Question:
“I just received notice that my rent is going up. How much can the park raise it, and what can I do about it?”
– David R., Bakersfield, CA
Answer:
Sorry to hear about the rent increase – it’s something many mobile home park residents face.
First, let’s talk about what’s allowed. Rent increases are typically governed by state and local laws, so the amount can vary. Some states have rent control measures that limit how much a park can raise rent within a certain period. Other states do not have such protections, meaning park owners can raise rent by a significant amount if there are no local restrictions.
If you’re unsure, start by checking your lease or rental agreement. Some agreements specify rent increase policies, including timing and amounts, while others simply follow state guidelines. Reviewing the fine print can clarify what you can expect in your community.
You should reach out to your park management and ask them about the reason for the increase. In many cases, it’s related to higher costs for utilities, property taxes or general maintenance. But having a conversation with them can open a dialogue about any flexibility in the increase or the timing.
You can also gather other residents and talk as a group. Many parks have resident associations or committees that work collectively to address rent issues and might be able to negotiate better terms than an individual.
If you’re in a state or city without rent control, look for local housing advocacy groups that can provide guidance. Some may even help with organizing a formal group to negotiate with park management.
In rare cases, you may have grounds to legally challenge the increase if it feels excessive or discriminatory, but this would typically require consulting an attorney with expertise in housing law.
Overview:
- Check your lease agreement for specifics about rent increase policies.
- Reach out to park management to ask about the increase.
- Consider a resident group to negotiate collectively.
- Look for housing advocacy groups that may offer additional support.
- Consult a housing attorney if you feel the increase is unjust.
I live in Fairview, Oregon. My trailer park has been raising the rent and is now very high. I found out that many people in the same park as I are paying $400 to $500 a month less than me. I have lived here longer than most everyone. I found out that a rental agreement came out some years ago when I was overseas working that made sure that the rent didn’t go up or very little. The park manager has never let me sign it since I came back from abroad. Since I now realize the reason why the manger won’t let me sign is because she can’t raise my rent, I asked her to give me that agreement that expires in 2033. When she refused, I told her I want the reason in writing. Nothing from her on that. I need to know what I can do about this. The rent is killing me and don’t know how much more I can give when it gets higher next time.
Thank you for sharing, Morgan. This sounds incredibly frustrating.
It is indeed concerning that your park manager has not allowed you to sign the agreement that may have protected you from these increases. We’d recommend the following:
First, document and keep records of as much of your communications with your landlord as you can, past and present, especially regarding your request for the lease agreement and their response.
Next, you should reach out to organizations that may be able to help. Local legal aid organizations or tenants rights groups may be available in Fairview. There are also statewide organizations in Oregon like the Community Alliance of Tenants, the Oregon State Tenants Association, and Oregon Housing and Community Services. These organizations can provide guidance on your rights under Oregon’s Mobile Home Park Landlord-Tenant Act, and may also be able to assist in negotiating with the park management or taking legal action if necessary.
You might also consider reaching out to other residents within in your community who might be facing similar issues. There is strength in numbers, especially if you need to build a case against the park’s policies.
It’s important to advocate for yourself and ensure that you are treated fairly under the law. We hope you find a resolution soon, and please keep us updated on your progress.