Can the Owner of a California Mobile-Home Park Force Me to Move Out?

Mobile homes offer an affordable housing option for many people in California. However, the relationship between mobile home owners and mobile home park owners can sometimes be complex. One question that often arises is whether the owner of a mobile home park can force a mobile home owner to move out. This article will explore this issue in detail, providing valuable insights for mobile home owners in California.

Understanding the Mobile Home Residency Law

The Mobile Home Residency Law (MRL) in California provides protections for mobile home owners who rent space in a mobile home park. Under the MRL, a park owner cannot arbitrarily or discriminatorily ask a mobile home owner to move out. There are specific legal reasons that a park owner can use to terminate a mobile home owner’s tenancy, and these are outlined in the MRL.

Legal Reasons for Termination of Tenancy

According to the MRL, a park owner can terminate a mobile home owner’s tenancy for the following reasons:

• Non-payment of rent or other charges
• Violation of laws or rules related to mobile homes within a reasonable time after receiving a notice of the violation
• Conduct that constitutes a substantial annoyance to other residents
• Conviction for prostitution or a felony controlled substance offense committed on the premises
• Failure to comply with reasonable rules and regulations of the park

Notice and Eviction Process

If a park owner wants to terminate a mobile home owner’s tenancy for one of the legal reasons, they must provide a written notice. The notice must state the reason for termination and give the mobile home owner a chance to correct the issue if it’s correctable. If the mobile home owner does not correct the issue within the given time, the park owner can file an unlawful detainer lawsuit to evict the mobile home owner.

What if the Park Owner Wants to Use the Land for a Different Purpose?

If a park owner wants to change the use of the land, they must follow a specific process. This includes providing a six-month or one-year notice to the mobile home owners and the local public entity. The park owner must also provide a report on the impact of the conversion on the displaced residents. In some cases, the park owner may have to pay for the relocation costs of the mobile home owners.

Conclusion

While a park owner can’t arbitrarily force a mobile home owner to move out, there are legal reasons that can lead to termination of tenancy. Mobile home owners should familiarize themselves with the MRL and their rights to ensure they are protected. If you find yourself facing eviction, it’s advisable to seek legal advice to understand your options.