Insuring Manufactured Homes: Everything You Need to Know

Manufactured homes or mobile homes have become an affordable and popular housing solution for many Americans. With the rising cost of traditional site-built homes, manufactured homes are a great alternative. However, just like any other home, manufactured homes need to be insured to protect the homeowners from unexpected events.

What is Manufactured Homes Insurance?

Manufactured home insurance is a type of policy designed to protect mobile homes from various risks such as fire, theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. The policy covers the structure of the home, personal belongings, and liability in case someone gets injured on the property.

Manufactured homes insurance is different from regular homeowners insurance since mobile homes are constructed differently and have different risks than site-built homes. As such, manufactured home insurance is tailored to meet the unique needs of mobile homeowners.

What Does Manufactured Homes Insurance Cover?

The coverage provided by manufactured homes insurance may vary depending on the policy and the insurance company. However, most policies cover the following:

What is Covered
Explanation
Dwelling coverage
Covers damages to the home’s structure due to covered events such as fire, windstorm, and hail.
Personal property coverage
Covers your personal belongings such as clothing, furniture, and electronics.
Liability coverage
Covers you in case of a lawsuit resulting from property damage or bodily injury that occurs in or around your home.
Additional living expenses
Covers the cost of temporary housing if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event.

It’s important to read the policy carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered.

What is Not Covered by Manufactured Homes Insurance?

Mobile home insurance typically doesn’t cover the following:

  • Earthquakes and floods
  • Wear and tear
  • Improper maintenance
  • Damage caused by pests
  • Damage caused by pets
  • Normal settling of the home

If you live in an area prone to earthquakes or floods, you may need to purchase additional coverage.

How Much Does Manufactured Homes Insurance Cost?

The cost of manufactured homes insurance varies depending on several factors such as:

  • The age and size of the home
  • The location of the home
  • The type of coverage you need
  • Your credit score
  • Your claims history

On average, manufactured homes insurance costs between $300 and $1,000 per year. However, the actual cost may be higher or lower depending on your individual circumstances.

How to Choose the Best Manufactured Homes Insurance Company

Choosing the right insurance company is important to ensure that you get the coverage you need at a reasonable price. Here are a few things to consider when choosing an insurance company:

Financial Strength

Make sure the insurance company has enough financial strength to pay out claims. You can check the financial rating of the insurance company with rating agencies such as AM Best, Moody’s, or S&P.

Coverage Options

Look for an insurance company that offers a variety of coverage options that meet your needs. Some insurance companies may offer discounts for bundling policies such as auto and home insurance.

Customer Service

Choose an insurance company that provides excellent customer service. You want an insurance company that is responsive, helpful, and easy to work with.

Reviews

Check online reviews of the insurance company to see what other customers are saying. This can give you a good idea of the company’s reputation and customer satisfaction.

FAQs

Do I need manufactured homes insurance?

Yes, manufactured homes insurance is necessary to protect your home and personal belongings from unforeseen events.

Can I get discounts on manufactured homes insurance?

Yes, some insurance companies offer discounts for installing safety features such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and security systems. You may also qualify for discounts if you have a good credit score, a claims-free history, or if you bundle policies.

What should I do if I need to make a claim?

If you need to make a claim, contact your insurance company as soon as possible. They will provide you with instructions on what to do next. Make sure to document the damage with photos or videos and keep all receipts related to the claim.

How often should I review my manufactured homes insurance policy?

You should review your policy at least once a year to make sure you still have sufficient coverage and to look for any changes or updates that may affect your policy.

Can I cancel my manufactured homes insurance policy?

Yes, you can cancel your policy at any time. However, be aware that you may be charged a cancellation fee, and you may lose any discounts you received for bundling policies.

In conclusion, manufactured homes insurance is essential to protect your home and personal belongings from unforeseen events. Take the time to research and choose the right insurance company that provides the coverage and service you need at a reasonable price.