[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 79 (Tuesday, April 26, 2005)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 21498-21559]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-7497]



[[Page 21497]]

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Part II





Department of Housing and Urban Development





-----------------------------------------------------------------------



24 CFR Parts 3280 and 3285



Model Manufactured Home Installation Standards; Proposed Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 79 / Tuesday, April 26, 2005 / 
Proposed Rules  

[[Page 21498]]


-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT

24 CFR Parts 3280 and 3285

[Docket No. FR-4928-P-01; HUD-2005-0006]
RIN 2502-AI25


Model Manufactured Home Installation Standards

AGENCY: Office of the Assistant Secretary for Housing--Federal Housing 
Commissioner, HUD.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This proposed rule would establish new Model Manufactured Home 
Installation Standards (Model Installation Standards) for the 
installation of new manufactured homes and would include standards for 
the completion of certain aspects necessary to join all sections of 
multi-section homes. The National Manufactured Housing Construction and 
Safety Standards Act of 1974 requires the Secretary to develop and 
establish Model Installation Standards after receiving proposed 
installation standards from the Manufactured Housing Consensus 
Committee (MHCC). HUD received and reviewed the MHCC's recommended 
model installation standards and is in agreement with a significant 
majority of the recommendations. Following discussion with the MHCC at 
its August 2004 meeting, HUD provided the MHCC with a draft of this 
proposed rule establishing the Model Installation Standards. During 
three ensuing conference calls with the MHCC and its subcommittee on 
installation, HUD received additional feedback and comment from the 
MHCC and its members that were considered for inclusion in this 
proposed rule.
    Within this proposed rule, HUD is providing its proposed Model 
Installation Standards, and a detailed summary of its recommended 
changes to the MHCC's proposal. The proposed rule also incorporates 
certain amendments to definitions contained in the Manufactured Home 
Construction and Safety Standards (MHCSS) that are affected by 
definitions provided in the Model Installation Standards. HUD is 
specifically requesting comment on proposed installation standards 
applicable to completing work and conducting adequate inspections 
necessary to join all sections of a multi-section manufactured home, as 
well as many other areas of manufactured home installation that may 
need consideration before final publication.

DATES: Comments Due Date: June 27, 2005.

ADDRESSES: Interested persons are invited to submit comments regarding 
this rule to the Regulations Division, Office of General Counsel, Room 
10276, Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 Seventh Street, 
SW., Washington, DC 20410-0500. Interested persons may also submit 
comments electronically through either:
     The Federal eRulemaking Portal at: http://www.regulations.gov; or
     The HUD electronic Web site at: http://www.epa.gov/feddocket. Follow the link entitled ``View Open HUD Dockets.''
    Commenters should follow the instructions provided on that site to 
submit comments electronically. Facsimile (FAX) comments are not 
acceptable. In all cases, communications must refer to the docket 
number and title. All comments and communications submitted will be 
available, without revision, for public inspection and copying between 
8 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays at the above address. Copies are also 
available for inspection and downloading at http://www.epa.gov/feddocket.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: William W. Matchneer III, 
Administrator, Office of Manufactured Housing Programs, Room 9164, 
Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 Seventh Street, SW., 
Washington, DC 20410; telephone (202) 708-6401 (this is not a toll free 
number). Persons with hearing or speech impairments may access this 
number via TTY by calling the toll free Federal Information Relay 
Service at 1-800-877-8389.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

I. Background

    On December 27, 2000, the National Manufactured Housing 
Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C. 5401-5426) 
(the Act) was amended by the Manufactured Housing Improvement Act of 
2000, which, among other things, provided for the creation of the 
Manufactured Housing Consensus Committee (MHCC) and established new 
requirements pertaining to the installation of new manufactured homes. 
One of the provisions of the Act requires the Secretary to establish 
Model Installation Standards for new manufactured homes. The Act also 
gave the MHCC responsibility to develop and submit proposed model 
manufactured home installation standards. The MHCC recommendations were 
to be submitted to HUD not later than 18 months after the initial 
appointment of all committee members. The MHCC held its first meeting 
in August 2002 and began work on its installation standards 
recommendations by reviewing the already developed consensus standard 
National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) 225, with draft updates 
maintained by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) through 
September 2002. Subsequently, the MHCC approved proposed installation 
standards and submitted them to HUD on December 18, 2003. HUD reviewed 
the recommendations and developed a draft proposed rule that was based 
upon those recommendations. Following its review of the draft proposed 
rule, the MHCC provided additional recommendations to HUD on September 
3, 2004.
    The complete MHCC recommendations relating to model manufactured 
home installation standards, including the transmittal letter to HUD 
and the MHCC's description of its installation standards development 
assumptions and principles, can be found on the Web site maintained by 
the NFPA, the administering organization for the MHCC, at http://www.nfpa.org/PDF/MHCCFinalChangesInstallStd.pdf?src=nfpa.
    At the MHCC's meeting on August 10, 2004, HUD presented orally and 
in writing an overview of its initial response to the MHCC's 
recommendations. The most significant change to the MHCC proposal 
related to the removal of several MHCC-suggested installation standards 
for on-site completion of multi-section homes, which HUD deemed to be 
related to construction and assembly of the home rather than 
installation. Upon evaluating further comments received from the MHCC, 
and based upon its own review, HUD incorporated a majority of the 
applicable ``close up'' standards proposed by the MHCC in this proposed 
rule. HUD provided the MHCC with a draft of this proposed rule for 
review and comment on August 19, 2004. During three ensuing conference 
calls with the MHCC and its subcommittee on installation, HUD received 
additional feedback and comment from the MHCC and its members that HUD 
considered in preparing this proposed rule. In addition, HUD has added 
several questions to the preamble seeking comment on issues where 
consensus within the MHCC was not reached or regarding other issues on 
which HUD would like targeted feedback.
    As indicated, HUD has carefully reviewed the MHCC's recommended

[[Page 21499]]

model installation standards and is in agreement with a significant 
majority of them. For the reasons set forth below in the Summary of 
Changes to the MHCC Proposed Installation Standards, modifications were 
made to some of the recommendations. The summaries of HUD's proposed 
Model Installation Standards and changes to the MHCC's recommendations 
include questions on which HUD seeks comment. The following is a 
section-by-section discussion of the new Model Installation Standards 
proposed by HUD.

I. Summary of HUD's Model Manufactured Home Installation Standards

    HUD proposes to codify the Model Installation Standards in a new 
part 3285 of title 24 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). HUD has 
chosen not to codify these installation standards as part of the 
Construction and Safety Standards (24 CFR part 3280), to avoid 
confusion between construction and installation and to assist in 
assigning clear lines of responsibility among the parties involved for 
construction versus installation issues. Moreover, the Act makes a 
clear distinction between the Federal Manufactured Home Construction 
and Safety Standards (MHCSS) and the Model Installation Standards. 
Section 604 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 5403) sets forth specific provisions, 
including preemption, which are applicable only to the MHCSS. The Act 
sets forth provisions applicable only to manufactured home installation 
and the Model Installation Standards in section 605 (42 U.S.C. 5404).
    The proposed rule provides that, at a minimum, manufactured home 
manufacturers must include installation instructions with each new 
home. The instructions must be approved by a design approval primary 
inspection agency (DAPIA) and must provide protection to the residents 
of manufactured homes that equals or exceeds the protections provided 
by the Model Installation Standards. In addition, States that desire to 
operate an installation program must adopt installation standards that 
provide protection that equals or exceeds the protections provided by 
the Model Installation Standards.
    HUD is soliciting comments on the distinction between standards for 
the construction and assembly of manufactured homes and the standards 
for the installation of manufactured homes established by this proposed 
rule. Generally, HUD has in the past considered those activities that 
are completed at the installation site to bring the home into 
conformance with the MHCSS as being part of construction and covered by 
the manufacturer's certification label. HUD has also considered as 
being part of construction those activities that for a multi-wide home 
are completed at the installation site, but for a singlewide home are 
performed in the factory prior to labeling the home, as well as 
activities required to finish the home at the installation site that 
are presently covered by the Alternative Construction process. On the 
other hand, HUD has considered installation to include the siting, 
supporting, stabilizing, and anchoring of the home.
    Based on HUD's further review and consideration of the 
recommendations of the MHCC, HUD has included specified activities 
necessary for the close up and joining of all sections of a multi-
section manufactured home as part of the Model Installation Standards. 
Installers, not manufacturers, typically perform close up work. Under 
the proposed rule, home purchasers generally would have to look to 
installers or retailers, who often employ or contract with installers 
to perform home installations, to remedy close up problems that are not 
the result of inadequate or incorrect manufacturer instructions or are 
manufactured in such a way that the sections do not fit together 
properly. This is because close up activities would not be covered by 
the manufacturer's notification and correction responsibilities for 
construction defects standards under section 615 of the Act (42 U.S.C. 
5414). However, including close up provisions in the Model Installation 
Standards would also mean that, in accordance with the Act, a State 
that operates an installation program in lieu of the HUD program will 
have to provide for inspections that include close up work.
    Under the current enforcement of the MHCSS, as well as State and 
local enforcement of installations, inspection for close up activities 
is generally not conducted by primary inspection agencies, States, 
local authorities, or HUD. HUD and the MHCC are of the opinion that 
improper close up is an area of significant concern for manufactured 
housing, and believe that the Model Installation Standards provide an 
opportunity to better address both close up and installation. 
Therefore, the proposed rule would include close up activities in the 
Model Installation Standards. Thus, close up work completed on site 
would be inspected under regulations to establish an installation 
program that will be published by HUD for public comment in a separate 
rulemaking. While HUD recognizes that there may be reasons to include 
close up activities as part of the MHCSS, the MHCC and HUD believe 
there is a practical necessity to include these aspects as installation 
standards, which would be inspected by States or HUD under installation 
program requirements. HUD believes that the Model Installation 
Standards as proposed, the additional requirement for inspection of 
installation and close up work through HUD's future installation 
program rule, and HUD's forthcoming dispute resolution regulation 
(which will also be published separately for public comment in a future 
rulemaking and would involve consumers, manufacturers, retailers, and 
installers) will provide greater protections to the residents of 
manufactured homes.
    HUD would like to receive comments, in particular from installers, 
retailers, and manufactured home owners, on the legal and practical 
effect of these proposals. Since close-up consists of the work and 
activities for completing the assembly of the home, is it consistent 
with the rest of the Act to consider such work as construction and 
therefore the responsibility of the manufacturer? Or is it too 
difficult for manufacturers to control and monitor the close-up done by 
installers so that it would be more appropriate to classify close up as 
part of installation? Will consumers be adequately protected if close-
up is classified as part of installation?
    HUD would also very much appreciate receiving comments from the 
States and local governments on this subject. How do the States and 
municipalities presently treat close up activities? Do their inspectors 
review close up activities as part of installation inspections? If 
there were requirements for inspection of close up work as part of 
HUD's certification of a State installation program, would there be 
difficulties with the expertise or work load of the State or local 
inspectors with respect to close ups, such that State installation laws 
could not be certified as covering inspection of close up work? 
Finally, HUD is very interested in hearing from States concerning 
whether the Model Installation Standards proposed in this rule would 
work well with the present installation programs in the States.

Summary--Part 3285 Model Manufactured Home Installation Standards

Subpart A--General
    Subpart A of the new part 3285 would include general provisions 
relevant to

[[Page 21500]]

the overall use and applicability of the Model Installation Standards. 
These general provisions include statements of the scope (Sec.  
3285.1(a)) and applicability (Sec.  3285.1(b)). The Model Installation 
Standards are applicable to the installation of new manufactured homes 
and would include those specific aspects of a typical installation that 
would be necessary to join all sections of a multi-section home. As a 
result, these close-up and crossover aspects would not be considered 
assembly under the Act's definition of ``manufactured home 
construction.'' This means that installers, rather than manufacturers, 
would be responsible for the great majority of problems relating to 
those aspects of erecting a home.
    States that choose to operate an installation program, as will be 
addressed by HUD under separate provisions set forth in a subsequent 
proposed rule, must implement installation standards that provide 
protection that equals or exceeds the protection to the residents of 
manufactured homes provided by these Model Installation Standards. 
Qualifying States may choose to establish or permit more stringent 
installation standards. However, States that do not establish standards 
that provide a level of protection that meets or exceeds the level of 
protection of these model provisions will not have qualifying programs.
    In States that do not choose to operate an installation program, 
HUD intends to regulate and enforce the installation of new 
manufactured homes through a program to be established separately in a 
subsequent rulemaking, using these Model Installation Standards for 
minimum design and installation requirements. In these States, the 
State or municipalities also may establish more stringent requirements, 
so long as the requirements provide protection that equals or exceeds 
the protection provided by the Model Installation Standards.
    Under the proposed rule, manufacturers would be required to provide 
installation instructions (Sec.  3285.2) with each new home that would 
be approved by the DAPIAs as providing the residents protection that 
equals or exceeds the protection provided by the Model Installation 
Standards. The manufacturer's installation instructions must not take 
the home out of compliance with the MHCSS (24 CFR part 3280), and must 
provide adequate instructions to complete those limited aspects of the 
installation that are necessary to join all sections of a multi-section 
home. HUD intends home manufacturers to be responsible for adequate and 
conforming installation instructions. However, through enforcement and 
dispute resolution regulations yet to be published for comment, 
installers or retailers would be accountable and responsible for work 
completed at the installation site in accordance with the 
manufacturers' instructions.
    HUD is also providing, in subpart A, general requirements for 
alterations completed during the initial installation that affect the 
installation of the home (Sec.  3285.3). This section ensures that any 
alterations will not adversely affect compliance with the Model 
Installation Standards, and that any such alteration does not take the 
home out of compliance with the MHCSS. The provision prohibits 
alterations, as defined by 24 CFR 3282.7, from imposing additional 
loads to the manufactured home or its foundation without following a 
design by a registered engineer or registered architect, or express 
inclusion in the manufacturer's approved installation instructions.
    Consistent with other construction-type standards, HUD would 
incorporate several specifications, standards and codes by reference 
(Sec.  3285.4) pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Reference 
standards have the same force and effect as the other Model 
Installation Standards except that whenever reference standards and the 
Model Installation Standards are inconsistent, the requirements of the 
Model Installation Standards would prevail to the extent of the 
inconsistency. Section 3285.5 provides definitions for terms contained 
in the Model Installation Standards.
Subpart B--Pre-Installation Considerations
    The majority of Subpart B would contain provisions for the 
installation of new manufactured homes in flood hazard areas. 
Consistent with current practice, the Model Installation Standards 
would make the installer responsible to evaluate the prospective 
installation site to determine if the location is in a flood hazard 
area (Sec.  3285.101). If so located, the installer must refer to the 
Federal Emergency Management Agency's National Flood Insurance Program 
for specific requirements and further guidance relating to installation 
in flood hazard areas.
    Seismic safety has not been addressed in this proposed rule 
primarily because seismic safety is not a required consideration in the 
construction of manufactured homes under the preemptive Manufactured 
Home Construction and Safety Standards (24 CFR part 3280). However, in 
areas where seismic activity is a concern, some State and local 
jurisdictions currently implement and enforce installation provisions 
that address seismic safety. Because the Model Installation Standards 
are minimum standards, these jurisdictions will continue to have full 
authority to implement and enforce seismic safety considerations. 
Should the Model Installation Standards attempt to set forth minimum 
installation requirements or pre-installation considerations to address 
seismic safety? If so, how should HUD establish seismic zones and what 
minimum requirements would be included in the Model Installation 
Standards?
    The Model Installation Standards would incorporate by reference the 
design zone maps (Sec.  3285.102) provided in the MHCSS (24 CFR part 
3280) to ensure that the design and construction of the home's 
foundation and anchorage is compatible with the design and construction 
of the manufactured home.
    In addition, the proposed Model Installation Standards recognize 
the need to evaluate other practical considerations for the 
installation site (Sec.  3285.103) and obtain all permits necessary for 
installation work, alterations, or other site-built structures (Sec.  
3285.104). While HUD would not regulate these considerations, reference 
to subpart J of this proposed rule is provided to establish 
considerations for which a home manufacturer must provide caution to 
the installer.
Subpart C--Site Preparation
    Subpart C is to establish requirements for the preparation of the 
site where a manufactured home would be installed and requires 
assessment of the soil at the installation site to ensure proper design 
and construction of the home's foundation and anchorage.
    The Model Installation Standards would also provide for site 
evaluation of the soil (Sec.  3285.201) and determination of soil 
classification and bearing capacity (Sec.  3285.202) to ensure that a 
particular foundation and anchorage design would be adequate for the 
home design and location. The Model Installation Standards provide for 
three general methods of determining the bearing capacity and 
classification of the soil at the installation site. Soils may be 
tested to determine the appropriate soil classification, bearing 
capacity, and torque probe values, or the records on file with a local 
authority having jurisdiction (LAHJ) may be used to determine these 
soil characteristics. Alternately, if the soil can be identified

