Mobile home parks are a way for property owners to maximize the number of units they can have for rent on their property. Anyone who’s considering a mobile home park or who has one should ensure they understand the applicable laws.
Remembering these three points can help you to minimize the chance of facing legal action from tenants.
1. Eviction of homeowners is challenging
It’s difficult to evict homeowners who are paying only lot rent. Management can’t refuse to renew a lease unless the homeowner hasn’t paid the lot rent or has violated park laws. It’s against the law to evict a mobile homeowner from a park just because their lease expired.
2. Time limits apply to renter-occupied units
Homeowners can’t be evicted for anything other than the seven reasons allowed under California law (CA Civil Code § 798.56). Homeowners must be provided with information about what rule was broken and how to correct it. If they correct it within 7 days after the notice, the notice is cured. If the homeowner is served with 3-seven day notices for the same rule violations within a 12-month period, then the park owner may be able to serve a 60-day notice on the fourth violation.
3. Permits to operate must be valid
Mobile home parks must have a valid Permit to Operate. If that permit is suspended for 30 consecutive days or more, the park can’t collect rent. Residents can’t be evicted for non-payment of rent during the time when the permit is officially suspended. Once the permit to operate is valid again, the park can’t try to collect the rent that would have been due during the suspension.
Owning a mobile home park isn’t an easy feat, but it can be profitable if it’s handled properly. Understanding the California laws surrounding these communities can make it easier to ensure you’re well within compliance. Having someone on your side who knows your community guidelines and the applicable laws can help you to protect your investment.
Disclaimer: This article is legal information and should not be seen as legal advice. You should consult with one of our MHP experts if you have any questions or are seeking an attorney.