What are mobile, manufactured, and modular homes?

You may have heard different names used for your mobile home and homes like it over time. To make sure you're getting the most out of a mobile home insurance quote, you'll want to make sure that you're using the most accurate term to describe the type of house you live in.

How your home is classified plays an important role in the type of insurance you need to protect your home and belongings. Before you get a mobile home insurance quote, you should determine if you have a mobile home (which, as explained below may also be called a manufactured home) or a modular home. For modular home, you need to get a quote for a standard homeowners policy.

The Difference Between Mobile and Manufactured Homes

Manufactured homes and mobile homes are regulated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The only difference between the two types of homes is the date they were built. According to HUD, a factory-built home prior to June 15, 1976 is a mobile home and one built after June 15, 1976 is a manufactured home.

Both manufactured homes and mobile homes have several common traits:

  • Usually built in a factory and taken to the property where they are set up
  • May be built on a metal frame instead of a crawlspace or basement
  • Sometimes have tie downs in place of a permanent foundation

The Difference Between Modular Home and Mobile Homes

Modular homes and mobile homes are also built in factories and then installed on site. From there the similarities start to fade. Modular homes must follow local building codes in the state and county they're installed. Panelized homes also fall under this category. Modular homes tend to have a few characteristics in common:

  • Often delivered in 2 or more pieces
  • Typically built on crawlspaces or basements
  • Usually look like traditional “stick-built” homes in both size and features

Still not sure?

Look for a tag. Mobile and manufactured homes typically require a tag with renewal each year because they can be moved or relocated.

Our counselors are also always more than happy to help you figure out what kind of insurance is right for you, you can reach them at (800) 841-3005.

Please note:

The above is meant as general information and as general policy descriptions to help you understand the different types of coverages. These descriptions do not refer to any specific contract of insurance and they do not modify any definitions, exclusions or any other provision expressly stated in any contracts of insurance. We encourage you to speak to your insurance representative and to read your policy contract to fully understand your coverages.