[[Page 21501]]

by type, a table is provided for use in determining appropriate bearing 
capacity and soil classification including corresponding torque probe 
values. The Model Installation Standards would require consultation 
with a registered professional if unusual or suspect soil conditions 
were present.
    The proposed Model Installation Standards also include provisions 
to ensure that surface water is adequately drained to prevent water 
build-up under the home (Sec.  3285.203). The Model Installation 
Standards would require a minimum one-half inch per foot slope away 
from the home for the first ten feet, and require the home to be 
protected from surface runoff. If the slope cannot be obtained for ten 
feet due to property lines or other physical conditions, the site would 
need to be provided with drainage that will carry surface runoff away 
from the foundation. The standard would also require other runoff from 
gutters and downspouts to be directed away from the home.
    If the space under the home is enclosed with skirting or otherwise 
similarly enclosed, the Model Installation Standards would require a 
vapor retarder to keep ground moisture from entering the home (Sec.  
3285.204). Arid regions with dry soil conditions, as well as areas 
under open decks, porches, or recessed entries would be exempt from 
vapor barrier requirements. The Model Installation Standards would also 
provide for minimum vapor barrier material requirements and proper 
installation techniques. The requirements for vapor barrier 
installation permit minor voids and tears without repair. However, HUD 
is concerned that the excessive voids and numerous tears can defeat the 
purpose of the requirement. Therefore, should limitations be placed on 
the number and size of voids and tears? If so, what specific 
limitations would be recommended?
Subpart D--Foundations
    The Model Installation Standards would require foundations for 
manufactured home installations to be based on site conditions, home 
design features, and the loads the home was designed to withstand as 
evidenced on the home's data plate (Sec.  3285.301). The Model 
Installation Standards would provide prescriptive methods for 
constructing a foundation composed of piers and footings traditionally 
addressed by the manufacturer's installation instructions. While the 
Model Installation Standards include tables to size piers and footings, 
home manufacturers may elect to provide installation instructions that 
are compatible with the homes and options designed and constructed in 
their factories. However, the manufacturer's instructions must provide 
protection to residents that equals or exceeds the protection provided 
through the tables as based on assumptions outlined in table footnotes, 
and the design loads for which the home was constructed. When a home's 
design configuration differs from the design limitations noted in table 
footnotes, manufacturers or design professionals must use the design 
loads for which the home was constructed (based on the MHCSS) to design 
adequate support and anchorage. Equivalent pier and footing 
instructions, consistent with the presentation of data in the Model 
Installation Standards, would require substantiation through 
engineering design and analysis (Sec.  3285.301(b) and (c)).
    HUD Questions: Is it clear in the proposed rule that the described 
tables and charts for piers, footings, and anchor spacing are meant to 
provide example requirements for homes that have characteristics 
consistent with the respective design assumption footnotes? Is it clear 
that variations to tables and charts may be achieved through other 
installation methods or specifications and that the inclusion of 
variations within the manufacturer's installation instructions is both 
acceptable and may be required in order to assure continued compliance 
of the home with the MHCSS? Do the Model Installation Standards provide 
an adequate basis for preparing manufacturer's instructions that meet 
the level of protection provided by the Model Installation Standards 
when other installation methods are used? Do the Model Installation 
Standards need to include clearer performance equivalents so that 
alternative installation methods may be developed and subsequently 
approved or certified by Design Approval Primary Inspection Agencies 
(DAPIAs) or registered engineers or architects, as applicable? Can 
manufacturers comply consistently with both the MHCSS and the Model 
Installation Standards as proposed? Since the Model Installation 
Standards are intended to provide requirements for manufacturers to 
develop installation instructions, should the prescriptive provisions 
found in the tables for pier and footing sizing and anchor spacing be 
more appropriately placed in an appendix? Should the different 
specifications included in approved manufacturer installation 
instructions be required to be formatted to present pier, footer, and 
anchor spacing consistent with the presentation of data in the tables 
and charts of the Model Installation Standards?
    The Model Installation Standards would also permit alternative 
foundation design (Sec.  3285.301(d)). The alternative foundation 
design and support requirements would be determined by a registered 
professional engineer, registered architect, or nationally recognized 
third party testing agency in accordance with a nationally recognized 
testing protocol and must safely support the home as required by Sec.  
3285.301. However, HUD is not aware of an existing nationally 
recognized testing protocol or standard established to determine the 
support capability of proprietary-type foundation systems. While the 
proposed Model Installation Standards do refer to a national test 
protocol, HUD is requesting comments on specific requirements that 
should be considered and contained in such a protocol.
    As determined from flood hazard evaluation required in Subpart B, 
if the home is located wholly or partly in a flood hazard area, the 
support system would need to be capable of resisting gravity loads as 
well as design flood and wind loads (Sec.  3285.302).
    Generally, the Model Installation Standards would require piers to 
be capable of transmitting the vertical live and dead loads to the 
footings or foundation below (Sec.  3285.303). Piers may be made of 
concrete blocks, pressure-treated wood, or adjustable metal or concrete 
piers. Piers, if manufactured, would be required to be listed (Sec.  
3285.5) according to the intended use.
    The load that each pier must carry depends on many variables. Such 
variables include the dimensions of the home, the design dead and live 
loads, the spacing of the piers, and the way the piers are used to 
support the home. Manufacturers' installation instructions would be 
required to have pier and footing requirements that provide protection 
to manufactured home residents that equals or exceeds the protection 
provided by the design support configurations indicated in several 
tables provided in (Sec.  3285.303(d)), based on certain design 
assumptions noted in footnotes.
    The tables were prepared based upon worst-case design assumptions 
for current typical construction. However, the intended applicability 
of the tables is outlined and limited by the footnotes to the tables. 
It is HUD's intent that manufacturers or other parties may engineer and 
develop other pier and footing sizes and spacings for homes with 
characteristics that are outside of the design assumptions of the 
tables,

[[Page 21502]]

provided that the engineered design provides protection to residents 
that equals or exceeds the protection provided by the specific design 
assumptions and specifications of the tables.
    Table 3285.303(d)(1)(i) provides the model pier load and footing 
requirements for manufactured homes that are designed to be supported 
only at the frame and without additional perimeter support, except for 
perimeter support required at openings. Table 3285.303(d)(1)(ii) 
provides the model pier load and footing requirements for manufactured 
homes that are designed for support both at the frame and at the 
perimeter with support at specified spacings. Table 3285.303(d)(1)(iii) 
provides the minimum pier load and footing requirements for ridge beam 
column supports applicable to the mate-line of multi-section homes. For 
opening spans between those specifically included in the table, pier 
loads interpolated for the specific span may be used to design piers 
and footings.
    The Model Installation Standards (Sec.  3285.304) would also 
provide for specific materials, dimensions, and illustrations that 
establish the model design and construction requirements for concrete 
block piers and pier caps. Pier caps would be designed for structural 
loads to evenly distribute the loads across hollow block piers.
    HUD recognizes that gaps occur between the bottom of the supported 
beam and the foundation support system during typical installations. 
The Model Installation Standards would provide material and thickness 
requirements acceptable to fill these gaps. The Model Installation 
Standards would also provide requirements (Sec.  3285.305) for 
maintaining minimum clearances under homes.
    The Model Installation Standards would provide minimum design 
procedures for typical concrete block piers, single or double stacked, 
including limitations and requirements for pier heights and block 
orientation in Sec.  3285.306. The Model Installation Standards would 
require design by the manufacturer or a registered professional 
engineer or architect for unusual or special pier conditions, such as 
high or elevated piers (Sec. Sec.  3285.306(c) and 3285.309).
    The Model Installation Standards would also address requirements 
for locating piers along the mate-line of multi-section homes. Figures 
3285.310(a), 3285.310(b), and 3285.310(c) illustrate typical pier 
locations including pier and footing table references, applicable to 
mate-line locations and the appropriate support configuration.
    The Model Installation Standards (Sec.  3285.311) would require 
pier supports on both sides of side wall exterior doors and any other 
side wall openings greater than 48 inches (such as entry and sliding 
glass doors), and under porch posts, factory installed fireplaces, and 
wood stoves. Additional or alternate perimeter supports would be 
required in accordance with the design of the home, but would require 
use of the appropriate pier load and footing configuration tables as 
determined by the home manufacturer or a registered professional 
engineer or architect.
    The Model Installation Standards (Sec.  3285.312) would require 
footings to support every pier. Footings would have to be placed on 
undisturbed soil or fill compacted to 90 percent of maximum relative 
density. Figures 3285.312(a) and 3285.312(b) illustrate typical footing 
and pier (blocking) diagrams for single and multi-section homes.
    Acceptable footing materials (Sec.  3285.312(a)) and specific 
listing or labeling requirements would be required and identified, as 
appropriate for each material. Footings placed in freezing climates 
(Sec.  3285.312(b)) would be required to be placed below the frost line 
depth unless a registered professional engineer or architect properly 
designs an insulated foundation or slab-type foundation (Sec.  
3285.312(b)) in accordance with a nationally recognized design standard 
for frost-protected shallow foundations. The Model Installation 
Standards do not contain provisions for reinforced cast-in-place 
footings.
    HUD Questions: When desired or required, should the Model 
Installation Standards provide minimum steel reinforcement 
specifications for cast-in-place footings? What information should the 
Model Installation Standards include to adequately provide for the 
design of such footings? Should the Model Installation Standards 
incorporate nationally recognized consensus standards such as the 
American Concrete Institute code 530, for masonry structures and 
specifications?
    The size of footings (Sec.  3285.312(c)) would depend on the load-
bearing capacity of both the piers and the soil bearing capacity. Table 
3285.312(d) and Figure 3285.312(c) would provide footing configurations 
and requirements for precast and poured-in-place concrete footings 
corresponding to specified pier loads.
    The Model Installation Standards would require support systems 
designed to combine both load-bearing capacity and uplift resistance to 
be designed and sized for all applicable design loads (Sec.  3285.313).
    These standards would not apply to installations on site-built 
permanent foundations when the manufacturer certifies the home in 
accordance with Sec.  3282.12. Otherwise, designs for permanent 
foundations (Sec.  3285.314) would also be permitted so long as designs 
are obtained from the home manufacturer, or designed by a registered 
professional engineer or registered architect. These designs may also 
be subject to more stringent or supplementary local code requirements. 
When permanent foundation designs are required, but not available from 
the home manufacturer, a registered professional engineer, or 
registered architect would need to prepare a permanent foundation 
design that satisfies the home support and anchorage requirements for 
the site and the loads for which the home was constructed.
    Foundations for homes designed for and located in areas with roof 
live loads greater than 40 psf, would be required to be designed by a 
registered professional engineer or registered architect for the 
special snow load conditions (Sec.  3285.316). The Model Installation 
Standards would also recognize the use of ramadas in areas with roof 
live loads greater than 40 pounds per square foot (psf), but would 
require that any connection to the home be for weatherproofing only.
Subpart E--Anchorage Against Wind
    Subpart E (Sec. Sec.  3285.401 and 3285.402) would provide 
requirements for anchoring necessary to secure manufactured homes 
against wind. The Model Installation Standards would require anchorage 
for manufactured home installations to be based on site conditions, 
home design features, and the loads the home was designed to withstand 
as evidenced on the data plate.
    Where applicable to the type of installation, the Model 
Installation Standards would provide requirements for determining the 
maximum spacing for anchoring assemblies, historically addressed by the 
manufacturers installation instructions. The Model Installation 
Standards would also permit alternative anchorage design as long as the 
design is verified through engineering data and designed and certified 
by a registered professional engineer or architect (Sec.  3285.401(b)), 
based on the same process for pier and footer sizing.

[[Page 21503]]

    The Model Installation Standards (Sec.  3285.402(a)) would contain 
provisions for tie-down straps and anchor assemblies including ground 
anchors for ground anchor type installations that would be consistent 
with requirements in the MHCSS (24 CFR part 3280). The resistance 
capability of anchor assemblies and anchoring equipment would be 
determined by a registered professional engineer, registered architect, 
or nationally recognized third party testing agency in accordance with 
a nationally recognized testing protocol. The anchor assemblies would 
be required to be installed in accordance with the listing and capacity 
of the anchor assembly. However, HUD is not aware of an existing 
nationally recognized testing protocol or standard established to 
determine the resistance capability of anchor assemblies and anchoring 
equipment to wind forces. While the proposed Model Installation 
Standards refer to a national test protocol as recommended by the MHCC, 
HUD is requesting comments on specific requirements that should be 
considered and contained in such a protocol. HUD notes that the 
development of a testing protocol for anchor assemblies is currently 
under review by HUD and the MHCC's installation subcommittee.
    When providing instructions or requirements for ground anchor type 
installations, the number and location of ground anchors and anchor 
straps (Sec.  3285.402(b)) for the installation of single section and 
multi-section manufactured homes would be required to consistent with 
the Tables 3285.402(c)(1) through 3285.402(c)(3), and Figures 
3285.402(b)(1) and 3285.402(b)(2). However, the tables were based on 
worst-case assumptions for current typical manufactured home 
construction and may provide conservative spacing for different design 
assumptions. The use of the tables would only be applicable under the 
limitations provided in the footnotes. It is HUD's intent that 
manufacturers or other parties may engineer and develop other anchor 
spacing for homes with characteristics that are outside of the design 
assumptions of the tables, provided that the engineered design provides 
protection to residents of manufactured homes that equals or exceeds 
the design load assumptions and protections provided by the tables when 
applied to the specific home characteristics and the design loads for 
which the home was constructed.
    Table 3285.402(c)(1) would provide the maximum ground anchor 
spacing for diagonal straps applicable to homes located in Wind Zone 1. 
However, the spacing is dependent upon the size characteristics of the 
home, the I-beam spacing, and the design capacity of the anchor 
assembly. The table also contains the maximum height from the ground to 
the strap attachment for each strap spacing, ensuring that the diagonal 
strap angle achieves a nominal 45-degree angle. The table would only be 
applicable under the limitations contained in the 12 footnotes.
    Table 3285.402(c)(2) would provide the maximum ground anchor 
spacing for diagonal straps applicable to homes located in Wind Zone 2. 
Consistent with the MHCSS (Sec.  3280.306), the Model Installation 
Standards would require a vertical strap at each diagonal strap in this 
high wind area. However, the spacing is dependent upon the size 
characteristics of the home, the I-beam spacing, and the design 
capacity of the anchor assembly. The table contains the maximum height 
from the ground to the strap attachment for each strap spacing, 
ensuring that the diagonal strap angle achieves a nominal 45-degree 
angle. The table would only be applicable under the limitations 
contained in the 13 footnotes.
    Table 3285.402(c)(3) would provide the maximum ground anchor 
spacing for diagonal straps applicable to homes located in Wind Zone 3. 
Consistent with the MHCSS (Sec.  3280.306), the Model Installation 
Standards would require a vertical strap at each diagonal strap in this 
high wind area. However, the spacing is dependent upon the size 
characteristics of the home, the I-beam spacing, and the design 
capacity of the anchor assembly. The table contains the maximum height 
from the ground to the strap attachment for each strap spacing, 
ensuring that the diagonal strap angle achieves a nominal 45-degree 
angle. The table would only be applicable under the limitations 
contained in the 13 footnotes.
    In addition to regular tie down strapping and anchoring required 
through the tables, HUD recognizes that manufacturers may provide other 
straps at the factory that must be connected to an anchoring assembly 
(Sec.  3285.403) to ensure proper anchorage of the home. Such straps 
include mate-line straps, shear wall straps, and over-the-roof straps. 
When provided by the home manufacturer, these straps must be connected 
to an anchor assembly.
    The Model Installation Standards would provide general requirements 
(Sec.  3285.404) for the installation of ground anchors in freezing 
climates and would require that anchorage for homes located within 
1,500 feet of a Wind Zone 2 or 3 coastline be specifically included in 
the home manufacturer's installation instructions. Where site or other 
conditions prohibit the use of the manufacturer's design, the anchorage 
must be designed by a registered professional engineer or registered 
architect (Sec.  3282.405) for the special wind and site or other 
conditions.
Subpart F--Optional Features
    Subpart F would provide model requirements applicable to the 
installation of optional features not otherwise covered by the Model 
Installation Standards, but which could affect the home's compliance 
with the Model Installation Standards or the MHCSS. Where applicable 
and specific to the home and product manufacturer, optional features 
such as expanding rooms (Sec.  3285.502) and some appliances (Sec.  
3285.503) would be permitted to be installed at the installation site 
provided all items are installed in accordance with the home and/or 
product manufacturer installation instructions as Home Installation 
Manual Supplements (Sec.  3285.501).
    Optional appliances (Sec.  3285.503) would be required to be listed 
(Sec.  3285.5) or certified for the intended use and must be installed 
according to the appliance manufacturer installation instructions.
    The Model Installation Standards would require heat-producing 
appliances to exhaust to the exterior of the home, beyond perimeter 
skirting if installed (Sec.  3285.503(c)). This Subpart would also 
provide minimum appliance elevation and anchoring requirements for 
homes installed in flood hazard areas (Sec.  3285.503(d)). 
Specifically, appliances would be required to be anchored, and 
appliances and air inlets elevated at or above the same elevation as 
the lowest elevation of the lowest floor of the home.
    Clothes dryer exhaust duct systems (Sec.  3285.503(e)) would be 
required to conform with and be completed in accordance with the 
appliance manufacturer instructions and the MHCSS (Sec.  3280.708).
    HUD's Model Installation Standards would contain provisions for the 
use of optional skirting (Sec.  3285.504) and corresponding crawlspace 
ventilation (Sec.  3285.505) required when a perimeter enclosure is 
installed. The ventilation requirements are consistent with 
requirements for crawlspace ventilation of other structures built to 
model building codes, and would require ventilation of 1 square foot of 
ventilation for every 150 square feet of floor area. The ventilation 
may be decreased to 1 square foot of ventilation for every 1,500 square 
feet of floor area when an acceptable vapor barrier is

