HUD Proposal Could Expand Manufactured Housing Options

A proposed federal rule change could open the door to new types of manufactured housing construction and potentially increase the supply of lower-cost homes across the country.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development announced on June 12 that it is proposing updates to federal manufactured housing regulations that would allow upper-story sections of certain manufactured homes to be transported and installed without a permanent chassis.

According to HUD, the change would provide manufacturers with greater flexibility to design and construct multi-story manufactured homes while reducing some construction and transportation constraints.

“America needs more housing, and manufactured housing is part of the solution,” HUD Secretary Scott Turner said in announcing the proposal.

Manufactured homes are built to federal construction and safety standards known as the HUD Code and are often viewed as one of the nation’s more affordable housing options.

HUD officials say the proposal would support innovation in manufactured housing design, help lower production costs, and expand housing choices for consumers.

More than 20 million Americans currently live in manufactured homes, according to HUD.

The proposal comes as communities across Virginia and the nation continue to face housing affordability challenges. In Loudoun County, discussions surrounding housing supply, workforce housing, and development have become recurring topics in local government and planning debates.

While the proposed rule would not directly affect local zoning regulations, supporters argue it could eventually increase the availability of lower-cost housing options by giving manufacturers more flexibility in how homes are designed and built.

The proposed rule has been published in the Federal Register and will undergo a public comment period before any final action is taken.