Are there check list when buying old manufactured house?

[Kevin Kim]

Hi, 

We're going to buy a property in un-incorporated San Bernadino county which has two old manufactured houses which we want to fix and rent. (one is after 1977, and the other is pre 1975)

I wonder if there is any check list that we can refer to before buying or before renting out old manufactured house, like below

     1. check if there are noon-permitted room or structure.

     2. remove if there is wood-stove

     3. .....

    4. .....

I heard that sprinkler system is mandatory for new manufactured house, and I wonder if it apply to old manufactured house too. 

If it is mandatory and if we don't install it and if our tenant got injured by fire, then I think it can be big problem. 

I'm sure regulation and codes which regulate manufactured house might have been updated many times, and I wonder if we need to fix the old manufactured house up to updated codes. If it is mandatory, then I think it will cost too much to apply all those updated regulation and codes. 

Thank you. 

[Kathy Johnson]

How sure are you of the manufacture date of the mobilehomes?  Check for aluminum wiring in the older one because that can be a fire hazard.   Another thing to look at is the condition of the floors and windows.  The older windows become worn and drafty with use/age.  Are the original furnaces still in?  They may be in need of maintenance or replacement.  Are the mobiles on city water and sewer or will you be dealing with septic tanks?

Also, watch for signs of leaky roof.

[Eliott Elias]

5. Do not buy mobile homes as rentals. 

[Vanessa S.]

Quote from @Eliott Elias:

5. Do not buy mobile homes as rentals. 

 Out of curiousity, why do you say this? Wondering what the reasoning is. Thanks in advance! :)