Permanent Foundations For Mobile Homes - HUD 7584 PFGMH Manufactured Home Inspections Guide

When you buy (or sell) a manufactured / mobile home,A manufactured mobile home foundation that does not
many times the loan involved in real estate transactionmeet the intent of the PFGMH is considered
will either be an FHA or VA loan.  However, FHA andnon-compliant, and one that does meet the intent of
VA will only fund the loan if you can prove that thethe PFGMH is considered compliant.  Only a
foundation under the home is a permanent foundation.professional engineer licensed in the state of where
But what is a "permanent foundation" and where do Ithe home is located can make this determination.
find it's proper definition?  Well, in HUD PublicationIn its most simplistic definition, a permanent foundation
7584, is where you will find its definition.  The definitionwill generally consist of a skirting to keep out vermin
is quite extensive and geared, mainly, towardsand water, footings and piers to support the home
professional engineers.from gravity loads (such as snow and live loads),
The HUD 7584 publication is also called the HUDanchorage to resist lateral loads such as high winds or
Permanent Foundation Guide for Manufacturedan earthquake, and other considerations.
Homes, or PFGMH.  It is published by the UnitedThe reason why a professional engineer is required to
States department of Housing and Urbandetermine whether it is permanent or not, is because
Development (HUD).  This 400 page manual isof the safety issues involved with a structure that
intended for new construction of manufactured homehouses people.  Professional engineers have the
permanent foundations. If you have an existingtraining and educational background to determine if the
foundation and are in need of a permanent foundationfoundation is safe and habitable, and also "permanent"
certification, then the existing permanent foundationas defined by HUD.
shall meet the intent of the PFGMH.