[[Page 21504]]

installed according to requirements in Subpart C. Other minimum 
requirements would provide for location of vent openings and covers for 
vent openings.
Subpart G--Ductwork and Plumbing and Fuel Supply Systems
    Subpart G would provide requirements applicable to the completion 
and installation of ductwork and water, drainage, and fuel supply 
systems. The provisions of subpart G are necessarily limited in scope 
and content, but are required to ensure that the manufactured home is 
not taken out of compliance with the MHCSS after installation is 
completed. The connections of the systems to utilities are located in 
subpart J of the proposed rule.
    Work related to completion of these systems at the installation 
site is deemed to be installation work so long as the work is limited 
only to that necessary to join sections of a multi-section home. 
However, the home manufacturer consistent with the existing 
requirements of the MHCSS must design instructions for completion of 
this work.
    Home manufacturers would be required to provide specific written 
instructions on the proper assembly for ship loose plumbing, duct, and 
fuel supply systems that are necessary to join all sections of a multi-
section home (Sec.  3285.601). The home manufacturer must design 
instructions to ensure that the systems, upon completion, will conform 
to the requirements of the MHCSS and the Model Installation Standards.
    The Model Installation Standards would require water line 
crossovers (Sec.  3285.603) for multi-section homes to be designed in 
accordance with provisions of the MHCSS (Sec.  3280.609). In addition, 
the Model Installation Standards would establish requirements for water 
supply inlet pressure consistent with the MHCSS, and establish a 
requirement for a mandatory shut-off valve. The Model Installation 
Standards would also require that water lines exposed to freezing 
temperatures be protected from freezing in accordance with requirements 
already established by the MHCSS (Sec.  3280.603). The water system 
would also need to be tested for leaks after completion at the 
installation site with testing requirements consistent with the MHCSS 
(Sec.  3280.612).
    The Model Installation Standards would require drainage crossovers 
(Sec.  3285.604) for multi-section homes to be designed in accordance 
with provisions of the MHCSS (Sec.  3280.610). In addition, the Model 
Installation Standards would establish requirements for proper drainage 
line support and slope, also consistent with the requirements of the 
MHCSS (Sec.  3280.608). The drainage system would also need to be 
tested for leaks after completion at the installation site with testing 
requirements consistent with the MHCSS (Sec.  3280.612).
    The Model Installation Standards would require fuel supply 
crossovers (Sec.  3285.605) for multi-section homes to be designed in 
accordance with provisions of the MHCSS (Sec.  3280.705). In addition, 
the Model Installation Standards would establish requirements for 
proper fuel supply pressure, consistent with the MHCSS and a 
requirement for a mandatory shut-off valve. The fuel supply system 
would also need to be tested for leaks after completion at the 
installation site with testing requirements consistent with the MHCSS 
(Sec.  3280.705).
    Subpart G would also provide requirements for duct crossovers and 
the materials to be used in completing the crossover connections (Sec.  
3285.606). Typical duct crossover designs are illustrated in figures 
and are consistent with current manufacturer installation instructions. 
However, other types of duct crossovers would be permitted so long as 
the crossover is adequately insulated and properly designed for the 
application.
Subpart H--Electrical Systems and Equipment
    The Model Installation Standards would require instructions for 
completing electrical crossovers (Sec.  3285.701) to be designed 
consistent with subpart I of the MHCSS. The Model Installation 
Standards would also provide specific requirements for the installation 
of certain lights and fixtures, including chain-hung interior lights, 
exterior lights and ceiling suspended paddle fans.
    Subpart H would also contain testing requirements for electrical 
continuity, operation, and electrical polarity after completion of the 
electrical system at the installation site. Testing requirements would 
include functionally testing smoke alarms after completion of the home 
(Sec.  3285.703).
    There may be information currently addressed by manufacturer 
installation instructions that has not been evaluated by the MHCC or 
reviewed for inclusion in the Model Installation Standards. Such issues 
as multi-section frame bonding, panel box grounding, and electrical 
feeder requirements may need further consideration. Therefore, HUD 
specifically invites public comment on the substance of this Subpart H 
and other related issues that should or should not be addressed.
Subpart I--Exterior and Interior Close Up
    Subpart I would establish Model Installation Standards applicable 
to work related to the joining of all sections of a multi-section home. 
Section 3285.801 would establish provisions for close up of the 
exterior of the home and would include exterior siding and roofing. 
Exterior products would be required to be installed in accordance with 
the product manufacturer's installation instructions and fastened in 
accordance with manufacturer designs consistent with the MHCSS 
(Sec. Sec.  3280.305 and 3280.307). The Model Installation Standards 
also address completion of an air seal gasket around the mate-line of 
multi-section homes to prevent the infiltration of air, water, insects, 
and vermin. The Model Installation Standards would also contain 
reference to hinged roofs and eaves. Under this proposed rule, 
unpenetrated, low-slope hinged roofs would be covered by the 
requirements for installation instructions and exterior close-up work. 
Other, more complex hinged roofs would continue to be subject to 
requirements established under the MHCSS. The Department addressed 
those requirements in a draft rule on on-site construction that it 
submitted to the MHCC for its prepublication review. Should the Model 
Installation Standards retain the proposed distinction (Sec.  
3285.801(f)) for certain hinged roofs that would permit completion of 
those roofs under the Federal installation program as part of exterior 
close-up? Or should all hinged roofs, regardless of roof slope, 
location, or penetration, be uniformly treated as construction of the 
roof assembly of the home and therefore subject to requirements related 
to the MHCSS? However, hinged roofs may be subject to Alternative 
Construction or other requirements to be outlined in an on-site 
construction rule to be published for comment separately by HUD.
    The Model Installation Standards would provide requirements 
relating to the structural interconnection of multi-section homes 
(Sec.  3285.802). These provisions would include requirements to 
maintain the structural integrity of the home and would establish 
requirements for gaps that may occur at the mate-line upon 
installation.
    The Model Installation Standards would also provide requirements 
for the interior finishing of certain aspects of the home that would 
not be completed at the factory due to transportation

[[Page 21505]]

limitations or possible transit damage (Sec.  3285.803). Section 
3285.804 would provide for repair of bottom board material that may be 
disturbed during the installation process.
Subpart J--Recommendations for Manufacturer's Installation Instructions
    Generally, moving manufactured homes and completing work at the 
site with respect to utility connections are subject to LAHJ 
requirements. Therefore, the proposed Model Installation Standards do 
not attempt to comprehensively address transport, permits, and utility 
connection requirements. However, several related provisions are 
included in subpart J as recommendations for manufacturers to include 
in their installation instructions in order to protect manufactured 
homes as constructed in accordance with the MHCSS (Sec.  3285.901).
    Specifically, Subpart J would provide recommendations for 
manufacturers to provide instructions related to moving the 
manufactured home to the installation site (Sec.  3285.902), fire 
separation, construction of on-site structures (Sec.  3285.903), 
provisions for culverts and ditches (Sec.  3285.904), connection of the 
drainage system to the sewer system (Sec.  3285.905), as well as 
installation instructions for fuel system orifices and regulators and 
gas appliance startup procedures.
    Subpart J would also address heating oil systems and tank 
installation (Sec.  3285.906), recommending that work be completed in 
accordance with the more stringent requirements of the LAHJ or the 
nationally recognized consensus standard NFPA 31.

II. Summary of Changes to MHCC Proposed Installation Standards

    In general, HUD's Model Installation Standards incorporate the vast 
majority of the MHCC's proposed installation standards but would amend 
the MHCC proposal for consistency with format and numbering of 
regulations published in the Code of Federal Regulations. HUD's Model 
Installation Standards would also delete all references to SI (metric) 
units because they were not consistently and comprehensively identified 
within the MHCC recommendations and have not been adopted by HUD in all 
other standards publications.
    In instances of other modification, HUD made a good-faith attempt 
to retain the intent and text of the installation standards provided by 
the MHCC. However, editorial changes have been made in the text for 
consistency with formatting of Federal Register documents, or for 
clarification purposes. In most areas where a change is being 
recommended for editorial or clarification purposes, it is not 
described with an associated rationale. In some instances, HUD 
recommends new or revised Model Installation Standards to replace the 
MHCC's proposed installation standards. These instances are fully 
described. HUD summarizes its changes to the MHCC proposal by grouping 
the changes into the following general categories:
     Consistency--HUD modified certain installation standards 
proposed by the MHCC to retain consistency with the Act, other sections 
of the Model Installation Standards, the MHCSS (24 CFR part 3280) and 
the Manufactured Home Procedural and Enforcement Regulations (24 CFR 
part 3282). Some changes for consistency would require a companion 
change to part 3280 and are identified appropriately.
     Relocate--HUD relocated certain sections or portions of 
text within the document while attempting to preserve the MHCC's 
installation standards and intent.
     Authority--HUD revised or deleted certain sections of the 
MHCC's proposed installation standards because the proposed 
installation standard was not within the scope of HUD's authority, or 
in the opinion of HUD, is an aspect of home installation best retained 
by the States for regulation through an LAHJ. In some instances, HUD 
retained such provisions in the Model Installation Standards but moved 
them from the MHCC proposed location and placed them in a section 
containing recommendations for inclusion in manufacturer installation 
instructions.
     Construction--HUD also modified certain MHCC-proposed 
installation standards that address completion of some aspects of the 
manufactured home at the site. HUD removed certain of these provisions, 
as they would be regulated under Alternative Construction requirements 
or other requirements for site completion to be published separately by 
HUD based upon consultation with the MHCC.
     Procedural--HUD revised or otherwise modified certain 
provisions because they did not establish standards but rather provided 
procedural direction. HUD will further consider these provisions in its 
future development of the Federal Installation Program regulations.
     Technical--HUD modified other provisions of the MHCC's 
proposed installation standards due to differences that are technical 
in nature.

Subpart A--General

    Subpart A incorporates portions of chapters 1, 2, 3, and 4 of the 
MHCC's proposed installation standards. Subpart A sets forth provisions 
for administration, referenced publications, and definitions of terms 
used throughout the document. However, HUD has made certain 
modifications to the MHCC's proposal as outlined below.
Administration Sec.  3285.1
    Scope (Relocate, Technical)--HUD revised the scope of the Model 
Installation Standards from that proposed by the MHCC to emphasize 
certain parameters relating to the use and requirements of the document 
within the envisioned Federal installation program. The scope statement 
submitted by the MHCC provided direction on the use of manufacturer 
installation instructions but did not provide information relating to 
the use of the Model Installation Standards in the more general context 
of HUD's installation program which will be established by separate 
rulemaking. Therefore, HUD modified the scope of the document to 
emphasize the following:
     The Model Installation Standards, as enforced under the 
Federal manufactured home installation program, would be applicable 
only to the first or initial installation of new manufactured homes. 
The use of these standards for any other manufactured home installation 
would be subject to State or local law.
     HUD has proposed a distinction between construction and 
installation work for the purposes of this proposed rule. 
Traditionally, work necessary to join the sections of a multi-section 
home has not been fully enforced by HUD or State or local agencies as 
part of the construction and assembly process or the installation 
process. Through this proposed rule, HUD would continue to recognize 
the current practice that installers accomplish certain work, limited 
to the joining of sections, as installation work completed at the 
installation site because of the impracticality of completing the work 
at the factory. However, home manufacturers would be accountable and 
responsible to furnish with each new home, adequate instruction on the 
completion of these joining and crossover aspects. The installer or 
retailer would be accountable and responsible to complete the work in 
accordance with the instructions provided and/or instructions developed 
by registered professional engineers or

[[Page 21506]]

architects in instances indicated in the Model Installation Standards.
     HUD has also added language that outlines the use of the 
Model Installation Standards in both States that choose to operate 
their own installation programs as well as the intended use of the 
document in States that do not choose to operate an installation 
program.
     The MHCC's language relating to manufacturer installation 
instructions has been preserved and relocated with modification, at 
Sec.  3285.2.
    Applicability (Consistency, Technical)--HUD accepted the intent of 
the MHCC's proposal for applicability of the Model Installation 
Standards. However, HUD modified the MHCC's proposed applicability 
sections to simplify the requirements for convenience and clarity. In 
summary, the Model Installation Standards would apply only to new 
manufactured homes produced under the Federal Manufactured Housing 
Program (24 CFR part 3280 and 24 CFR part 3282). As provided by section 
604(f) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 5403(f)), the installation standards do 
not apply to homes installed on site-built permanent foundations when 
the manufacturer certifies the home in accordance with Sec.  3282.12. 
Exclusions and other restrictions proposed by the MHCC were not deemed 
necessary by HUD, and therefore have been omitted.
    Installation of Manufactured Homes in Flood Hazard Areas 
(Relocate--Sec.  3285.101)--HUD accepted the MHCC's recommended 
provisions relating to home installation in flood hazard areas. 
However, HUD relocated the requirements for flood hazard areas, with 
minimal revisions, to Subpart B for inclusion as a pre-installation 
consideration.
    Manufacturer Installation Instructions Sec.  3285.2 (New Section--
Technical, Consistency)--HUD accepted the intent of the MHCC in its 
proposed scope language and definition of manufacturers instructions. 
However, section 605(a) of the Act (42 U.S.C. 5404(a)) contains 
specific provisions for installation design and instructions. 
Therefore, HUD established a new section in the Model Installation 
Standards requiring manufacturer installation instructions be provided 
with each new home. Manufacturer installation instructions, as set 
forth in section 605(a) of the Act, must meet or exceed the protection 
provided under the Model Installation Standards and would need to 
address, at a minimum, the requirements of the Model Installation 
Standards.
    HUD preserved a majority of the language and intent provided the 
MHCC in its scope statement, and supplements the language provided by 
the MHCC in its definition of installation instructions. HUD also 
modified this section to provide that the manufacturer's installation 
instructions must not take the home out of compliance with 24 CFR part 
3280.
    HUD invites comment concerning whether manufacturer installation 
instructions should provide that when general site conditions are not 
covered by the installation instructions, a professional engineer or 
registered architect must be consulted.
    Term Use (Consistency)--HUD did not accept this MHCC proposal 
because the Model Installation Standards are applicable only to 
manufactured homes as fully described in the Applicability section 
(Sec.  3285.1(d)).
    Alterations During Initial Installation Sec.  3285.3 (New Section--
Technical, Relocate)--HUD's Model Installation Standards include a 
section to address alterations made during the initial installation of 
a new manufactured home that affect the installation of the home. The 
Federal installation program would provide for design and inspection 
authority for modifications to a home or foundation only when the 
alteration affects the requirements of the Model Installation Standards 
or the MHCSS. State or local authority would have design and inspection 
authority for other alterations.
    HUD acknowledges that there are questions in delineating State or 
local authority from Federal jurisdiction in instances related to 
alterations during initial installations, such as for patio roofs, 
decks, entry stairs, etc. HUD specifically invites comment as to how 
alterations made to manufactured homes that affect the installation or 
designed foundation during the initial installation should be enforced 
and codified.
    Referenced Publications Sec.  3285.4 (Consistency, Technical)--HUD 
accepted the vast majority of referenced publications provided by the 
MHCC. However, HUD modified the order and sequence of certain standards 
incorporated by reference and is adding to or did not include some 
standards included in the MHCC proposal as follows:
    ACCA Manual J: HUD added this reference standard in Subpart F 
because it is a nationally recognized standard for sizing air 
conditioning equipment and is currently utilized and accepted by all 
parties for this purpose.
    ASTM D1586: HUD added this nationally recognized consensus standard 
as a method of determining soil characteristics consistent with the 
current work of the MHCC's ground anchor task force.
    ASTM D2487: HUD added this nationally recognized consensus standard 
as a method of determining soil classification consistent with the 
current work of the MHCC's ground anchor task force.
    ASTM D2488: HUD added this nationally recognized consensus standard 
as a method of determining soil classification consistent with the 
current work of the MHCC's ground anchor task force.
    NFPA 31: HUD included this reference standard because it is a 
nationally recognized consensus standard that addresses installation of 
oil burning equipment.
    NFPA 255: HUD deleted this reference document because it is not 
referenced within the Installation Standards. Is there a specific need 
to include this standard as a referenced standard with the Model 
Installation Standards? If so, in which section would the standard be 
referenced?
    NFPA 1192: HUD deleted this reference standard because it is not 
referenced within HUD's proposed modifications and is not applicable to 
structures covered by the Model Installation Standards. Is there a need 
to reference this standard for recreational vehicles? If so, in which 
section would the standard be referenced?
    ANSI A119.5: HUD deleted this reference standard because it is not 
referenced within HUD's proposed modifications and is not applicable to 
structures covered by the Model Installation Standards. Is there a need 
to reference this standard for recreational park trailers? If so, in 
which section would the standard be referenced?
    SEI/ASCE 32-01: HUD included this nationally recognized consensus 
standard as a reference standard for the design of specific foundations 
and references it in Subpart D.
    UL 181: HUD included this nationally recognized standard as a 
referenced standard for the use of connectors for factory made air 
ducts.
    HUD added referenced government publications 44 CFR 59 and 44 CFR 
60 to Sec.  3285.4 as they are referenced in Subpart B.
    Definitions Sec.  3285.5 (Consistency, Technical, Authority)--HUD 
accepted the majority of terms and definitions provided in the MHCC's 
proposed installation standards. However, HUD modified the sequence and 
text of certain terms and definitions. HUD eliminated reference to 
``Official Definition'' and ``General Definitions''

