It’s estimated that about 10 million seniors live in mobile homes, according to an insurance industry survey. So it came as no surprise when the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) recently released a study on the quality, or lack thereof, found in mobile homes.
The AARP, the most vocal seniors’ lobby in Washington, D.C., has been pushing to tighten regulations on such manufactured housing for the last several years. The group feels consumers aren’t getting enough protection from shoddy construction and improper installation.
According to AARP’s most recent study, nearly eight in 10 mobile-home owners reported problems with either the construction, installation or other areas related to the use of their home.
Most of the problems concerned the interior fit and finish of the home. Many people had complaints about the windows and doors.
In the Midwest, three of four mobile-home owners reported problems with their homes, and 55 percent reported more than one problem.
Of course, problems are rife in new site-built homes, too. Just ask anyone who has had a house built for them.
But Roy Green, AARP lobbyist, said site-built homes typically have problems when they are 2 to 5 years old. Owners of mobile homes report most of their troubles in the first year, when the homes should be covered by warranties.
Just to be fair, the Manufactured Housing Institute, the industry trade association, says 88 percent of manufactured-home owners are satisfied with their homes. And while the group disagrees with the AARP’s call for tougher regulation, it says it is committed to consumer satisfaction and supports various initiatives toward that end.
Legislation is being considered that would change how manufactured homes are regulated. Right now, the AARP, along with the industry and other interested parties, is trying to hash out the best approach.
In the meantime, what should you do if you want to buy a mobile home? Here’s a little help.
Along with its survey, the AARP has published some tips for consumers on buying a mobile home. Kami Watson, spokesperson for the Manufactured Housing Institute, which publishes its own consumer hints, even agrees the following (abbreviated) AARP guidelines are pretty decent ideas.
– Every new mobile home should carry a HUD label, found on a red tag at the rear of the home. (The federal Department of Housing and Urban Development currently regulates manufactured houses.) You should also look for a data plate that carries the name of the manufacturer, serial number, design approval, heating specifications and wind resistance. If you can’t find these labels, don’t buy the unit.
– Hire a professional inspector, architect, builder or contractor to advise you.
– Keep in mind that mobile homes are sold by agents or dealers. To find a reputable one, contact your state agency on manufactured housing, the Better Business Bureau or the attorney general.
– Note that the sales price usually includes transportation and installation. Shop around at several dealers, because prices will vary. Get everything in writing.
– Be aware that installation can be critical. Check to see if the installer is licensed and then check with state agencies to see if there have been complaints lodged against that company. Hire a professional inspector to ensure the installation was properly handled.
– Find a manufacturer who offers a long-term warranty, more than a year, if possible. Most warranties don’t cover installation and transportation, big sources of problems. So buyer beware.
Have the installation company give you in writing any claims or promises regarding the installation. The installer is responsible for building the foundation, leveling your home, securing your home to the foundation, finishing your home and connecting utilities.
– Try resolving complaints with the seller or manufacturer first. Otherwise, complain to a state agency or directly to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development at 1-800-927-2891.
Resources
– For a complete copy of the AARP tips on buying a mobile home, check the group’s Web site at www.aarp.org. Or call 202-434-6030.
– The Manufactured Housing Institute has a brochure titled, “How to Buy a Manufactured Home.” You canorder a copy for 50 cents from Consumer Information Center, Department WWW, Pueblo, CO 81009. Ask for publication 338-F. Or call 1-888-878-3256.
– The information center is open for The Seasons at Glenview Place, a new rental continuing-care retirement community in Northbrook that plans to open this fall. It has 168 independent-living apartments and 54 assisted-living apartments. The information center is located at 1877 Waukegan Rd, Glenview. Call 847-729-5159.
– Victorian Village, 14303 S. Independence Way, Homer Township, near Lockport, has just opened its new assisted-living facility. Called the Victorian Inn, the building has a library, living room, fireplaces, dining room and activity room. A special wing is devoted to residents with Alzheimer’s and memory loss. The campus also includes 60 apartments designed for independent living that will open in October. Seventy-four town homes are being built and some are already occupied. Call 708-301-0800.
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Jane Adler is a Chicago-area freelance writer. If you have questions or information to share regarding housing for senior citizens, write to Senior Housing c/o Chicago Tribune Real Estate Section, 435 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611. Or e-mail adler@megsinet.net
