An Act To Amend Title 25 Of The Delaware Code Relating To Manufactured Home Title Transfers.
The bill mandates that landlords adopt reasonable written standards regarding the resale or transfer of titles of manufactured homes, with a focus on compliance with safety, health, and housing codes rather than the age of the home. It also emphasizes that community owners cannot terminate leases due to the death of a tenant, ensuring that families are not abruptly displaced. These changes are intended to protect tenant rights and enhance security regarding homeownership in manufactured home communities.
Senate Bill 56 aims to amend Title 25 of the Delaware Code concerning the transfer of titles for manufactured homes within community settings. This legislative act is designed to streamline and clarify existing procedures for such transfers, which have historically contained ambiguities that allowed landlords to unduly prevent tenants from transferring leases or homes. Importantly, the updates promote the ability of tenants to pass their manufactured homes on to inheritors, thus preserving their investments, especially for families affected by the death of a tenant.
The sentiment towards SB56 is generally positive among advocates for tenant rights, who view the bill as a crucial step in protecting the ownership and transfer rights of manufactured home residents. Proponents appreciate the safeguards introduced, particularly in terms of inheritance and succession planning for homes. However, there may be concerns from some landlords regarding the reduced control they hold over lease transfers and the conditions under which homes can be sold within their communities.
Notable points of contention include the provision allowing landlords the right of first refusal should a tenant choose to sell their home. While landlords can exercise this right to purchase a home at a price slightly higher than the sale agreement, opponents argue that it may give landlords undue leverage over tenants. There remains a debate about finding a balance between tenant protections and landlord interests, particularly concerning the financial implications of these changes on both parties.