[[Page 21507]]

but retained the vast majority of the terms and definitions that were 
provided by the MHCC in each category. Some terms and definitions have 
been added or deleted to clarify the meaning of a term and carry out 
the intent of the appropriate Model Installation Standards. Several 
definitions would also require modification to definitions in the MHCSS 
to ensure consistency with definitions provided in these Model 
Installation Standards and need further consideration. These are 
specifically identified.
    ``Anchor Assembly''--This definition has been added to clarify its 
use in the document and to retain the MHCC's more recent recommendation 
to replace the term ``ground anchor.''
    ``Approved'' is modified for consistency with 24 CFR part 3280.
    ``Authority Having Jurisdiction''--HUD deleted this term and its 
definition. This term is being replaced with the term ``Secretary.'' 
HUD believes this change retains the MHCC's intent and remains 
consistent with the Act, 24 CFR parts 3280 and 3282.
    ``Labeled'' is modified for consistency with 24 CFR part 3280.
    ``Listed'' is modified for consistency with 24 CFR part 3280.
    ``Must,'' ``Shall,'' and ``Should''--Except as specifically 
identified, all provisions of the Model Installation Standards are 
mandatory minimum requirements. Generally, references to ``should'' and 
``shall'' have been replaced with ``must'' throughout the text of the 
Proposed Rule to retain consistency with Federal Register formatting.
    ``Anchor''--HUD did not incorporate the use of the term ``anchor'' 
because the definition is comparable to the definition of ``ground 
anchor'' in the MHCSS (24 CFR part 3280). HUD would also add the term 
``anchor assembly'' to 24 CFR part 3280.302 to maintain consistency.
    ``Anchoring equipment''--HUD would modify the definition to include 
the term ``anchoring assembly.'' A companion change to 24 CFR part 
3280.302 is required to maintain consistency.
    ``Anchoring system''--HUD revised the MHCC's definition to include 
the term ``anchoring assembly.'' A companion change to 24 CFR part 
3280.302 is required to maintain consistency.
    ``Arid Region''--While HUD did not modify the definition of this 
term, comment is specifically invited. Should annual rainfall be the 
only definitive factor used to determine an arid region with dry soil 
conditions? Is there substantiation for the threshold of 15 inches or 
less of rainfall?
    ``Ground Anchor''--HUD modified this definition to indicate that a 
ground anchor is a type of anchor assembly.
    ``Installation''--HUD did not include the MHCC's proposed 
definition because the term is not defined within the Act. HUD believes 
that the term as used does not need to be defined separately and that 
the MHCC definition would create confusion and possible conflict 
between the Model Installation Standards, the MHCSS, and the Act.
    ``Installation Alteration''--HUD did not include this definition 
proposed by the MHCC because not all alterations are within HUD's scope 
of authority to regulate. However, HUD attempted to retain the MHCC's 
intent by adding Sec.  3285.3 to the proposed rule, which addresses 
alterations during initial installation. Are the added provisions for 
alterations consistent with current practice?
    ``Installation Instructions''--HUD modified this proposed 
definition to clarify its application.
    ``Installation Standards''--HUD added this term because it appears 
in HUD's proposed Model Installation Standards. The proposed definition 
is consistent with the definition provided in the Act.
    ``Manufactured Home''--HUD modified this definition to be 
consistent with the Act.
    ``Manufactured Home Accessory Building or Structure''--HUD did not 
include this MHCC-proposed term and definition because the term does 
not appear within HUD's proposed Model Installation Standards and would 
have only applied to buildings and structures that are not within the 
scope of HUD's authority. Is there a specific need to define an 
accessory building or structure? If so, where would the term be used 
and how would the definition differ from common use of the term?
    ``Pier''--HUD modified this definition to retain consistency with 
all types of piers referenced in Subpart D of the proposed rule.
    ``Stabilizing Devices''--HUD included the terms ``ground'' and 
``equipment'' in its proposed definition. A companion change to 24 CFR 
part 3280.302 is required to maintain consistency.
    ``Stand, Manufactured Home''--HUD did not include this MHCC-
proposed term and definition as the term does not appear within HUD's 
proposed Model Installation Standards and may be confused with common 
usage of the term. Is there a specific need to define this term within 
the Model Installation Standards?
    ``Structure''--HUD did not include this term so that the common 
usage of the term will apply throughout the Model Installation 
Standards. Is there use of the term ``structure'' that would not be 
covered by the common usage of the term?
    ``Tie''--HUD modified this definition for consistency with 24 CFR 
part 3280.
    ``Diagonal Tie''--HUD modified this definition to combine the MHCC-
proposed definition with the definition in 24 CFR part 3280. This 
change also requires a companion change to 24 CFR part 3280 to maintain 
consistency.
    ``Secretary''--HUD added this term and definition to replace the 
term ``Authority Having Jurisdiction'' in the MHCC's proposed model 
installation standards. HUD believes this change preserves the MHCC's 
intent to recognize those items under HUD's authority and retains 
consistency with 24 CFR parts 3280 and 3282.
    ``Design Approval Primary Inspection Agency''--HUD added this term 
because it appears within HUD's proposed Model Installation Standards. 
The definition remains consistent with the Act and 24 CFR part 3282.
    ``Working Load''--HUD added this term because it appears within 
HUD's proposed Model Installation Standards.

Subpart B--Pre-Installation Considerations

    Subpart B incorporates provisions of Chapters 1 and 4 of the MHCC's 
proposed installation standards. Subpart B sets forth considerations 
for a home's installation relative to some site conditions, the design 
of the manufactured home, and the proposed foundation location. 
However, HUD has made certain modifications to the MHCC's proposal as 
outlined below.
    Installation of Manufactured Homes in Flood Areas Sec.  3285.101 
(Relocated, Technical, Consistency)--HUD accepted the large majority of 
the MHCC provisions for flood hazard areas. The sections pertaining to 
flood hazard areas would be relocated from Chapter 1 of the MHCC 
document to Subpart B of the Model Installation Standards. The 
evaluation of a site for flood hazard exposure is a pre-installation 
consideration that should be taken into account prior to designing a 
foundation and installing the manufactured home at the site. Therefore, 
this responsibility is charged to installers.
    All references to the issuance of permits in the MHCC proposal were 
relocated to Subpart J of the proposed rule because this function is 
not within HUD's authority. HUD also notes that the Federal Emergency 
Management Agency (FEMA) is currently in the process of updating its 
FEMA-85 document. HUD will consider updating

[[Page 21508]]

the Model Installation Standards to the revised FEMA document provided 
it is published prior to publication of the Model Installation 
Standards Final Rule.
    Alterations (Relocate--See Sec. Sec.  3285.3 and 3285.903)--HUD 
agrees with the intent of the MHCC regarding home alterations. However, 
HUD relocated the provisions for alterations during the initial 
installation to Sec.  3285.3 to better fit the reorganization of the 
proposed rule. Provisions related to the obtaining of permits have been 
relocated to Sec.  3285.903, as this function is not within HUD's 
authority.
    Installation Considerations (Technical, Construction)--HUD would 
not include MHCC-proposed provisions for utility schematics in the 
Model Installation Standards but would codify a similar requirement in 
Subpart G providing for specific written instruction on the field 
assembly of ship loose parts. In addition, provisions for floor plans 
and approval by the Secretary have not been included in the proposed 
rule due to the establishment of other provisions requiring adequate 
installation instructions. While floor plans are not specifically 
required, the Model Installation Standards (Sec.  3285.2) do require 
home manufacturers to provide adequate installation instructions with 
each new home that will ensure the home can be installed in accordance 
with all provisions of the Model Installation Standards. However, HUD 
seeks comment on whether model-specific plans for installation should 
also be required? If so, what minimum information should be required on 
the plans (e.g. pier capacities, minimum, support and anchorage 
locations, other structural design requirements, plan-specific 
information for completion of utility systems, etc.)? Would the 
provisions in Subpart G of the proposed rule adequately provide for 
required utility schematics?
    Home Installation Manual Supplements (Relocate--Sec.  3285.501)--
HUD accepted the intent of the MHCC's proposal regarding additional 
information to be included in the manufacturer's installation 
instructions. However, this information would be relocated to Sec.  
3285.501 to better fit the reorganization of the proposed rule.
    Design Zone Maps Sec.  3285.102--HUD agrees with the intent of the 
MHCC's proposal regarding design zone maps. Specific use of the design 
zone maps is referenced in Subparts D and E to ensure proper location 
and design of the foundation and anchorage.
    Moving Manufactured Home to Location Sec.  3285.103 (Authority)--
HUD agrees with the intent of the MHCC's proposal for moving 
manufactured homes to the installation site. However, regulation of 
this aspect is not within HUD's authority. Therefore, this information 
would be relocated to Subpart J, Sec.  3285.902.
    Permits, Other Alterations, and On-Site Structures Sec.  3285.104 
(Authority)--HUD agrees with the intent of the MHCC's proposal for 
these other considerations. However, regulation of these aspects is not 
within HUD's authority. Therefore, this information is relocated to 
Sec.  3285.903.

Subpart C--Site Preparation

    Subpart C of the proposed rule incorporates provisions of Chapter 5 
of the MHCC proposed installation standards. Subpart C sets forth 
requirements for preparing the site or property where the foundation is 
to be constructed. These considerations include soil conditions, 
drainage, and ground moisture control. HUD agrees with and has 
incorporated the vast majority of the MHCC's proposed installation 
standards regarding site preparation. HUD would make certain 
modifications to the MHCC's proposal in the proposed rule as outlined 
below.
    HUD relocated the MHCC's recommendations for transporter access, 
encroachments, fire separation, and permits, to subpart J of the 
proposed rule because they are not within the scope of HUD's authority 
but may be subject to LAHJ requirements.
    Soil Conditions Sec. Sec.  3285.201, 3285.202, and 3285.402 
(Technical, Consistency)--HUD agrees with the majority of installation 
standards contained in the MHCC's proposed installation standards for 
soil conditions. HUD modified the MHCC's proposed standards for soil 
conditions, including the Table of Soil Classifications and Bearing 
Capacities for clarity, but preserved the MHCC's intent and as much 
MHCC-proposed language as practicable. HUD's proposed modifications 
also simplify and clarify the standard and incorporate classification 
of soils required for ground anchor selection consistent with the most 
current recommendations of the MHCC's ground anchor task force.
    HUD's Model Installation Standards relocated and combined sections 
contained in the MHCC's proposal in order to simplify and condense 
certain requirements, such as removal of organic material. HUD seeks 
comment on the issue as to whether the standards should require that a 
minimum of six inches of soil, including the organic material, be 
removed under load bearing footings to ensure that footings are placed 
on undisturbed soil for at-grade footings?
    HUD would modify the MHCC proposal so that soil data needed to 
determine bearing capacity and anchor selection is obtained through 
testing, soil records, or through an expanded table for soil 
classification. HUD did not include references to specific soil test 
methods and equipment contained in the MHCC proposal and instead would 
require testing to be in accordance with accepted engineering practice. 
HUD would also modify the MHCC's proposed Table for Soil Bearing 
Capacities by expanding its application to also be used for determining 
the numeric classification of soils for anchor selection, and by 
expanding the criteria in the Table to include torque probe and blow 
count values. This approach is consistent with the most current 
recommendations of the MHCC's ground anchor task force.
    Drainage Sec.  3285.204 (Consistency, Relocate--see Sec.  
3285.803)--HUD agrees with the majority of the MHCC's proposed 
installation standards related to drainage control. HUD has attempted 
to clarify the drainage requirements to incorporate the minimum slope 
requirements outlined in the figures proposed by the MHCC, and to 
incorporate more recent MHCC recommendations for instances where the 
slope is prohibited by property lines or other physical conditions. HUD 
relocated the MHCC's proposed requirements for drainage structures 
(ditches and culverts) to Subpart J of the proposed rule because the 
design and construction of such structures is subject to requirements 
of the LAHJ. HUD also revised the text and figures to eliminate 
permissive model installation standards and establish Federal Register 
formatting language.
    Ground Moisture Control Sec.  3285.204 (Technical)--HUD generally 
agrees with the majority of the MHCC's proposed installation standards 
for ground moisture control. HUD would modify the MHCC vapor barrier 
proposal so that the only exception for placement of a vapor barrier is 
provided in the Model Installation Standards. The proposed rule would 
not permit a LAHJ to establish a less stringent standard. It is HUD's 
position that exceptions for vapor barrier placement must be described 
within the Model Installation Standards because HUD cannot delegate 
rulemaking authority without proper notice and comment rulemaking. HUD 
would also make editorial revisions to the MHCC's proposal on vapor 
barrier installation, but the modifications would not change the 
substance or intent of the MHCC's proposal.
    Drainage Structures (Authority)--HUD agrees with the intent of the

[[Page 21509]]

MHCC's proposal for drainage structures. However, regulation of this 
aspect of home installation is not within HUD's authority. Therefore, 
this information has been relocated to Sec.  3285.904.

Subpart D--Foundations

    Subpart D would incorporate the provisions of Chapter 6 of the MHCC 
document with only minimal modification as to substance or intent. 
Subpart D sets forth the requirements for the design and construction 
of the foundation for a manufactured home. This includes piers, 
footings, and other related support system components. HUD is in 
agreement with the large majority of the MHCC's proposed installation 
standards regarding foundations. However, HUD would make certain 
modifications to the MHCC's proposal as outlined below.
    HUD notes that pier and footing tables and figures proposed in the 
Model Installation Standards provide an example with very prescriptive 
elements for foundations composed of the pier and footing type 
foundations specific to a home configuration and design assumptions 
outlined in footnotes. Pier and footing type foundations are common and 
currently provided for in manufacturer installation instructions. HUD 
intends that the requirements for pier and footing design and 
construction be used by States and manufacturers to develop and 
establish foundation systems appropriate for the homes produced by a 
manufacturer or installed in a State. The foundation systems developed 
would be required to equal or exceed the protection to residents 
provided by the Model Installation Standards. HUD must also consider 
the use of other foundation types, such as perimeter and permanent 
foundations, especially in States where HUD will operate the 
installation program.
    HUD Questions: Should manufacturers who design their manufactured 
homes to be installed on perimeter or permanent foundations, in 
addition to pier, footing and anchor foundations, be required to 
provide DAPIA-approved installation instructions for perimeter and/or 
permanent foundations and the pier, footing, and anchor systems?
    Will manufacturers be able to use the proposed Model Installation 
Standards to develop installation instructions for perimeter and 
permanent foundation installations? HUD specifically invites comment on 
the established requirements for the design of pier and footing 
foundations as well as alternative, perimeter, and permanent foundation 
designs and proprietary-type foundation systems.
    Do the Model Installation Standards in this proposed rule 
adequately and clearly allow for alternative foundation designs? Does 
the document establish sufficient criteria to design a foundation not 
composed of piers and footings? Do the proposed Model Installation 
Standards provide adequate design criteria to permit a manufacturer or 
State to develop pier and footing foundations for homes that have 
characteristics different from the assumptions on which the tables are 
based?
    Should the Model Installation Standards provide for the uniform 
testing of proprietary-type foundation systems? Should the Model 
Installation Standards and/or installation program regulations address 
review and/or approval of alternative foundation systems? Should 
designs prepared by registered professional engineers and architects as 
variations from DAPIA-approved designs, or that are designed for 
specific site conditions that are not included in a manufacturer's 
installation instructions, be required to be DAPIA-approved to ensure 
that the installation system or foundation is properly designed for the 
specific home and does not take the home out of compliance with the 
MHCSS? If the specific designs are not DAPIA-approved, what safeguards 
should be provided to assure that the variations in foundation and 
anchoring from the DAPIA-approved manufacturer's instructions do not 
take the home out of compliance with the MHCSS and adequately support 
and anchor the home? Specifically, if DAPIA approval were not required, 
how would HUD's installation program provide for the inspection and 
enforcement of these variations?
    General Sec.  3285.301 (Technical)--HUD agrees with the intent of 
the MHCC's proposed installation standards. HUD proposes to clarify the 
general requirements for foundations, so that foundation designs 
accommodate the site conditions, home design features, and loads the 
home was designed to withstand based on the design loads of the MHCSS.
    Flood Hazard Areas Sec.  3285.302--HUD incorporated the MHCC's 
proposal in the proposed rule.
    Piers Sec.  3285.303--HUD accepted the vast majority of the MHCC's 
proposed installation standards for piers. HUD made a few editorial 
changes to clarify its intent and retain consistency with other 
sections of HUD's proposed Model Installation Standards.
    HUD Questions: HUD specifically invites comment on the Model 
Installation Standards established for manufactured piers. Should the 
Model Installation Standards include other design characteristics or 
standards for manufactured piers such as protection from the elements, 
material specifications, a testing protocol, or listing and labeling 
requirements? HUD is not aware of a nationally recognized testing 
protocol or listing requirements to which manufactured piers are 
currently tested or listed.
    Design Requirements Sec.  3285.303(c) (Technical)--HUD accepted the 
MHCC's recommendations for design requirements, but would modify the 
MHCC proposal to add a requirement that dead loads be considered in the 
design of foundations.
    Pier Loads Sec.  3285.303(d) (Technical)--The MHCC proposal 
indicated that the tables for pier loads must be used in the event the 
manufacturer installation instructions are not available. However, 
manufacturers are to use the Model Installation Standards as a model in 
the design of their installation instructions. Therefore, retaining the 
MHCC's proposal would create a circular reference. HUD revised the 
MHCC's proposed installation standards to require that the 
manufacturer's installation instructions must provide a level of 
protection that meets or exceeds the specifications of the Model 
Installation Standards. Manufacturers would be required to design 
foundations appropriate to their products that would support the 
appropriate design loads of the MHCSS and provide protection that 
equals or exceeds the support provisions found in Tables 
3285.303(d)(1)(i) through (iii). To ensure that the designs are 
consistent with the tables, the design limitations used in the 
development of the tables are reflected as footnotes.
    Configuration Sec.  3285.304--HUD incorporated the MHCC proposals 
for pier configuration in the proposed rule.
    Caps Sec.  3285.304(b)--HUD accepted the proposal for pier caps 
contained in the MHCC's proposed installation standards. However, HUD 
specifically invites comment on the specifications for steel caps 
because the HUD and MHCC proposals include steel as an alternate 
material, but minimum thickness, corrosion protection, and yield 
strength have not been specified in the proposed Model Installation 
Standards.
    Gaps Sec.  3285.304(c)--HUD agrees with the MHCC's proposal 
regarding gaps. HUD modified the MHCC proposal to clarify that this 
section addresses only

