Challenges of Getting an Engineering Certification for Your Manufactured Home
Selling a manufactured home can be a rewarding venture, but it often comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to obtaining the necessary engineering certifications. Meeting these requirements is crucial to ensure the home’s safety, compliance, and marketability. Here, we’ll delve into some common issues that sellers might face during the certification process and provide insights on addressing them.
Improper Anchors
One of the fundamental aspects of a manufactured home’s structural integrity is its anchorage system. Improper tie downs or anchors can lead to instability, making the home vulnerable to environmental stresses like windstorms. To overcome this challenge, sellers should engage a certified engineer to evaluate the anchoring system. Rectifying any anchorage faults not only facilitates the certification process but also enhances the home’s safety features. During the sales process, conventional loans may not require tie-downs, but FHA/VA loans mandate a minimum of 2 Minute Man LLBS tie-downs for double-wide’s and 2 Minute Man LLBS tie-downs plus 4 corner anchors for single-wide’s.
Missing HUD Labels
The HUD (Housing and Urban Development) label is an official verification that the home complies with federal safety standards. Missing labels can stall the certification process and deter potential buyers. Sellers should trace back the original documentation or contact the manufacturer. In cases where recovery is challenging, consulting with a specialist familiar with HUD guidelines can provide alternative solutions.
Damaged Vapor Barrier
A vapor barrier is essential for preventing moisture infiltration that can lead to mold and structural damage. If this barrier is compromised, it affects the home’s livability and long-term preservation. To address this, it’s important to replace or repair the damaged sections promptly. This not only aids in certification but also reassures buyers of the home’s durability.
Damaged Piers
Piers provide the necessary support for a manufactured home, and any damage can jeopardize the foundation’s stability. Identifying and repairing or replacing damaged piers is critical before the certification process. An engineer or foundation specialist can offer guidance on ensuring the piers meet the required standards.
Structures Attached to Mobile Homes Missing Structural Supports
Additional structures, such as decks or porches, enhance the usability of a manufactured home but must be properly supported to ensure safety. Many homeowners attach decks directly to manufactured homes. However, most manufactured homes are not engineered to support additional structures. If an engineer’s inspection reveals that structures are attached to the home and it was not designed to carry the added load, additional supports will be required to ensure proper stability.
Inadequate Venting
Manufactured homes must have 1 square foot of venting for every 150 square feet of space. Many homeowners cover their vents to prevent rodents or other animals from accessing the area beneath the home. However, to obtain an engineering certification, maintaining the required 1 square foot of venting per 150 square feet is mandatory.
Conclusion
Obtaining an engineering certification is a pivotal step in the process of selling a manufactured home. By proactively addressing issues like improper anchors, missing HUD labels, damaged vapor barriers, compromised piers, inadequate structural supports and Inadequate venting, sellers can streamline the certification process, enhance the home’s appeal, and provide peace of mind to potential buyers. The investment in resolving these issues not only facilitates a smoother sale but also contributes to the overall safety and integrity of the home in the long run. If you need to obtain an engineering cert in Arizona contact BBaca Engineering, LLC Phoenix FHA Home Commercial Inspectors and Engineers. And, if you need a contractor to fix any of these issues contact DIGN Homes.