HUD Code Updates for Manufactured Housing

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently announced the most extensive updates to the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards (commonly known as the HUD Code) in more than three decades. HUD Code updates take effect in September 2025 and include 90 new or revised standards with a goal to increase innovation and production of manufactured homes by eliminating the need for manufacturers to obtain alternative construction approvals for materials that already meet or exceed HUD standards. These revisions not only allow more manufactured homes to be built, but enable multi-resident structures (duplex, triplex, and quadplex homes) to be constructed under the HUD Code for the first time—providing potential homeowners with more affordable housing options.

Changes to the code took place as HUD marked the 50th anniversary of the passage of the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act last year. This federal law authorized HUD to establish nationally preemptive standards for the design and construction of all manufactured homes built in the U.S.

The Office of Manufactured Housing Programs (OMHP) administers the HUD Code, which remains the guiding federal standard for ensuring that manufactured housing remains safe, durable, and affordable.

OMHP’s responsibilities include:

• Enforcing standards directly or through state agencies that have partnered with HUD
• Inspecting factories and retailer lots
• Regulating installation standards for homes
• Administering a dispute resolution program for defects
• Establishing and collecting a fee for each home built
• Authorizing a certification label to be placed on each section of a home that meets HUD standards
• Pursuing a civil or criminal action for violations of the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act

HUD Code Updates

Key additions and updates to the HUD Code include:

• Allowing up to four dwelling units in single-family manufactured homes, while ensuring comprehensive fire safety for occupants
• Accessibility improvements—including modifications to standards for accessible showers to comply with national disability standards
• Updated standards to allow modern and energy-saving appliances—including gas-fired tankless water heaters
• Updated design standards allowing for more modern home features, while improving the quality and safety of homes

View the full list of the updates here.

In addition to updating the code, OMHP issued an industry-wide Alternative Construction Letter that provides the terms and conditions for manufacturers to gain approval of designs and build multi-unit manufactured homes immediately, instead of waiting for standards to become effective.

Industry Responses to HUD Code Updates

The Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI) is the national trade organization representing all segments of the factory-built housing industry. MHI’s response to HUD Code updates is as follows:

“The Manufactured Housing Institute (MHI) commends the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for its long-awaited amendments to the Federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards (HUD Code). As the nation navigates an affordable housing shortage, manufactured housing offers quality and affordability to Americans who need and deserve both. Today’s amendments support the industry’s continued efforts to innovate and bring attainable home ownership to people across the country.”

Mike Niebauer, Rent Manager Senior Relationship Manager and MHI National Communities Council (NCC) Board of Governors Member, also offers his perspective on HUD Code updates:

“Manufactured homes play a critical role in providing attainable housing solutions for many Americans. The recent updates to the HUD Code mark a significant step forward in ensuring these homes remain safe, durable, and innovative. By embracing modern standards and promoting the construction of multi-resident structures, we are not only expanding housing options but also addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in our communities. These changes reflect our commitment to improving the quality of life for residents while supporting the growth and evolution of the offsite housing industry.”

Conclusion

HUD’s mission is to create strong, sustainable, inclusive communities and quality affordable homes for all. Manufactured homes are an essential source of affordable housing. Supporting the production and availability of high-quality manufactured housing with updates to the HUD Code is an important component in solving the affordable housing crisis and for those seeking a comparable alternative to site-built homes.