Common Mobilehome Misconceptions
Mobilehomes are a great option for families looking into moving somewhere with more affordable housing. They also come with a lot of perks like community amenities, convenient locations, and fewer restrictions than what you may be used to from a typical apartment complex or Homeowners Association.
However, they also can sometimes come with the perception of being less safe than a traditional neighborhood. Despite the many regulation improvements that have been made over the years, many misconceptions may have you second-guessing signing a lease. Here are four of the most common myths associated with mobilehome safety.
Myth #1: Mobilehomes are Not Built to Last
Due to largely being made in a factory, many assume that mobilehomes are more likely to depreciate in quality over time, even with many mobilehome parks maintaining residency for decades. This is a very common misconception, and research of these homes has continued to show that properties constructed in accordance with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) building codes that are properly maintained over time can last for decades — sometimes up to 55 years or more.
Myth #2: Mobilehomes are More Susceptible to Weather Damage
Tornadoes, wind or rainstorms can affect and damage any kind of building, but many considering living in a mobilehome are often concerned about the disproportionate amount of damage that may be caused to their home during inclement weather. While this is a valid concern for any tenant or homeowner, HUD has made several standards updates over the last 20 years that require the use of weather protection on exterior walls and other foundational structures of mobilehomes. Along with this, manufacturers are consistently working on improving the structural integrity of these buildings.
Myth #3: Mobilehomes are Fire Hazards
One of the most common misconceptions about mobilehomes is that you are more likely to be in a home-consuming fire than you would in another style of house. To combat this, the HUD building codes include provisions for fire safety, and when followed can help these properties provide the proper protection against fire. California also has a set of codes that manufacturers must adhere to for mobilehomes - including flame spread limitations, firestopping, and the installation of fire sprinkler systems.
Myth #4: Mobilehome Parks are More Dangerous than Other Neighborhoods
It’s not uncommon for some to assume that mobilehome parks are inherently more dangerous or have higher crime rates than other neighborhoods. However, a study from the University of Illinois-Chicago shows that there is not a statistically significant difference between the crime rates in mobilehome parks and adjacent blocks or other residential neighborhoods. This study analyzed property and violent crime rates in these three different areas, as well as the demographics of the people in the neighborhoods in order to better understand the perceived danger.
The findings of this study showed that what are often considered the strongest predictors of violent and property crimes in a specific area had no significant effect on the rate of these crimes. Furthermore, it enforced the idea that the presence or expansion of these communities does not increase the likelihood of crime in a specific area.
You Have a Right to Home Safety - We Can Help.
No matter how big your home, you have a right to a safe living environment. Despite the improvements made to mobilehome parks over the years, there is still a possibility that negligent conditions are present. If you or a loved one has been affected by regulation violations from your park owner, contact Peters, Habib, McKenna, Juhl-Rhodes & Cardoza, LLP today. We are committed to helping you live in the safest and healthiest environment possible and will work to achieve maximum compensation for your case.
Call (530) 342-3593 to schedule a consultation with our attorneys.