FAQs About Remodeling A Mobile Home On Someone Else’s Land

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You have dreams of giving your mobile home a new look, but you wonder how that will pan out. The home you live on is on someone else’s land.

Featured image for "FAQs About Remodeling A Mobile Home On Someone Else's Land" blog post

There are several things on your honey-do list. You want to get a new deck up, put some fresh paint on those worn out walls, and add on an extra bedroom.

But can you up and do that? And whose responsibility is it to flip the bill for mobile home remodels?

These and other questions about remodeling a mobile home on someone else’s land are at the forefront of today’s discussion.

FAQs About Remodeling A Mobile Home On Someone Else’s Land

As you’ll see in the subsequent paragraphs, it’s not exactly a cut and dry topic. The ins and outs of remodeling a mobile home on someone else’s land are contingent on a variety of factors. Every situation is different. But we hope this guide will be just that – a guide to help you find some clarity on your specific situation as a tenant on someone else’s land.

Do I need permission to remodel the mobile home I live in?

Well, it depends. If your mobile home is not your own, then you’ll definitely need to refer to the lease agreement. Your landlord should have laid out the expectations set forth by both parties involved in the lease agreement – him/herself and yourself.

Should you find the lease is unclear as to what you can/can’t do or you simply think you may have a chance at an exception, don’t worry. Send a courteous note to your landlord, requesting permission. A courteous tone can go a long way but don’t expect that to guarantee permission to do as you wish.

If the mobile home is your own, but the land it sits on is not yours then things may be a bit different. Should the remodel you wish to do not affect the land your home sits on, then chances are it’s OK to press forward without the landlord’s permission.

Approved stamp

However, if your mobile home remodeling plans affect the land then you may need to write a note to your landlord seeking out permission. (Examples of this entail adding a room addition, putting up a fence, etc.)

In doubt? It may be wise to reach out to your local civil government if you’re unsure. Every locale will have its own laws that serve the best interest of both landlord and tenant. Don’t hesitate to call and seek counsel.

Additionally, beware that a phone call to your local HUD Code Agency is a good idea. You need to be sure that your remodel does not require permits or inspections. It would be a disappointment to press forward with your remodel only to find later that it must be torn down or that your home has been compromised due to lack of permit and inspection.

When you call, make it clear that although it’s your home, you have the mobile home on someone else’s land.

Point is, you can save yourself much grief and disappointment by making a few phone calls.

Should the landlord pay for the remodel if it’s his/her mobile home?

This depends on the nature of the remodel. Again, you’ll need to refer to the lease for the exact nature of the responsibilities agreed upon. If the remodel’s nature is that of for the health and safety of the tenant, then you can likely count on the landlord taking responsibility.

On the other hand, if you’re expecting to see granite counters installed on your landlord’s dime, then think again.

Look into your locale’s laws for mobile home tenant protection if you’re dealing with a dangerous living situation and an apathetic landlord.

What are some remodel ideas I can probably do, even with strict remodel rules?

There are several things you can do to your own mobile home even if the landlord’s property rules are strict.

For one, painting the interior of your mobile home can really freshen up the place. A new coat of paint will take your home from dingy to welcoming in a day.

A man painting the interior of a house

Flooring is another welcome option. You can pull up that old, musty carpet and replace it with something fresh and new. Laminate flooring, hardwood flooring, or just getting some new carpet will make any home look nice in a heartbeat.

Light fixtures, doors, and new furniture can also go far in giving your home that fresh look you so desire.

What if the mobile home isn’t mine, but the landlord wants to remodel? He/she asked me to evacuate, but I don’t want to for various reasons.

Your landlord cannot simply evict you at whim. There is a process involved, and it’s your duty to fact check with your state’s laws.

Typically, once a lease agreement is signed, a landlord can only come into your home to deal with necessary repairs, emergencies, or with a court order.

And yet, it is OK for the landlord to ask and work something out with you to get his/her remodel plans done. This will vary from situation to situation.

Maintain peace even if you don’t get what you want

Having a mobile home on someone else’s land can come with its own setbacks, but hopefully, you have a great relationship with your landlord. Even if they don’t approve of your remodel ideas, the important thing is that you can both live in peace.

If you’re looking to set up a mobile home on someone else’s property, check out some helpful thoughts we have in store.

About Dan Leighton

Dan Leighton has been working in the mobile home industry for over a decade. His focus has been on sales and customer relations - making sure each person in the transaction is comfortable and fully transparent. He has a wife and one son. Dan continues to look for innovative ways to help both sellers and parks get the most bang for their buck.





Written by Dan Leighton

Dan Leighton has been working in the mobile home industry for over a decade. His focus has been on sales and customer relations - making sure each person in the transaction is comfortable and fully transparent. He has a wife and one son. Dan continues to look for innovative ways to help both sellers and parks get the most bang for their buck.

May 23, 2018

 

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