In South Carolina, mobile homes are a popular option for people looking for affordable housing. While mobile homes have come a long way in terms of design and quality, many people are interested in knowing what the oldest mobile home is that can still be moved in the state.
The answer to this question is somewhat complicated, as there are many different factors that can impact whether or not a mobile home can be moved. In general, mobile homes that were built before the 1976 HUD Code went into effect are considered to be the oldest mobile homes that can be moved in SC. Now we will see some facts that you can rely on to determine whether or not your old mobile home can be moved.
Legal Issues and Moving a Mobile Home
In legal terms, you have to follow the HUD code and maintain the safety standards to determine the legality of moving your mobile home.
HUD Code and Safety Standards
The HUD Code was established in 1976 as a way to regulate the construction of mobile homes and ensure that they met certain safety and quality standards. Mobile homes built before this time were not subject to these regulations and may not be safe to move or live in.
However, even mobile homes built after 1976 may not be able to be moved if they have significant structural or other issues. Before moving any mobile home, it is important to have it inspected by a professional to determine whether it is safe to move and what kind of repairs may be needed.
Other Factors Affecting the Moving of an Older Mobile Home
In addition to age and condition, there are other factors that can impact whether or not a mobile home can be moved in South Carolina. These include:
Size and Weight
Mobile homes that are too large or heavy may not be able to be moved on South Carolina roads without a special permit. Additionally, some roads may not be able to support the weight of a mobile home, which could make it impossible to move.
Zoning Regulations
Before moving a mobile home, it is important to check local zoning regulations to ensure that it is legal to move the home to the desired location. Some areas may have restrictions on where mobile homes can be placed, which could impact whether or not the home can be moved.
Permits and Inspections
In South Carolina, moving a mobile home requires obtaining permits and passing inspections from various agencies. These permits and inspections can be time-consuming and expensive, so it is important to factor these costs into any decision to move a mobile home.
Moving an Older Mobile Home and the Moving Companies
Mobile homes have undergone significant improvements in quality and structure over the years, and the age of your mobile home will reflect this. While some moving companies may refuse to move older mobile homes, others may have no age limit as long as the structure is stable enough for transportation.
The condition of the mobile home is the deciding factor, as one built in 1970 may be in better shape than one built in 1990. Some companies have a policy of not moving any mobile home over 20 years old, but others may be more flexible.
Several factors must be considered before moving a mobile home. If the tongue is cut off, or the axles and wheels removed, they will need to be replaced, which can increase the cost. Older mobile homes may have damage to the floor, walls, and roof, which can worsen during transportation. Vinyl siding or a shingled roof may need to be removed to relocate, depending on the state’s regulations.
Before the move, your home will need to pass an inspection for electric connectivity in its original location and the new one. To ensure a smooth relocation, it’s best to have an experienced house mover inspect your mobile home. They can assess any structural damage that could pose a problem during transportation and provide solutions to fix the issues.
To Wrap It Up
Overall, while there is no specific age limit on the oldest mobile home that can be moved in South Carolina, there are many different factors that can impact whether or not a mobile home can be moved. If you are interested in moving a mobile home, it is important to do your research and work with professionals to ensure that the process is safe and legal.
