FEMA Manufactured Housing Units (MHUs) are property of the government, and all occupants living in them must follow certain guidelines for their own protection and the protection of their property. Below are some frequently asked questions regarding these guidelines.
Q: I just moved into my FEMA MHU. Is there anything I need to pay for?
A: If your MHU is located on your property, you are responsible for paying all utility charges, including deposits and any other administrative fees. You are also responsible for any charges associated with the installation or usage of phone lines, cable and/or internet. If your MHU is on a group or commercial site, you do not have to pay for utilities, but you may still be responsible for phone, cable, and/or internet charges.
Q: I want cable and internet in my MHU. How should I get them installed?
A: You can start by calling your preferred provider to see if they install cable and internet in mobile homes. If they do, then they are authorized to drill holes necessary for running cable in accordance with their normal installation procedure. If your provider charges an
installation fee, you are responsible for paying it.
Q: Can my cable provider install a satellite dish or receiver on my MHU?
A: Satellite dishes and receivers cannot be installed on your MHU. Your provider must install the dish or receiver using a separate, temporary pole. You are responsible for any additional fees associated with the installation.
Q: Does my MHU come with a security system?
A: FEMA MHUs do not come equipped with a security system. If you need a security system installed, you must contact FEMA for written approval prior to obtaining your MHU.
NOTE: Smoking is not allowed in FEMA manufactured housing.
Q: Can I paint my MHU or hang picture frames?
A: You cannot paint or otherwise alter the interior or exterior appearance of your MHU. However, you are allowed to make small adjustments that would qualify as normal wear-and-tear, such as putting small nails in the wall to hang picture frames.
Q: Can I landscape around my MHU?
A: If your MHU is on your property, you can landscape around it. If your MHU is on a group or commercial site, or if it extends into a property you do not own, you must contact FEMA for written approval prior to landscaping.
Q: Who can stay with me in my MHU?
A: Anyone named in your FEMA license agreement can stay in your MHU with you. With FEMA’s approval, you may be able to add or remove occupants from your license agreement within seven days of signing.
Q: Can I keep my pets in my MHU?
A: You can keep up to two domesticated animals in your MHU. They must wear ID tags at all times and be up to date on their shots. Pets cannot be left unattended outside of the unit and must be leashed at all times. No pens or kennels are allowed outside of the MHU. You are responsible for cleaning up after your pet, both inside and outside of your MHU.
Q: Are any items or substances prohibited in my MHU?
A: Any items or substances related to illegal or criminal activity are prohibited in your MHU. Additionally, you cannot store or use grills, fire pits, fireworks, propane tanks or other combustible substances inside or outside of your MHU.
Q: What happens if I lose power to my MHU?
A: If you lose power, cable or internet to your MHU, call your provider for assistance.
Q: What happens if there is an issue with the MHU or an appliance?
A: We have a periodic monthly inspection program to make sure the stove, fridge, and heating/air conditioning system work properly, the unit sits level on its blocks, pipes have no leaks, and the doors do not jam, among other things. If you have issues with an appliance or the unit, call the maintenance number: 800-335-8546.
Q: Will I get a washer and dryer?
A: While washers and dryers can be hooked in to your MHU, you will have to purchase or provide the appliances yourself.
Q: Do I have any other responsibilities regarding my MHU?
A: Part of the FEMA license agreement for your MHU requires you to search for long-term housing options. While you may be able to recertify for your MHU beyond the dates originally specified in your license agreement, you may need to surrender your MHU back to FEMA if other long-term housing is available.