[[Page 21510]]

gaps between the frame and pier. HUD specifically invites comment on 
the clarity of the proposed standards for gaps.
    Clearance under homes Sec.  3285.305--HUD has not modified the 
language or intent of the MHCC's proposal for clearance under homes. 
However, the section provides minimum clearance requirements only for 
areas of utility connections. Should the standard include minimum 
clearance in other areas such as areas required for access or 
inspection?
    The standard specifies that no more than 25 percent of the lowest 
member of the home must be less than 12 inches above grade. As a 
practical matter, should the standard address requirements for 
instances where more than 25 percent of the home is less than 12 inches 
above grade? Should there be limitations or requirements on the 
percentage of a home's footprint that can be less than 12 inches above 
grade? The proposed requirements may need clarification in order to 
fully incorporate the MHCC's intent. HUD specifically invites comment 
on the clarity and practicality of this proposed requirement.
    Design Procedures for Concrete Pier Blocks Sec.  3285.306 
(Technical, Consistency)--HUD accepted the great majority of the MHCC's 
proposed installation standards for the design of concrete piers. HUD 
would make editorial modifications to the MHCC's proposal to remove 
permissive Model Installation Standards, use appropriate terminology, 
and revise the proposed figure notes for consistency with the 
requirements of the proposed Model Installation Standards.
    HUD specifically invites comment on the requirements of the 
proposed Model Installation Standards for mate-line supports. The MHCC 
proposal incorporated a provision to permit single stacked blocks to a 
maximum height of 54 inches. However, this contradicts limitations set 
for the construction of single stacked block piers (36 inches). Is 
there specific substantiation for permitting single stacked mate-line 
piers above 36 inches? Similarly, the MHCC-proposed installation 
standard requires that when more than 25 percent of the home's frame is 
more than 67 inches above the top of the footing, stabilizing devices 
must be specifically designed. However, the Model Installation 
Standards requirements indicate that double stacked piers may be used 
for up to 80 inches above the top of the footing. Is there specific 
substantiation for requiring special design for stabilization when more 
than 25 percent of the home's frame is more than 67 inches above the 
top of the footing? Are the requirements of this section clear and 
enforceable?
    Perimeter Support Piers Sec.  3285.307 (Relocate)--HUD accepted the 
intent and vast majority of language provided in the MHCC's proposed 
installation standards for perimeter support piers. HUD created a 
separate section to include these provisions.
    Manufactured Piers Sec.  3285.308 (Relocate)--HUD accepted the 
intent and vast majority of language provided in the MHCC's proposed 
installation standards for manufactured piers. HUD created a separate 
section to include these provisions.
    Elevated Homes Sec.  3285.309 (Relocate)--HUD accepted the intent 
and vast majority of language provided in the MHCC's proposed 
installation standards for elevated homes. HUD created a separate 
section to include these provisions.
    Location and Spacing Sec.  3285.310 (Technical)--HUD accepted the 
intent and majority of language provided in the MHCC's proposed 
installation standards for location and spacing of piers. However, HUD 
would require that dead load be considered in the design of foundations 
and has modified the MHCC proposal to include this consideration. HUD 
has made some editorial modifications to the notes on the figures 
related to mate-line column piers to clarify requirements and ensure 
consistency.
    HUD requests comment on the need to incorporate specific figures in 
the proposed rule relating to mating wall piers, as the intent of the 
Model Installation Standards is to define provisions for the 
manufacturers' installation instructions and State-developed standards. 
The inclusion of the figures may add unnecessary confusion to the Model 
Installation Standards as manufacturers and States may develop 
specifications and other figures that correspond to the options and 
models produced and installed in their locale, and these may create 
conflict and confusion with the figures and footnotes published in the 
Model Installation Standards. Nonetheless, HUD proposes modifications 
to several notes of the figures that are intended to clarify 
requirements and maintain consistency with the Model Installation 
Standards.
    Pier Support Locations Sec.  3285.310(c) (Technical)--HUD does not 
agree with the intent of the MHCC's proposed language for pier support 
locations. The MHCC proposal contains requirements for single and 
multi-section homes indicating that the location and spacing of piers 
identified in the Model Installation Standards would only be applicable 
in the event that manufacturers instructions were not available. 
However, manufacturers are to use the Model Installation Standards in 
the design of their instructions. Therefore, retaining the MHCC's 
proposal would create a circular reference. HUD modified the MHCC 
proposal to require that the manufacturer's installation instructions 
equal or exceed the protections provided by the Model Installation 
Standards.
    Required Perimeter Supports Sec.  3285.311 (Technical)--HUD 
incorporated the language provided by the MHCC's proposed installation 
standards and would add a requirement for perimeter supports when 
required by the design of the home and the requirements set forth by 
the manufacturer's installation instructions. Therefore, HUD's proposed 
Model Installation Standards refer back to the applicable load tables 
and attempt to differentiate when perimeter supports are required for 
concentrated loads at openings versus when perimeter supports would be 
required for intermediate support of the home.
    Footings Sec.  3285.312 (Technical, Consistency)--HUD agrees with 
the language and intent of the MHCC's proposed installation standards 
but proposes that the reference to compacted fill be clarified to be 
consistent with Subpart C of the proposed rule. HUD also clarified 
several notes to the figures to ensure that they are compatible with 
the load tables and requirements outlined in the Model Installation 
Standards.
    ABS Footing Pads Sec.  3285.312(a)(3)--HUD has not modified the 
intent or a significant majority of the MHCC's proposed language for 
ABS footing pads. However, HUD specifically invites comment on the 
requirements of the Model Installation Standards for ABS footing pads. 
Specifically, HUD is not aware of a nationally recognized testing 
protocol or national consensus standard established for plastic-type 
footing pads. To what standard should ABS footing pads be listed and 
what type of criteria should be contained in the Model Installation 
Standards to ensure the products are durable and can be adequately and 
uniformly evaluated for review and approval?
    Placement in Freezing Climates Sec.  3285.312(b) (Technical)--HUD 
agrees with the MHCC's proposed installation standards for placement of 
footings in freezing climates. HUD modified the MHCC proposal by 
requiring footings to be placed below the frost line, unless

[[Page 21511]]

specifically designed otherwise as permitted by the Model Installation 
Standards. HUD would retain the MHCC's intent by permitting the LAHJ to 
establish the particular depth, because the depth varies with location. 
Attempting to specify a depth in the Model Installation Standards is 
not practicable since there is no national source available for local 
frost line depths. In areas where a jurisdiction is not established, a 
registered engineer, architect, or geologist must be retained to 
determine the frost line depth.
    HUD's modification would also permit foundations above the frost 
line provided the design is prepared by a registered professional 
engineer or architect. HUD's Model Installation Standards would permit 
monolithic slab and insulated foundations above the frost line provided 
they are designed by a professional engineer or architect and conforms 
to the nationally recognized consensus standard, SEI/ASCE 32-01 and 
acceptable engineering practice.
    Combination Systems Sec.  3285.313--HUD incorporated the MHCC's 
proposal in the Model Installation Standards.
    Sec.  3285. Permanent Foundations 314--HUD has not modified the 
intent or vast majority of language for permanent foundations. However, 
HUD specifically invites comment on permanent foundation requirements. 
The MHCC proposal indicated that permanent foundations are to be 
designed by a registered professional. However, the Model Installation 
Standards do not outline specific requirements or attempt to define a 
permanent foundation. Should the section be expanded to include a 
definition and expanded requirements for permanent foundations? If so, 
what specifics should be considered and included in the Model 
Installation Standards?
    Special Snow Load Conditions Sec.  3285.315 (Consistency, 
Relocate)--HUD agreed with the intent and majority of language provided 
by the MHCC for special snow load conditions. However, HUD made some 
changes to the MHCC's proposal to maintain consistency with other 
portions of the proposed rule. HUD made certain changes for consistency 
and moved the section on ramadas from the MHCC's Chapter 8 to this 
section because ramadas are sometimes used in high snow load areas.

Subpart E--Anchorage Against Wind

    Subpart E would incorporate only the anchoring provisions from 
Chapter 7 of the MHCC proposal. Subpart E sets forth requirements 
related to the anchorage of manufactured homes against wind. HUD 
accepted the great majority of the MHCC's proposed installation 
standards regarding anchoring against wind. However, some portions of 
Chapter 7 of the MHCC proposal not related to anchoring have not been 
included or have been relocated to Subparts G, H, and I and changes to 
these portions are summarized here to align with the order and 
organization of the MHCC's installation standards.
    Several sections contained within Chapter 7 of the MHCC's proposed 
installation standards do not relate to anchoring against wind. These 
sections include provisions necessary for joining sections of multi-
section homes, which have been relocated to the appropriate Subpart for 
the specific type of work. These sections include: Interconnection of 
Multi-section Homes, Crossover Connections for Multi-section Homes, 
Ductwork Crossovers, Installation Close-up Finishing, Exterior Siding 
Close-Up, Interior Close-Up, and Bottom Board Repair.
    Similarly, other sections contained within Chapter 7 of the MHCC's 
proposed installation standards do not relate to anchoring against wind 
and are not related to joining of close up of the home. Therefore, the 
following sections of the MHCC proposal have been relocated as follows:
    Moving Manufactured Home to Location and Positioning of Home 
(Relocated--See Sec.  3285.902)--These MHCC recommendations were 
accepted by HUD but relocated to Subpart J because they also do not 
establish standards for installation of the home but the provisions may 
be subject to LAHJ requirements.
    Installation of On-Site Structures (Relocate, Technical, 
Authority)--HUD relocated most of the MHCC recommendations for on-site 
structures to Subpart J of this proposed rule because HUD does not have 
any authority to regulate the design and construction of the other 
structures but recognizes that the LAHJ may establish and enforce 
applicable requirements that an installer should consider. HUD moved 
the information with respect to expanding rooms to Subpart F where 
optional features are addressed. HUD also removed references to fire 
separation, as it is duplicative of information contained in Subpart J 
of the proposed rule.
    Expanding Rooms (Relocate--See Sec.  3285.502)--This section, 
relating to an optional feature, has been relocated in Subpart F of the 
proposed rule.
    Unfinished Gypsum Wallboard (Construction)--HUD would not 
incorporate this MHCC proposal in the Model Installation Standards 
because the proposal does not provide or clarify requirements otherwise 
required by the MHCSS. Is there a specific need to incorporate flame 
spread rating requirements for interior finishes? HUD is of the opinion 
that such requirements relate to construction of the home and may be 
subject to Alternative Construction or other requirements for on-site 
construction to be published for comment separately.
    HUD's Model Installation Standards would incorporate the remainder 
of chapter 7 of the MHCC's proposal with little revision as to 
substance or intent. However, HUD notes that anchoring against wind 
uplift at the mate-line has not been addressed by the MHCC's proposal. 
HUD specifically invites comment on the absence of requirements for 
anchoring at mate-lines of multi-section homes. Should HUD establish 
anchoring provisions for locations along the mate-line, such as column 
locations, for multi-section homes? If so, how? Is the current 
requirement for mate-line strapping, found in section Sec.  3285.403, 
adequate to address such instances?
    HUD proposes the following modifications to the MHCC proposals 
relating to anchoring provisions:
    Anchoring Instructions Sec.  3285.401 (Authority, Technical)--HUD 
would modify the MHCC proposal to require preparation of designs for 
alternative anchoring systems by registered engineers or registered 
architects. HUD would require that anchoring systems be designed, at a 
minimum, for the site conditions, home design features, and loads that 
the home was designed to withstand. Accordingly, HUD has modified the 
MHCC proposal to include appropriate Model Installation Standards 
permitting alternate designs.
    HUD Questions: HUD invites comments on the review and approval of 
designs for anchoring systems that are not included in manufacturer's 
installation instructions. Do the Model Installation Standards 
adequately allow for such designs? Who should review and approve such 
designs? Have the Model Installation Standards adequately provided 
criteria for the review and evaluation of such anchoring systems and 
assemblies?
    In general, HUD revised all references in the MHCC proposal to the 
term ``anchors,'' to the revised term ``ground anchor.'' HUD believes 
this is consistent with the MHCC's intent and maintains consistency 
with 24 CFR part 3280. HUD also notes that the nationally recognized 
protocol for testing ground anchor assemblies is currently under review 
by an MHCC installation subcommittee task force. HUD has modified the 
MHCC proposal to

[[Page 21512]]

incorporate provisions for galvanization of anchors and metal 
stabilizer plates in the Model Installation Standards. Are the 
galvanization provisions for ground anchor stabilizer plates and 
current requirements for galvanization of strapping (24 CFR part 
3280.306(g)) adequate to resist corrosion under actual use and typical 
conditions?
    Ground Anchor Installations Sec.  3285.402 (Authority, Technical)--
HUD accepted the intent and vast majority of language provided by the 
MHCC. However, HUD made some changes for clarity and to ensure that the 
ground anchor spacing identified in the tables is understood to be a 
maximum spacing that allows closer spacing as more stringent 
requirements. The MHCC's proposal for selection of ground anchors for 
an installation site refers back to MHCC proposed chapter 5 (Soil 
Conditions). However, the information provided by the MHCC for soil 
conditions did not provide information necessary to select appropriate 
anchors. Therefore, HUD modified the information provided in subpart C 
to ensure that soil classification can adequately be used to select 
ground anchors. HUD would also require all homes to be stabilized 
against wind in the longitudinal direction in all wind zones. 
Manufactured homes located in Wind Zones 2 and 3 would require 
longitudinal ground anchors at the ends of each transportable section.
    HUD has not incorporated references in the MHCC proposal to methods 
and materials approved by the authority having jurisdiction because the 
additional requirements would be subject to notice and comment 
rulemaking procedures, and inclusion is not necessary given the Model 
Installation Standards as proposed by HUD, and the ability of LAHJs to 
establish more stringent requirements.
    HUD modified the MHCC recommendation to require stabilizer plate 
installation as required by the ground anchor listing or certification 
rather than requiring stabilizer plates in all installations. HUD would 
require that metal stabilizer plates be galvanized consistent with 
coatings required for anchors and strapping and that anchoring 
assemblies be required to be installed in accordance with their listing 
or certification. The listing or certification may or may not require 
use of a stabilizer plate. HUD also made several editorial 
modifications to the notes for the ground anchor spacing tables and 
anchoring figure notes, to maintain consistency with requirements of 
the MHCSS, HUD's proposed modifications, and the intent of the MHCC.
    Sidewall, Over-the-Roof, Mate-Line, and Shear wall straps Sec.  
3285.403 (Technical)--HUD agrees with the majority of the intent and 
language provided by the MHCC. However, HUD has added mate-line and 
shear wall straps to this section to ensure that such straps are 
anchored when provided.
    Severe Climatic Conditions Sec.  3285.404 (Technical)--HUD modified 
the MHCC proposal for installing ground anchors in frost-susceptible 
soil locations by modifying reference to high water table locations. 
The depth at which the soil freezes is the soil frost depth and its 
relationship to the water table is not readily available on a national 
basis.
    Severe Wind Areas Sec.  3285.405 (Technical)--HUD does not agree 
with the intent of the MHCC's proposed language for severe wind 
locations. The MHCC proposal indicated that anchoring in high wind 
areas be completed in accordance with the home manufacturer's 
installation instructions. However, the MHCC proposal did not contain a 
minimum design requirement for the installation instructions. HUD's 
acceptance of the MHCC proposal would have resulted in a circular 
reference, because the manufacturer's installation instructions must 
equal or exceed the requirements of the Model Installation Standards. 
Therefore, HUD proposes to modify this section by requiring that 
anchoring systems in high wind areas be designed by the home 
manufacturer for the special wind conditions or the anchorage must be 
designed by a professional engineer or registered architect in 
accordance with acceptable engineering practice for the increased wind 
design loads when site or other conditions prohibit the use of the 
manufacturers instructions. This modification clearly requires home 
manufacturers to provide instructions specific for the special wind 
conditions, or in the event that site or other conditions prevent the 
use of a manufacturer's instructions, a professional engineer or 
registered architect must design for the site conditions and special 
wind conditions. Does the proposed modification clarify the design 
requirements for high wind areas?
    Flood Hazard Areas Sec.  3285.406--HUD accepted the intent and 
language provided in the MHCC's proposed installation standards.

Subpart F--Optional Features

    Subpart F incorporates certain portions of chapters 7, 8, and 9 of 
the MHCC proposal applicable to optional features. This subpart sets 
forth requirements for the installation and completion of optional 
features. Where retained, HUD's Model Installation Standards 
incorporate the majority of substance and intent of the applicable 
portions of the MHCC proposal. However, some portions of the MHCC 
proposal have been modified and others relocated to subpart J of the 
proposed rule. Areas covered in chapter 8 of the MHCC proposal that are 
not contained in subpart F of the proposed rule have not been 
incorporated in the proposed Model Installation Standards as described 
below. HUD's specific revisions to the MHCC proposal provided below.
    Home Installation Manual Supplements Sec.  3285.501 (Relocated, 
Technical)--HUD relocated the MHCC proposal regarding installation 
manual supplements to subpart F of the proposed rule because it largely 
relates to special or optional features of a home.
    Expanding Rooms Sec.  3285.502 (Relocated, Authority, Technical)--
HUD revised the section of the MHCC proposal to remove any circular 
reference and clarify that the section would be applicable to the 
support and anchoring systems only. HUD's modifications would also omit 
the MHCC proposal that addressed when manufacturer installation 
instructions are not available because the manufacturer would be 
required to provide the instructions with each new home.
    Installation of Optional Features (Construction)--HUD modified the 
MHCC proposal described below.
    Hinged Roofs and Eaves (Technical, Relocate `` See Sec.  
3285.801(f))--HUD would modify the MHCC proposal because hinged roof 
homes, depending on certain design characteristics, may be subject to 
special requirements such as Alternative Construction or other 
requirements to be developed in a separate proposed rule for on-site 
completion. Generally, hinged roof homes are not subject to Alternative 
Construction or requirements as long as the homes are designed to be 
located in Wind Zone 1, the completed hinged roof pitch is less than 7 
on 12, and fuel burning appliance flue penetrations are not above the 
hinge.
    Garden and Bay Windows (Construction)--HUD determined that the MHCC 
proposal provisions for garden or bay windows relate to construction of 
the home. Therefore, these optional features would be subject to 
Alternative Construction requirements or other requirements published 
by HUD for site completion of manufactured home construction and have 
not been included in the proposed Model Installation Standards.

