HUD installation standards

The federal standards

States that run their own installation programs must adopt standards at least as protective as the federal model standards (24 CFR 3285.1).

Where a state has no qualifying program, HUD registers installer trainers and licenses installers itself, per HUD's Office of Manufactured Housing Programs.

In HUD-administered states an applicant needs 12 hours of training, at least 4 of them on the federal installation standards and program rules (24 CFR 3286.205).

Federal applicants also need experience, such as 1,800 hours installing manufactured homes, or an allowed equivalent.

Renewing a federal installer license takes 8 hours of continuing education in each 3-year license period.

Federal license applicants must show insurance plus a surety bond or letter of credit (24 CFR 3286.207).

Every new home must come with installation instructions approved by HUD or a DAPIA (24 CFR 3285.2).

Sources: Model Installation Standards; HUD-administered states; Federal installer training; Insurance and bond; Manufacturer instructions

Checks before installation

Before installing a new home, the installer verifies that its wind, roof load and thermal zones suit the site.

A home may not go into a thermal zone colder than the one it was designed for, as shown on its heating and cooling certificate.

Any foundation detail or plan that differs from the standard pier and footing tables must be designed and certified by a registered engineer or architect.

Sources: 24 CFR 3285.103; 24 CFR 3285.301

Who answers for the work in Texas

In Texas the installer gives the owner a written warranty that the installation met all state standards, and claims must be made in writing within two years.

For a used home, the buyer is responsible for preparing the site; for a new home, the responsible installer is.

In Texas, only a licensed installer may install, relevel or change any part of a home's foundation.

Source: TDHCA, Statement of Ownership FAQ

Closing up the home

Installation includes the exterior close up: removing transit plastic, weatherproofing disturbed seams and sealing roof holes.

Source: 24 CFR 3285.801