Setting up a manufactured home after the move
The foundation must sit on firm, undisturbed soil or on fill compacted to at least 90 percent of its maximum density, to prevent settling.
Preparing the site
Grass, roots, twigs and wood scraps must be removed where the footings will go.
The soil type and how much weight it can bear must be determined before the foundation is built and the home anchored, by soil tests, local soil records or other allowed methods.
If the space under the home will be skirted, the ground must be covered with a vapor retarder of at least six mil polyethylene, except in arid regions with dry soil.
Before a new home is installed, the installer must find out whether the site is in a special flood hazard area on the local flood map.
Source: Firm or compacted soil
Water, drain, gas and electrical hookups
If local water pressure to the home is over 80 psi, a pressure-reducing valve must be installed.
An accessible, labeled shutoff valve must be installed between the water supply and the home's inlet.
Water line crossovers joined during installation must be protected from freezing.
Drain lines generally must slope at least a quarter inch per foot.
The gas system must be inspected and tested for leaks once the home is set up on the site.
A multi-section home with wiring in more than one section needs electrical crossover connections to join the sections.
Source: Water pressure
Leveling, close-up and final checks
A home counts as level when adjacent piers differ by no more than 1/4 inch and the outside doors and windows open without binding.
Smoke alarms must be tested as part of the setup, following the alarm maker's instructions.
Siding joints and seams disturbed during the move must be made weatherproof again.
The plastic sheeting that covered the walls for transport must be fully removed before the siding goes on.
In HUD-run states the licensed installer should get every permit state or local law requires.
Sources: When a home counts as level; Permits
State rules
In Texas only a licensed installer may install or relevel a manufactured home or change any part of its foundation; owners may not do it themselves.
In Texas, when a home is moved, the new installation is subject to inspection.
Source: Texas: only licensed installers
Common questions
What does mobile home setup include?
The foundation must sit on firm, undisturbed soil or on fill compacted to at least 90 percent of its maximum density, to prevent settling.