[[Page 21513]]

    Awnings and Ramadas (Relocate, Technical)--HUD did not accept the 
MHCC proposal relating to self-supporting awnings because awnings by 
design are not self-supporting and are not required to safely support 
the home. HUD relocated the MHCC's proposed provisions regarding 
ramadas to subpart D of the proposed rule where special snow load 
conditions are addressed. Is there a need to include a definition and 
provisions for awnings in the Model Installation Standards? Are there 
self-supporting awnings available and currently being installed to 
ensure continued safety of manufactured home residents?
    Miscellaneous Lights and Fixtures (Relocate--Sec.  3285.702)--HUD 
relocated the MHCC proposal to Subpart H of the proposed rule relating 
to electrical systems and equipment.
    Ventilation Options--HUD did not incorporate this MHCC proposal 
because it is not clear what type of ventilation would be subject to 
the proposed requirements (whole house, attic, crawlspace, etc.). 
Further, HUD believes crawlspace ventilation is adequately covered 
elsewhere in the document (Sec.  3285.504) and whole house and attic 
ventilation are subject to the requirements of the MHCSS. Would there 
be ventilation provisions in addition to whole house, attic, or 
crawlspaces that require provisions in the Model Installation 
Standards?
    Optional Appliances Sec.  3285.503 (Technical)--Provisions for the 
installation of the optional appliances addressed in Subpart F are 
incorporated, with minor changes, from Chapter 9 of the MHCC proposal. 
HUD would modify the appliance provisions to require that appliances be 
listed or labeled for their intended use.
    Comfort Cooling Systems--HUD accepted the intent and most of the 
language in the MHCC's proposal for comfort cooling systems. However, 
HUD would revise the MHCC proposal to require appliance installation in 
accordance with the appliance manufacturer's instructions.
    Air Conditioners--HUD would incorporate by reference, ACCA Manual 
J, Residential Load Calculation, as one method for calculating sensible 
heat gain. ACCA Manual J is based on the ASHRAE Handbook of 
Fundamentals and is accepted for use in State and local building codes. 
In addition, HUD would modify the MHCC proposal to incorporate 
provisions for air conditioning or combination heating and air 
conditioning systems as required by the MHCSS (Sec.  3280.714). While 
the MHCSS require that a heating system be installed in each 
manufactured home, they do not require an air conditioning system in 
each home. HUD has made modifications to the MHCC's proposed 
installation standards to help these issues and maintain consistency 
with the MHCSS.
    Heat Pumps--HUD included provisions in the proposed rule to require 
that heat pumps be listed and installed in accordance with the 
appliance manufacturers instructions.
    Evaporative Coolers--HUD modified the MHCC proposal to require that 
evaporative cooling equipment be listed and installed in accordance 
with the appliance manufacturer's instructions.
    Fireplace and Wood-Stove Chimneys and Air Inlets--HUD accepted the 
MHCC's intent and most of the language proposed by the MHCC. HUD would 
modify the MHCC proposal to require that equipment be listed (Sec.  
3285.5) for use in manufactured homes and installed in accordance with 
the appliance manufacturer's instructions.
    Range, Cooktop, and Oven Venting--HUD accepted the MHCC's proposal 
but would make the Model Installation Standards applicable to all heat 
producing appliances that require completion of venting and change the 
title of the section to ``Venting.''
    Clothes Dryer Exhaust Duct System--HUD agrees with the intent of 
the MHCC proposal but would revise the MHCC proposal to require the 
exhaust duct system to conform to the appliance manufacturer's 
requirements of the MHCSS (Sec.  3280.708).
    Crawlspace Ventilation Sec.  3285.505 (Technical)--HUD agrees with 
the MHCC that crawlspaces with a perimeter enclosure need ventilation. 
HUD would modify the MHCC proposal to remove duplication of the 
exceptions for ground vapor barriers, and modify the ventilation 
requirements to be consistent with model building code requirements.

Subpart G--Ductwork and Plumbing and Fuel Supply Systems

    Subpart G includes provisions from chapters 7 and 10 of the MHCC's 
proposed installation standards. This subpart provides for installation 
work necessary to join sections of a multi-section home and make the 
home ready to connect the plumbing and fuel supply systems to 
utilities. Where retained in this subpart, HUD's Model Installation 
Standards incorporate the vast majority of the substance and intent of 
the applicable portions of the MHCC proposal. However, HUD would modify 
slightly some portions of the MHCC proposal and relocate them to 
subpart J, while a small number of MHCC proposals would be omitted from 
the proposed rule. These actions are described below.
    Field Assembly Sec.  3285.601 (New Section)--HUD would add a 
section that clearly requires home manufacturers to provide specific 
written instructions for installers on the proper field assembly of any 
ship loose parts necessary to join all sections of the home. HUD would 
further require that the instructions be designed in accordance with 
the applicable requirements of the MHCSS.
    Proper Procedures (Relocate--See Sec.  3285.905)--In general, HUD 
has concluded that utility connections are subject to State or LAHJ 
requirements. Since HUD does not have authority to regulate utility 
connections or determine that any particular requirements of an LAHJ 
are met, HUD relocated these MHCC-proposed installation standards to 
Subpart J.
    Water Supply Sec.  3285.603 (Relocate, Technical, Consistency)--In 
general, HUD accepted the intent and language of the MHCC's proposals 
related to water supply. HUD would revise certain provisions of this 
section as follows:
    Crossovers--The Model Installation Standards would require water 
line crossovers to be installed as designed by the home manufacturer. 
However, the manufacturer would be required to design the crossover 
consistent with the current requirements of the MHCSS (Sec.  3280.609).
    Maximum Supply Pressure and Reduction--HUD would modify the MHCC-
proposed requirement for a pressure-reducing valve by omitting the 
prescriptive requirement for a bypass-type valve. While HUD would not 
prohibit a bypass valve, specific requirements would be subject to the 
LAHJ.
    Mandatory Shutoff Valve--HUD revised the MHCC proposal editorially, 
but maintained the intent of the MHCC's proposal.
    Freezing Protection--HUD revised the MHCC proposal to maintain 
consistency with the requirements of the MHCSS and require that the 
manufacturer's installation instructions be designed consistent with 
the MHCSS (Sec.  3280.603).
    Testing Procedures--HUD revised the MHCC proposal to ensure that 
testing requirements at the site are consistent with the requirements 
of the MHCSS.
    HUD did not incorporate the figure in the MHCC proposal depicting a 
typical water line connection. In HUD's opinion, the figure shows an 
ill-advised location of the supply connection that subjects the water 
line and connections to physical damage. In addition, the figure would 
not clarify the

[[Page 21514]]

requirements of the Model Installation Standards.
    Drainage System Sec.  3285.604 (Relocate, Technical, Consistency)--
HUD relocated the MHCC's provisions for connection of the system to the 
sewer system to Subpart J. In general, HUD accepted the intent and 
language of the MHCC. However, HUD revised certain provisions of this 
section as follows:
    Crossovers--The Model Installation Standards would require water 
line crossovers to be installed as designed by the home manufacturer. 
However, the manufacturer would be required to design the crossover 
consistent with the current requirements set forth in the MHCSS (Sec.  
3280.610).
    Assembly and Support--HUD would necessarily limit the MHCC's 
assembly and support provisions to only the piping that is necessary to 
join all sections of the home. Proper assembly and pipe support 
requirements would be revised to maintain consistency with requirements 
of the MHCSS (Sec.  3280.608).
    Proper Slopes--Proper slope for the pipe would be revised to 
maintain consistency with requirements of the MHCSS (Sec.  3280.610).
    Testing Procedures--HUD revised the MHCC proposal to ensure that 
testing requirements at the site are consistent with the requirements 
of the MHCSS.
    Gas System Sec.  3285.605 (Relocate, Technical, Consistency)--
Certain MHCC proposals for conversion of appliances and startup 
procedures have been modified and relocated in Subpart J of the 
proposed rule. In addition, HUD did not accept the MHCC's 
recommendation requiring inspection of roof jacks as the proposed 
provision outlines a process that is procedural in nature and would be 
subject to HUD's Alternate Construction requirements. However, HUD will 
consider the proposal further in the development of installation 
program regulations to be issued separately.
    However, in general, HUD agrees with the intent and language of the 
MHCC's proposals. HUD would revise certain provisions of this section 
as follows:
    Crossovers--The Model Installation Standards would require gas line 
crossovers to be installed as designed by the home manufacturer. 
However, the manufacturer would be required to design the crossover 
consistent with the current requirements set forth in the MHCSS (Sec.  
3280.705).
    Testing Procedures--HUD revised the MHCC proposal to ensure that 
testing requirements at the site are consistent with the requirements 
of the MHCSS.
    Heating Oil Supply Tanks and Systems (Relocate--see Sec.  
3285.906)--Provisions for heating oil supply tanks and systems 
installed at the site are not within the scope of HUD's authority. 
However, HUD attempted to preserve the MHCC's intent by making the MHCC 
provisions recommendations in subpart J for inclusion in manufacturer 
installation instructions.
    Ductwork Connections Sec.  3285.606 (Technical, Consistency)--HUD 
accepted the great majority of the MHCC's proposed installation 
standards for ductwork connections. However, HUD added a specific 
requirement for crossover connection and design, and would modify the 
associated figures to remove the specificity of particular components 
or requirements to make the figures more universally applicable, and 
ensure that manufacturers can design crossovers that are compatible 
with the models and options produced. HUD would also require that the 
level of insulation for exposed ducts conform to the provisions of the 
MHCSS.

Subpart H--Electrical Systems and Equipment

    Subpart H includes certain provisions of Chapter 8 of the MHCC's 
proposed installation standards. Subpart H provides for the 
installation work necessary to join sections of a multi-section home 
and make the home ready to connect the electrical service. There may be 
information currently addressed by manufacturer's installation 
instructions that has not been evaluated by the MHCC or reviewed for 
inclusion in the MHCC's proposal. Therefore, HUD specifically invites 
comment on the substance of this subpart and related issues that should 
or should not be addressed herein.
    Electrical Crossovers Sec.  3285.701 (New Section)--HUD added 
provisions for completion of electrical crossovers as designed by the 
home manufacturer. This section requires manufacturers to design the 
crossovers consistent with requirements of subpart I of the MHCSS.
    Miscellaneous Lights and Fixtures Sec.  3285.702 (Technical)--HUD 
accepted the vast majority of the MHCC's provisions for miscellaneous 
lights and fixtures with only minimal or editorial changes.

Subpart I--Exterior and Interior Close Up

    Subpart I includes certain provisions of chapters 7 and 8 of the 
MHCC's proposed installation standards. Subpart I provides for the 
installation close up work necessary to join sections of a multi-
section home and complete final bottom board repairs.
    Exterior Close Up Sec.  3285.801 (Relocate, Technical, 
Consistency)--HUD accepted the vast majority of the MHCC's proposed 
installation standards for exterior close up. However, HUD would limit 
the exterior close up work to only the aspects necessary to join the 
sections of multi-section homes resulting in a weatherproof and 
structurally integrated home. HUD also included roofing materials as 
elements that require completion at the installation site.
    Structural Interconnection of Multi-section Homes Sec.  3285.802 
(Relocate, Technical, Consistency)--HUD accepted the intent and 
majority of language provided in the MHCC's proposal. HUD added the 
requirement that the manufacturer design interconnection be consistent 
with the structural requirements of the MHCSS. HUD also added 
provisions to require repair of gaps that may occur along the mate-line 
where structural interconnections are made.
    Interior Close Up Sec.  3285.803 (Relocate, Technical, 
Construction)--HUD accepted the majority of MHCC-recommended provisions 
for interior close up. However, HUD removed the MHCC's reference to 
unfinished gypsum wallboard, as HUD deems this to be construction and 
assembly of the manufactured home.
    Bottom Board Repair Sec.  3285.804 (Relocate, Technical)--HUD 
accepted the vast majority of the MHCC provisions for bottom board 
repair with minimal change. The MHCC proposal requiring an approved 
tape to be used to repair bottom board splits or tears, would be 
revised in the proposed rule to ``* * * tape or patches specifically 
designed for repairs of the bottom covering.''

Subpart J--Recommendations for Manufacturer's Installation Instructions

    The provisions of subpart J incorporate recommendations from the 
MHCC contained in several chapters. This subpart sets forth provisions 
regarding moving the manufactured home, permits, on-site structures, 
and site connection of utilities upon completion of home installation. 
The vast majority of recommendations from the MHCC concerning utility 
connections would establish requirements that may be governed by LAHJs 
and are not within the scope of HUD's authority. HUD has included most 
of the recommendations in the Model Installation Standards to provide 
helpful information to installers. HUD specifically invites comment on 
the inclusion of these provisions within the Model Installation 
Standards.

[[Page 21515]]

    Recommendations for Manufacturer Installation Instructions Sec.  
3285.901 (New section)--Generally, work completed at the site with 
respect to utility connections is governed by LAHJ requirements. 
Therefore, the Model Installation Standards do not attempt to address 
comprehensive utility connection requirements. However, HUD recommends 
in subpart J that manufacturers incorporate the following provisions in 
their installation instructions, in order to protect the manufactured 
home as constructed in accordance with the MHCSS and provide other 
general cautions to the installer.
    Moving the Manufactured Home to Location Sec.  3285.902 (Relocated, 
Authority)--HUD relocated the MHCC's proposals to address transporter 
access, positioning of the home, and encroachment and setback distances 
that may be enforced by LAHJs to Subpart J. HUD modified the proposal 
editorially and organized the MHCC proposed requirements related to 
moving the manufactured home to the installation site in this section.
    Permits, Alterations, and On-Site Structures Sec.  3285.903 
(Relocated, Authority)--HUD relocated MHCC recommended provisions for 
permits, alterations, and construction of on-site structures such as 
garages, carports, and decks to subpart I. While HUD does not have 
authority to regulate the permit process or the review and approval of 
alterations, and on-site structures, HUD included provisions for these 
aspects to be mentioned in home manufacturer installation instructions.
    Drainage Structures Sec.  3285.904 (Relocated, Authority)--HUD 
relocated MHCC-recommended provisions for drainage structures to 
subpart J. While HUD does not have authority to regulate the design and 
construction of ditches and culverts, HUD included appropriate 
provisions for manufacturers to provide recommendations in their home 
installation instructions.
    Utility System Connection Sec.  3285.905 (Relocated, Authority)--
HUD relocated the MHCC proposal to address the drainage connector size. 
In addition, HUD modified the proposal to remove reference to the 
requirements of an LAHJ, as such requirements are not under HUD's 
authority. HUD also relocated the MHCC proposal to address gas system 
orifices and regulators and modified the gas appliance startup 
procedures.
    HUD modified language regarding personnel requirements associated 
with gas appliance startup to make personnel subject to the 
requirements of the LAHJ. In addition, HUD would revise the testing 
procedure to recognize that not all appliances contain pilot lights and 
newer technologies can be verified to meet the MHCC's intent. HUD did 
not accept the MHCC proposal to set thermostats to desired temperature 
because subjective requirements cannot be enforced.
    Heating Oil Systems Sec.  3285.906 (Relocated, Authority)--HUD 
relocated the MHCC proposal to address the installation of heating oil 
systems and tanks to Subpart J, as such installations are not within 
HUD's authority. HUD modified the MHCC proposal to include a 
recommended reference standard (NFPA 31) that may be used in areas 
without an LAHJ or in areas without applicable requirements. HUD 
revised the MHCC's heating oil system installation recommendations and 
would make such recommendations subject to specific requirements of an 
LAHJ. However, the model provisions would become more of a necessity in 
areas without jurisdictions or applicable requirements. HUD would 
incorporate the NFPA 31 standard for reference in such instances.
    HUD did not incorporate the MHCC proposal relating to a centralized 
oil distribution system because the Model Installation Standards would 
not establish standards for manufactured home communities that may have 
a storage tank for centralized distribution of oil within the 
community. Other MHCC-recommended provisions for oil storage tanks have 
been incorporated into the Model Installation Standards. HUD would 
revise the MHCC proposal related to storage tank leak test procedures 
by recognizing that model provisions are necessary for areas without 
jurisdictions or without requirements, and would incorporate the 
consensus standard, NFPA 31 for such instances.

VI. Findings and Certifications

Regulatory Planning and Review

    The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) reviewed this rule under 
Executive Order 12866 (entitled ``Regulatory Planning and Review''). 
OMB determined that this rule is a ``significant regulatory action'' as 
defined in section 3(f) of the order (although not an economically 
significant regulatory action, as provided under section 3(f)(1) of the 
order). Any changes made to the rule subsequent to its submission to 
OMB are identified in the docket file, which is available for public 
inspection in the Regulations Division, Room 10276, Office of General 
Counsel, Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 Seventh 
Street, SW, Washington, DC 20410-0500.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    The proposed information collection requirement contained in Sec.  
3285.2 has been submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) 
for review under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-
3520). Under this Act, an agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a 
person is not required to respond to, a collection of information 
unless the collection displays a valid control number. OMB has issued 
HUD the control number 2502-0253 for the information collection 
requirements under the current Manufactured Housing Construction and 
Safety Standards Program, which already require manufacturer 
installation instructions in 24 CFR part 3280.306.
    The public reporting burden for this collection of information is 
estimated to include the time for reviewing the instructions, searching 
existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and 
completing and reviewing the collection of information.
    The following table provides Information on the estimated public 
reporting burden:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        Number of      Responses per    Total  annual      Hours per
                       Information collection                          respondents       respondent       responses         response       Total  hours
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Manufacturers Installation Instructions*...........................              78                1               78              250          19,500
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*Manufacturer installation instructions are already required. This public burden estimate is for a one-time revision of its instructions to ensure the
  Model Installation Standards requirements would be met.

In accordance with 5 CFR 1320.8(d)(1), HUD is soliciting comments from 
members of the public and affected agencies concerning the proposed 
collection of information to:

[[Page 21516]]

    (1) Evaluate whether the proposed collection of information is 
necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, 
including whether the information will have practical utility;
    (2) Evaluate the accuracy of the agency's estimate of the burden of 
the proposed collection of information;
    (3) Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to 
be collected; and
    (4) Minimize the burden of the collection of information on those 
who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated 
collection techniques or other forms of information technology (e.g., 
permitting electronic submission of responses).
    Interested persons are invited to submit comments regarding the 
information collection requirements in this proposal. Under the 
provisions of 5 CFR part 1320, OMB is required to make a decision 
concerning this collection of information between 30 and 60 days after 
today's publication date. Therefore, any comment on the information 
collection requirements is best assured of having its full effect if 
OMB receives the comment within 30 days of today's publication. 
However, this time frame does not affect the deadline for comments to 
the agency on the proposed rule, however. Comments must refer to the 
proposal by name and docket number (FR-4928-P-01) and must be sent to:

Mark D. Menchik, HUD Desk Officer, Office of Management and Budget, New 
Executive Office Building, Washington, DC 20503, [email protected];

     and

Kathleen O. McDermott, Reports Liaison Officer, Office of the Assistant 
Secretary for Housing--Federal Housing Commissioner, Department of 
Housing and Urban Development, 451 Seventh Street, SW., Room 9116, 
Washington, DC 20410-8000.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 
1531-1538) (UMRA) establishes requirements for Federal agencies to 
assess the effects of their regulatory actions on State, local, and 
tribal governments, and on the private sector. This proposed rule does 
not impose any Federal mandate on any State, local, or tribal 
government, or on the private sector, within the meaning of UMRA.

