TIPS
TO REMEMBER
- On
March 22, 1977, HUD issued a rule requiring home manufacturers
to provide a consumer manual with each home that enters the
first stage of production on, or after, June 30, 1977. While
there is no precise format for the manual, the purpose of
the rule is to assure that home purchasers are given information
concerning proper home maintenance, avoidance of potential
safety hazards, and remedies available under the National
Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act
of 1974.
-
This information must be presented in a clear and understandable
manner, with an index to enable homeowners to readily locate
any information provided as part of the home "package."
- The
manual must cover the following topics: an explanation of
the Act, the federal home construction and safety standards,
and the remedies available to the consumer.
-
Also, it must state the location of the dataplate and explain
the significance of the information printed on it; list the
approved or conditionally approved state administrative agencies;
and indicate that any questions concerning the Act or consumer's
rights may be directed to the local, or Washington, D.C.,
HUD office. Also, the manual must state: whether, or not,
a written warranty covering the home is provided, and describe
its terms, conditions, and exclusions; recommended procedures
for setting up and anchoring; explanations and cautions about
fire, wind and systems safety factors; proper maintenance,
when specialized knowledge or skills are required; factors
to be considered when relocating the home, recommending professional
assistance; and advice to consider for acquiring adequate
and appropriate insurance from an insurance company of choice.
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