Environmental Review

    A Finding of No Significant Impact with respect to the environment 
has been made in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 50, 
which implement section 102(2)(C) of the National Environmental Policy 
Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)(C)). The Finding of No Significant 
Impact is available for public inspection between the hours of 8 a.m. 
and 5 p.m. weekdays in the Regulations Division, Office of General 
Counsel, Room 10276, Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 
Seventh Street, SW, Washington, DC 20410-0500.

Executive Order 13132, Federalism

    Executive Order 13132 (entitled ``Federalism'') prohibits, to the 
extent practicable and permitted by law, an agency from promulgating a 
regulation that has Federalism implications and either imposes 
substantial direct compliance costs on State and local governments and 
is not required by statute, or preempts State law, unless the relevant 
requirements of section 6 of the Executive Order are met. This rule 
does not have Federalism implications and does not impose substantial 
direct compliance costs on State and local governments or preempt State 
law within the meaning of the Executive Order.
    HUD is required by statute to establish Model Manufactured Home 
Installation Standards through the National Manufactured Housing 
Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C. 5401-5426). 
However, in accordance with the language of the Act and as set forth in 
Sec.  3285.1 of this proposed rule, these Model Installation Standards 
are not preemptive but rather establish minimum levels of protection to 
residents of manufactured homes.
    The Model Installation Standards, without the implementing 
regulations to be developed for the Federal installation program, 
establish requirements for installation instructions but do not have an 
impact on State-based installation programs and standards. These 
minimum requirements do not affect governmental relationships or 
distribution of power. This proposed rule does not establish any 
responsibilities for States and localities but rather establishes 
minimum requirements to be used by home manufacturers in the design of 
manufactured home installation instructions. Therefore, HUD has 
determined that the Model Installation Standards, if adopted, have no 
Federalism implications that warrant the preparation of a Federalism 
Assessment in accordance with Executive Order 13132.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) requires that 
a regulation that has a significant economic impact on a substantial 
number of small entities, small businesses, or small organizations 
include an initial regulatory flexibility analysis describing the 
regulation's impact on small entities. Such an analysis need not be 
undertaken if the agency has certified that the regulation will not 
have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities. 5 U.S.C. 605(b).
    HUD has conducted a material and labor cost impact analysis for 
this rule. The completed cost analysis determines the cost difference 
between a typical installation conforming to the Model Installation 
Standards from an installation completed in accordance with current 
manufacturer installation instructions. A typical installation is 
defined by the traditional installation method consisting of concrete 
footings, masonry piers, and ground anchors. The cost difference was 
found to vary slightly depending upon whether the home is a single-
section or multi-section home.
    The cost impact for a single-section home is determined to be about 
$133 per home and the cost impact for a multi-section home is 
determined to be about $151 per home. Current manufactured home 
production is about 135,000 homes, consisting of about 40,500 single-
section homes and 94,500 multi-section homes. The combined average cost 
impact is determined to be approximately $145.60 per home multiplied by 
a total of 135,000 homes produced in a year; this totals about $19.5 
million annually.
    Based on a current installation cost of about $5000 for a single-
wide home, the $133 increase represents an increase of about 2.7% from 
the current cost of installing a single section home. Similarly, the 
current cost of installing a multi-section home is about $8,000. 
Therefore, the cost impact of $151 per multi-section home represents an 
increase of about 1.9% from the current cost. These estimated costs and 
cost impacts do not represent a significant economic effect on either 
an industry-wide or per-home basis.
    This small increase in total cost associated with this proposed 
rule would not impose a significant burden for a small business. The 
rule would regulate establishments primarily engaged in making 
manufactured homes (NAICS 32991) and the mobile home setup and tie-down 
establishments (installers) included within the

[[Page 21517]]

definition of all other special trade contractors (NAICS 23599). Of the 
222 firms included under the NAICS 32991 definition, 198 are small 
manufacturers that fall below the small business threshold of 500 
employees. Of the 31,320 firms included under NAICS 23599 definition, 
only 53 firms exceed the small business threshold of 500 employees and 
none of these are primarily mobile home setup and tie-down 
establishments. The rule, thus, would affect a substantial number of 
small entities. However, the home manufacturers would only be subject 
to an associated labor cost necessary to revise its instructions and 
the home installer would be subject to increased labor and material 
costs that would be passed through to the end user (manufactured home 
purchaser). Moreover, because the great majority of manufacturers and 
all installers are considered small entities, there would not be any 
disproportional impact to small entities. Therefore, although this rule 
would affect a substantial number of small entities, it would not have 
a significant economic impact on them.
    The Secretary, in accordance with the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 
U.S.C. 605(b)), has reviewed and approved this proposed rule and in so 
doing certifies that the rule would not have a significant economic 
impact on a substantial number of small entities. The proposed rule 
does not provide an exemption for small entities. This proposed rule 
does not establish any responsibilities for installers but rather 
establishes model requirements used by manufacturers in the design of 
manufactured home installation instructions. However the upcoming 
installation program, establishing procedural and enforcement 
regulations for the Installation Standards will need further review 
under the requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    Notwithstanding HUD's determination that this rule would not have a 
significant economic effect on a substantial number of small entities, 
HUD specifically invites comments regarding any less burdensome 
alternatives to this rule that will meet HUD's and Federal statutory 
objectives.

Catalogue of Federal Domestic Assistance

    The Catalogue of Federal Domestic Assistance number is 14.171.

List of Subjects

24 CFR Part 3280

    Housing standards, Manufactured homes, Construction, Safety.

24 CFR Part 3285

    Housing standards, Manufactured homes, Installation.

    Accordingly, for the reasons discussed in this preamble, HUD 
proposes to amend 24 CFR part 3280 and to add 24 CFR part 3285, as 
follows:

PART 3280--MANUFACTURED HOME CONSTRUCTION AND SAFETY STANDARDS

    1. The authority citation for 24 CFR part 3280 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 42 U.S.C. 3535(d), 5403, 5404, and 5424.

    2. In Sec.  3280.302, add the definition of anchor assembly in 
alphabetical order and revise the definitions of anchoring equipment, 
anchoring system, diagonal tie, ground anchor and stabilizing devices 
to read as follows:


Sec.  3280.302  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Anchor assembly means any device or other means designed to 
transfer home anchoring loads to the ground.
    Anchoring equipment means ties, straps, cables, turnbuckles, 
chains, and other approved components, including tensioning devices 
that are used to secure a manufactured home to anchor assemblies.
    Anchoring system means a combination of anchoring equipment and 
anchor assemblies that will, when properly designed and installed, 
resist the uplift, overturning, and lateral forces on the manufactured 
home.
    Diagonal tie means a tie intended to resist horizontal or shear 
forces, but which may resist vertical, uplift, and overturning forces.
* * * * *
    Ground anchor means a specific anchoring assembly device designed 
to transfer home anchoring loads to the ground.
* * * * *
    Stabilizing devices means all components of the anchoring and 
support systems, such as piers, footings, ties, anchoring equipment, 
anchoring assemblies, or any other equipment, materials, and methods of 
construction that support and secure the manufactured home to the 
ground.
* * * * *
    3. In Sec.  3280.306, revise paragraph (b)(2)(iv) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  3280.306  Windstorm protection.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (iv) That ground anchors should be installed to their full depth, 
and stabilizer plates must be installed in accordance with the ground 
anchor listing or certification to provide required resistance to 
overturning and sliding.
* * * * *
    4. In chapter XX, add part 3285 to read as follows:

PART 3285--MODEL MANUFACTURED HOME INSTALLATION STANDARDS

Subpart A--General
Sec.
3285.1 Administration.
3285.2 Manufacturer installation instructions.
3285.3 Alterations during initial installation.
3285.4 Referenced publications.
3285.5 Definitions.
Subpart B--Pre-Installation Considerations
3285.101 Installation of manufactured homes in flood hazard areas.
3285.102 Design zone maps.
3285.103 Moving manufactured home to location.
3285.104 Permits, other alterations, and on site structures.
Subpart C--Site Preparation
3285.201 Soil conditions.
3285.202 Soil classifications and bearing capacity.
3285.203 Drainage.
3285.204 Ground moisture control.
Subpart D--Foundations
3285.301 General.
3285.302 Flood hazard areas.
3285.303 Piers.
3285.304 Configuration.
3285.305 Clearance under homes.
3285.306 Design procedures for concrete block piers.
3285.307 Perimeter support piers.
3285.308 Manufactured piers.
3285.309 Elevated homes.
3285.310 Pier locations and spacing.
3285.311 Required perimeter supports.
3285.312 Footings.
3285.313 Combination systems.
3285.314 Permanent foundations.
3285.315 Special snow load conditions.
Subpart E--Anchorage Against Wind
3285.401 Anchoring instructions.
3285.402 Ground anchor installations.
3285.403 Sidewall, over-the-roof, mate-line, and shear wall straps.
3285.404 Severe climatic conditions.
3285.405 Severe wind zones.
3285.406 Flood hazard areas.
Subpart F--Optional Features
3285.501 Home installation manual supplements.
3285.502 Expanding rooms.
3285.503 Optional appliances.
3285.504 Skirting.
3285.505 Crawlspace ventilation.
Subpart G--Ductwork and Plumbing and Fuel Supply Systems
3285.601 Field assembly.

[[Page 21518]]

3285.602 Utility connections.
3285.603 Water supply.
3285.604 Drainage system.
3285.605 Fuel supply system.
3285.606 Ductwork connections.
Subpart H--Electrical Systems and Equipment
3285.701 Electrical systems.
3285.702 Miscellaneous lights and fixtures.
3285.703 Smoke alarms.
3285.704 Telephone and cable TV.
Subpart I--Exterior and Interior Close-Up
3285.801 Exterior close-up.
3285.802 Structural interconnection of multi-section homes.
3285.803 Interior close-up.
3285.804 Bottom board repair.
Subpart J--Recommendations for Manufacturer Installation Instructions
3285.901 Recommendations for manufacturer installation instructions.
3285.902 Moving manufactured home to location.
3285.903 Permits, alterations, and on-site structures.
3285.904 Drainage structures.
3285.905 Utility systems connection.
3285.906 Heating oil systems.
3285.907 Telephone and cable TV.

    Authority: 42 U.S.C. 3535(d), 5403, 5404, and 5424.

Subpart A--General


Sec.  3285.1  Administration.

    (a) Scope. These Model Installation Standards provide requirements 
for the initial installation of new manufactured homes in applicable 
States. Work necessary to join all sections of a multi-section home, 
such as work identified in subparts G, H, and I, is not considered 
assembly or construction of the home, although the design of those 
elements of a manufactured home must comply with the MHCHSS.
    (1) States that choose to operate an installation program for 
manufactured homes in lieu of the Federal program must implement 
installation standards that provide protection to its residents that 
equals or exceeds the protection provided by these Model Installation 
Standards.
    (2) In States that do not choose to operate their own installation 
program for manufactured homes, these Model Installation Standards 
serve as the minimum standards for manufactured home installations.
    (3) Manufacturer installation instructions, as set forth in Sec.  
3285.2, must provide protection to residents of manufactured homes that 
equals or exceeds the protection provided by these Model Installation 
Standards.
    (b) The standards set forth herein have been established to 
accomplish certain basic objectives and are not to be construed as 
relieving manufacturers, retailers, installers, or other parties of 
responsibility for compliance with applicable ordinances, codes, and 
regulations.
    (c) State installation standards. (1) In States with an approved 
installation program, the State may establish or permit more stringent 
installation standards that provide a level of protection that equals 
or exceeds these Model Installation Standards.
    (2) In States without an approved installation program, the 
Secretary will implement and enforce these Model Installation Standards 
as minimums. The Secretary will permit more stringent installation 
standards as long as the level of protection provided by those 
standards equals or exceeds these Model Installation Standards.
    (d) Applicability. The manufactured homes covered by this standard 
must comply with requirements of the U.S. Department of Housing and 
Urban Development's (HUD's) Federal Manufactured Home Construction and 
Safety Standards (MHCSS) Program, as set forth in 24 CFR part 3280, 
Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards, and 24 CFR part 
3282, Manufactured Home Procedural and Enforcement Regulations. The 
requirements of this part do not apply to homes installed on site-built 
permanent foundations when the manufacturer certifies the home in 
accordance with Sec.  3282.12 of this chapter.


Sec.  3285.2  Manufacturer installation instructions.

    A manufacturer must provide with each new manufactured home, DAPIA-
approved designs and instructions required by these Model Installation 
Standards for the installation of manufactured homes. The manufacturer 
installation instructions must provide protection to residents of the 
manufactured homes that equals or exceeds the protection provided by 
these Model Installation Standards and must not take the manufactured 
home out of compliance with the Federal Manufactured Home Construction 
and Safety Standards. Installers must follow the DAPIA-approved 
manufacturer's installation instructions for those aspects covered by 
these Model Installation Standards.


Sec.  3285.3  Alterations during initial installation.

    Additions, modifications, or replacement or removal of any 
equipment that affects the installation of the home, made by the 
manufacturer, retailer or installer prior to completion of the 
installation by an installer must equal or exceed the protections and 
requirements of these Model Installation Standards, the MHCSS (24 CFR 
part 3280) and the Manufactured Home Procedural and Enforcement 
Regulations (24 CFR part 3282). Alterations, as defined in Sec.  3282.7 
of this chapter, must not affect the ability of the basic manufactured 
home to comply with the MHCSS and must not impose additional loads to 
the manufactured home or its foundation without design by a registered 
professional engineer or registered architect, or being expressly 
included in the manufactured home manufacturer DAPIA-approved designs 
or installation instructions.


Sec.  3285.4  Referenced publications.

    Incorporation by reference: (a) The specifications, standards and 
codes of the following organizations are incorporated by reference 
pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51 as though set forth in 
full. The incorporation by reference of these standards has been 
approved by the Director of the Federal Register. Reference standards 
have the same force and effect as these Model Installation Standards 
except that whenever reference standards and these Standards are 
inconsistent, the requirements of these Standards prevail to the extent 
of the inconsistency.
    (b) The abbreviations and addresses of organizations issuing the 
referenced standards appear below. Reference standards that are not 
available from their producer organizations may be obtained from the 
Office of Manufactured Housing Programs, Room 9164, U.S. Department of 
Housing and Urban Development, 451 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC 
20410.

ACCA Publication. Air Conditioning Contractors of America, 2800 
Shirlington Road, Suite 300, Arlington, VA 22206.
    ACCA Manual J, Residential Load Calculation, 8th Edition.

ASHRAE Publication. American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air 
Conditioning Engineers, 1791 Tullie Circle, NE., Atlanta, GA 30329-
2305.
    ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals, 1997.

ASTM Publications. American Society for Testing and Materials, 100 Barr 
Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959.
    ASTM C 90, Standard Specification for Loadbearing Concrete Masonry 
Units, 2002.
    ASTM D 1586, Test Method for

[[Page 21519]]

Penetration Test and Split-Barrel Sampling of Soils, 1999.
    ASTM D 2487, Practice for Classification of Soils for Engineering 
Purposes (Unified Soil Classification System), 2000.
    ASTM D 2488, Practice for Description and Identification of Soils 
(Visual-Manual Procedure), 2000.
    ASTM D 3953, Standard Specification for Strapping, Flat Steel and 
Seals, 1997.

AWPA Publications. American Wood-Preservers' Association, P.O. Box 
5690, Granbury, TX 76049.
    AWPA C2, Standard for the Preservative Treatment of Lumber, Timber, 
Bridge Ties and Mine Ties, by Pressure Processes, 2001.
    AWPA C9, Plywood--Preservative Treatment by Pressure Processes, 
2000.

NFPA Publications. National Fire Protection Association, 1 Batterymarch 
Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471.
    NFPA 31, Standard for the Installation of Oil Burning Equipment, 
2001.
    NFPA 501A, Standard for Fire Safety Criteria for Manufactured Home 
Installations, Sites, and Communities, 2003.

SEI/ASCE Publication. Structural Engineering Institute/American Society 
of Civil Engineers, 1801 Alexander Bell Dr., Reston, VA 20191.
    SEI/ASCE 32-01, Design and Construction of Frost Protected Shallow 
Foundations, 2001.

U.L. Publication. Underwriters Laboratories, 333 Pfingsten Road, 
Northbrook, Illinois 60062.
    UL 181, Factory Made Air Ducts and Connectors, 1998.

U.S. Government Publications. U.S. Government Printing Office, 
Washington, DC 20402.
    FEMA 85, Manufactured Home Installation in Flood Hazard Areas, 
1985.
    Title 24, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 3280, Manufactured Home 
Construction and Safety Standards.
    Title 24, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 3282, Manufactured Home 
Procedural and Enforcement Regulations.
    Title 44, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 59, General Provisions.
    Title 44, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 60, Criteria for Land 
Management and Use.


Sec.  3285.5  Definitions.

    The definitions contained in this section apply to the terms used 
in these Model Installation Standards. Where terms are not included, 
common usage of the terms apply. The Definitions are as follows:
    Anchor assembly. Any device or other means designed to transfer 
home anchoring loads to the ground.
    Anchoring equipment. Ties, straps, cables, turnbuckles, chains, and 
other approved components, including tensioning devices that are used 
to secure a manufactured home to anchor assemblies.
    Anchoring system. A combination of anchoring equipment and anchor 
assemblies that will, when properly designed and installed, resist the 
uplift, overturning, and lateral forces on the manufactured home.
    Approved. When used in connection with any material, appliance or 
construction, means complying with the requirements of the Department 
of Housing and Urban Development.
    Arid region. An area subject to 15 inches or less of annual 
rainfall.
    Base flood. The flood having a one percent chance of being equaled 
or exceeded in any given year.
    Base flood elevation (BFE). The elevation of the base flood, 
including wave height, relative to the datum specified on a LAHJ's 
flood hazard map.
    Comfort cooling certificate. A certificate permanently affixed to 
an interior surface of the home specifying the factory design and 
preparations for air conditioning the manufactured home.
    Crossovers. Utility interconnections in multi-section homes that 
are located where the sections are joined. Crossover connections 
include heat ducting, electrical circuits, and water pipes, drain 
plumbing, and gas lines.
    Design Approval Primary Inspection Agency (DAPIA). A State or 
private organization that has been accepted by the Secretary in 
accordance with the requirements of part 3282, subpart H of this 
chapter, which evaluates and approves or disapproves manufactured home 
designs and quality control procedures.
    Diagonal tie. A tie intended to resist horizontal or shear forces, 
but which may resist vertical, uplift, and overturning forces.
    Flood hazard area. The greater of either:
    (1) The special flood hazard area shown on the flood insurance rate 
map; or
    (2) The area subject to flooding during the design flood and shown 
on a LAHJ's flood hazard map, or otherwise legally designated.
    Flood hazard map. A map delineating the flood hazard area and 
adopted by a LAHJ.
    Footing. That portion of the support system that transmits loads 
directly to the soil.
    Ground anchor. A specific anchoring assembly device designed to 
transfer home anchoring loads to the ground.
    Installation instructions. DAPIA-approved instructions provided by 
the home manufacturer that accompany each new manufactured home and 
detail the home manufacturer requirements for support and anchoring 
systems, and other work completed at the installation site to comply 
with these Model Installation Standards and the Manufactured Home 
Construction and Safety Standards in 24 CFR part 3280.
    Installation standards. Reasonable specifications for the 
installation of a new manufactured home, at the place of occupancy, to 
ensure proper siting, the joining of all sections of the home, and the 
installation of stabilization, support, or anchoring systems.
    Labeled. A label, symbol, or other identifying mark of a nationally 
recognized testing laboratory, inspection agency, or other organization 
concerned with product evaluation that maintains periodic inspection of 
production of labeled equipment or materials, and by whose labeling is 
indicated compliance with nationally recognized standards or tests to 
determine suitable usage in a specified manner.
    Listed or certified. Included in a list published by a nationally 
recognized testing laboratory, inspection agency, or other organization 
concerned with product evaluation that maintains periodic inspection of 
production of listed equipment or materials, and whose listing states 
either that the equipment or material meets nationally recognized 
standards or has been tested and found suitable for use in a specified 
manner.
    Local authority having jurisdiction (LAHJ). The State, city, 
county, city and county, municipality, utility, or organization that 
has local responsibilities that must be complied with during the 
installation of a manufactured home and those local responsibilities 
are outside the coverage of the MHCSS or these Model Installation 
Standards.
    Lowest floor. The floor of the lowest enclosed area of a 
manufactured home. An unfinished or flood resistant enclosure, used 
solely for vehicle parking, home access or limited storage, must not be 
considered the lowest floor, provided the enclosed area is not 
constructed so as to render the home in

[[Page 21520]]

violation of the flood-related provisions of this standard.
    Manufactured home. A structure, transportable in one or more 
sections, which, in the traveling mode, is eight body feet or more in 
width or forty body feet or more in length, or, when erected on site, 
is three hundred twenty or more square feet, and which is built on a 
permanent chassis and designed to be used as a dwelling with or without 
a permanent foundation when connected to the required utilities, and 
includes the plumbing, heating, air-conditioning, and electrical 
systems contained therein. The term also includes any structure which 
meets all the requirements of this paragraph except the size 
requirements and with respect to which the manufacturer voluntarily 
files a certification pursuant to Sec.  3282.13 of this chapter and 
complies with the installation standards established under this part 
and the construction and safety standards in part 3280 of this chapter; 
but such term does not include any self-propelled recreational vehicle.
    Manufactured home gas supply connector. A listed connector designed 
for connecting the manufactured home to the gas supply source.
    Manufactured home site. A designated parcel of land designed for 
the installation of one manufactured home for the exclusive use of the 
occupants of the home.
    Pier. That portion of the support system between the footing and 
the manufactured home, exclusive of shims. Types of piers include, but 
are not limited to:
    (1) Manufactured steel stands;
    (2) Pressure-treated wood;
    (3) Manufactured concrete stands;
    (4) Concrete blocks; and
    (5) Portions of foundation walls.
    Ramada. Any freestanding roof or shade structure, installed or 
erected above a manufactured home or any portion thereof.
    Secretary. The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, or an 
official of HUD delegated the authority of the Secretary with respect 
to title VI of Pub. L. 93-383.
    Skirting. A weather-resistant material used to enclose the 
perimeter, under the living area of the home, from the bottom of the 
manufactured home to grade.
    Stabilizing devices. All components of the anchoring and support 
systems, such as piers, footings, ties, anchoring equipment, anchoring 
assemblies, or any other equipment, materials and methods of 
construction, that support and secure the manufactured home to the 
ground.
    State. Each of the several States, the District of Columbia, the 
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, the Canal Zone, 
and American Samoa.
    Support system. Pilings, columns, footings, piers, foundation 
walls, shims, and any combination thereof that, when properly 
installed, support the manufactured home.
    Tie. Straps, cable, or securing devices used to connect the 
manufactured home to anchoring assemblies.
    Ultimate load. The absolute maximum magnitude of load that a 
component or system can sustain, limited only by failure.
    Utility connection. The connection of the manufactured home to 
utilities that include, but are not limited to, electricity, water, 
sewer, gas, or fuel oil.
    Vertical tie. A tie intended to resist uplifting and overturning 
forces.
    Working load. The maximum recommended load that may be exerted on a 
component or system. The ultimate load of a component or system divided 
by an appropriate factor of safety.

Subpart B--Pre-Installation Considerations


Sec.  3285.101  Installation of manufactured homes in flood hazard 
areas.

    (a) Definitions. Except to the extent otherwise defined in subpart 
A, the terms used in this subpart are as defined in 44 CFR 59.1 of the 
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) regulations.
    (b) Applicability. The provisions of this section apply to the 
initial installation of new manufactured homes located wholly or partly 
within the flood hazard area.
    (c) Pre-installation considerations. Prior to the initial 
installation of a new manufactured home, the installer is responsible 
to determine whether the manufactured home site lies wholly or partly 
within a special flood hazard area as shown on the LAHJ's Flood 
Insurance Rate Map, Flood Boundary and Floodway Map, or Flood Hazard 
Boundary Map. If so located, the map and supporting studies adopted by 
the LAHJ should be used to determine the flood hazard zone and base 
flood elevation at the site.
    (d) General elevation and foundation requirements. (1) Methods and 
practices. Manufactured homes located wholly or partly within special 
flood hazard areas must be installed using methods and practices that 
minimize flood damage during the base flood, in accordance with the 
LAHJ, 44 CFR 60.3(a) through (e), as applicable, and other provisions 
of 44 CFR referenced by those paragraphs.
    (2) Related guidance. Refer to FEMA 85-85, Manufactured Home 
Installation in Flood Hazard Areas.


Sec.  3285.102  Design zone maps.

    The design zone maps are those identified in part 3280 of this 
chapter.
    (a) Wind zone. Manufactured homes must not be installed in a wind 
zone that exceeds the design wind loads for which the home has been 
designed as evidenced by the wind zone indicated on the home's data 
plate.
    (b) Roof load zone. Manufactured homes must not be located in a 
roof load zone that exceeds the design roof load for which the home has 
been designed as evidenced by the roof load zone indicated on the 
home's data plate. Refer to Sec.  3285.315 for Special Snow Load 
Conditions.
    (c) Thermal zone. Manufactured homes must not be installed in a 
thermal zone that exceeds the thermal zone for which the home has been 
designed as evidenced by the thermal zone indicated on the heating/
cooling certificate and insulation zone map. The manufacturer may 
provide the heating/cooling information and insulation zone map on the 
home's data plate.


Sec.  3285.103  Moving manufactured home to location.

    Refer to Sec.  3285.902 for considerations related to moving the 
manufactured home to the site of installation.


Sec.  3285.104  Permits, other alterations, and on-site structures.

    Refer to Sec.  3285.903 for considerations related to permitting, 
other alterations and on-site structures.

Subpart C--Site Preparation


Sec.  3285.201  Soil conditions.

    To help prevent settling or sagging, the foundation must be 
constructed on firm, undisturbed soil or fill compacted to at least 90 
percent of its maximum relative density. All organic material subject 
to decay, such as grass, roots, twigs, and wood scraps must be removed 
in areas where footings are to be placed.


Sec.  3285.202  Soil classifications and bearing capacity.

    (a) The soil classification and bearing capacity of the soil must 
be determined before the foundation is constructed and anchored against 
the wind. The soil classification and bearing capacity must be 
determined by:
    (1) Soil tests. Soil tests that are in accordance with generally 
accepted engineering practice; or
    (2) Soil records. Soil records on file with the applicable LAHJ; or

[[Page 21521]]

    (3) Soil classifications and bearing capacities. If the soil class 
or bearing capacity cannot be determined by test or soil records, but 
its type can be identified, the soil classification, allowable 
pressures, and torque values in the following table must be used.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Soil classification
-------------------------------------------------                    Allowable     Blow count     Torque  probe
                                  ASTM D2487 or   Soil description    pressure     ASTM D1586     \3\ value \4\
      Classification No.              D2488                          (psf) \1\                    (inch-pounds)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.............................  ................  Rock or hard pan        4000+  ..............  ...............
2.............................  GW, GP, SW, SP,   Sandy gravel and         2000             40+            (\6\)
                                 GM, SM.           gravel; very
                                                   dense and/or
                                                   cemented sands;
                                                   course gravel/
                                                   cobbles;
                                                   preloaded
                                                   silts, clays
                                                   and coral.
3.............................  GC, SC, ML, CL..  Sand; silty              1500           24-39          351-550
                                                   sand; clayey
                                                   sand; silty
                                                   gravel; medium
                                                   dense course
                                                   sands; sandy
                                                   gravel; and
                                                   very stiff
                                                   silt, sand
                                                   clays.
4A............................  CG, MH \2\......  Loose to medium          1000           18-23          276-350
                                                   dense sands;
                                                   firm to stiff
                                                   clays and
                                                   silts; alluvial
                                                   fills.
4B............................  CH, MH \2\......  Loose sands;             1000           12-17          175-275
                                                   firm clays;
                                                   alluvial fills.
5.............................  OL, OH, PT......  Uncompacted             (\7\)            0-11           (\5\)
                                                   fill; peat;
                                                   organic clays.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
\1\ The values provided in this table have not been adjusted for overburden pressure, embedment depth, water
  table height, or settlement problems.
\2\ For soils classified as CH or MH, without either torque probe values or blow count test results, selected
  anchors must be rated for a 4B soil.
\3\ The torque test probe is a device for measuring the torque value of soils to assist in evaluating the
  holding capacity of the soil in which the ground anchor is placed. The shaft must be of suitable length for
  the full depth of the ground anchor.
\4\ The torque value is a measure of the load resistance provided by the soil when subject to the turning or
  twisting force of the probe.
\5\ Less than 175.
\6\ More than 550.
\7\ Refer to 3285.202(b).

    (b) If the soil appears to be composed of peat, organic clays, or 
uncompacted fill or appears to have unusual conditions, a registered 
professional geologist, registered professional engineer, or registered 
architect must be consulted and a report provided to determine the soil 
classification and maximum allowable soil bearing capacity.


Sec.  3285.203  Drainage.

    (a) Purpose. Drainage must be provided that prevents water build-up 
under the home, shifting or settling of the foundation, dampness in the 
home, damage to siding and bottom board, buckling of walls and floors, 
and problems with the operation of doors and windows.
    (b) The home site must be graded to permit water to drain from 
under the home. Refer to Figure 3285.203.
    (c) All drainage must be diverted away from the home and must slope 
a minimum of one-half inch per foot away from the foundation for the 
first 10 feet. Where property lines, walls, slopes, or other physical 
conditions prohibit this slope, the site must be provided with drains 
or swales or otherwise graded to drain water away from the structure.
    (d) Sloped site considerations. The home, where sited, must be 
protected from surface runoff from the surrounding area.
    (e) Refer to Sec.  3285.904 for drainage structures that may be 
used to drain surface runoff.

BILLING CODE 4210-27-P

[[Page 21522]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.000

BILLING CODE 4210-27-C
    (f) Gutters and downspouts. When gutters and downspouts are 
installed, the runoff must be directed away from the home.

[[Page 21523]]

Sec.  3285.204  Ground moisture control.

    (a) Vapor retarder. If the space under the home is to be enclosed 
with skirting or other material, a vapor retarder that keeps ground 
moisture out of the home must be installed except in arid regions with 
dry soil conditions (refer to Sec.  3285.505).
    (b) Acceptable types of ground cover. A minimum of six millimeter 
polyethylene sheeting or its equivalent must be used.
    (c) Proper installation. (1) The entire area under the home, except 
for areas under open decks, porches, or recessed entries, must be 
covered with the vapor retarder as noted in Sec.  3285.204(a) and must 
be overlapped at least 12 inches at all joints.
    (2) The ground cover may be placed directly beneath footings, or 
otherwise installed around footers, anchors, and other obstructions 
where footings are permitted at-grade.
    (3) Minor voids or tears in the vapor retarder do not require 
repair.

Subpart D--Foundations


Sec.  3285.301  General.

    (a) Foundations for manufactured home installations must be 
designed and constructed in accordance with this subpart and must be 
based on site conditions, home design features, and the loads the home 
was designed to withstand as shown on the home's data plate.
    (b) Foundation systems that are not pier and footing type 
configurations are permissible provided they are verified by 
engineering data and designed in accordance with Sec.  3285.301(d) 
consistent with the design loads of the Manufactured Home Construction 
and Safety Standards. Pier and footing installations proposing 
different detailed specifications other than the pier and footing 
requirements provided in subpart D (such as block size, section width, 
loads, and spacing) are also permissible provided they are verified by 
engineering data and comply with Sec.  3285.301(d) consistent with the 
design loads of the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety 
Standards. Several Tables and specifications in this subpart apply only 
to pier and footing configurations and may not apply to other types of 
foundation systems.
    (c) Details, plans, and test data must be designed and certified by 
a registered professional engineer or registered architect, and must 
not take the home out of compliance with the MHCSS.
    (d) Alternative foundation systems. Alternative foundation systems 
or designs are permitted by Sec.  3285.301(d)(1) or Sec.  
3285.301(d)(2).
    (1) Systems or designs must be manufactured and installed in 
accordance with their listings by a nationally recognized testing 
agency based on a nationally recognized testing protocol; or
    (2) System designs must be prepared by a registered professional 
engineer or a registered architect in accordance with acceptable 
engineering practice.


Sec.  3285.302  Flood hazard areas.

    In flood hazard areas, the piers and support systems must be 
capable of resisting loads associated with design flood and wind events 
(refer to Sec.  3285.101).


Sec.  3285.303  Piers.

    (a) General. The piers used must be capable of transmitting the 
vertical live and dead loads to the footings or foundation below.
    (b) Acceptable piers--materials specification. (1) Piers are 
permitted to be concrete blocks, pressure-treated wood having 0.60 
pounds per cubic foot (pcf) retention in accordance with Sec.  
3285.312(b)(2), or adjustable metal or concrete piers.
    (2) Manufactured piers must be listed or labeled for the required 
vertical load capacity, and where required by design, for the 
appropriate horizontal load capacity.
    (c) Design requirements. (1) Load-bearing capacity. The load that 
each pier must carry depends on such factors as the dimensions of the 
home, the design dead and live loads, the spacing of the piers, and the 
way the piers are used to support the home.
    (2) Center beam/mating wall support must be required for multi-
section homes and designs must be consistent with Tables 2 and 3 of 
this section and Figures A, B, and C to Sec.  3285.310.
    (d) Pier loads. (1) Design support layout configurations, poured 
footing sizes for the pier loads, pier spacing, and soil bearing 
capacities and support conditions must be consistent with Tables 1, 2, 
and 3 of this section, and Figure C to Sec.  3285.312.
BILLING CODE 4210-27-P

[[Page 21524]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.001


[[Page 21525]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.002


[[Page 21526]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.003


[[Page 21527]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.004


[[Page 21528]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.005

BILLING CODE 4210-27-C

    (2) Manufactured piers must be rated at least to the loads required 
to safely support the dead and live loads as required by Sec.  3285.301 
and installation instructions must be formatted consistent with Tables 
1, 2, and 3 of this section. Locally constructed piers must also be 
designed to transmit these loads safely as required by Sec.  3285.301.


Sec.  3285.304  Configuration.

    (a) Concrete blocks. (1) Concrete block piers must be installed in 
accordance with Figures A and B of Sec.  3285.306.
    (2) Load-bearing (not decorative) concrete blocks must have nominal 
dimensions of at least 8 inches x 8 inches x 16 inches.
    (3) The concrete blocks must be stacked with their hollow cells 
aligned vertically.
    (4) When piers are constructed of blocks stacked side by side, each 
layer must be at right angles to the preceding one, as shown in Figure 
B of Sec. 3285.306.
    (b) Caps. (1) Structural loads must be evenly distributed across 
capped hollow block piers, as shown in Figures A and B of 
Sec. 3285.306.
    (2) Caps must be of solid masonry of at least 4 inches nominal 
thickness, of dimensional lumber at least 2 inches nominal thickness, 
or be of steel or other listed materials.
    (3) All caps must be of the same length and width as the piers on 
which they rest.
    (4) When split caps are used on double stacked blocks, the caps 
must be installed with the long dimension across the joint in the 
blocks below.
    (c) Gaps. When gaps between the bottom of the supported beam and 
the foundation support system occur during installation, any 
combination of the following applies.
    (1) Nominal 4 inches x 6 inches shims are permitted to be used to 
level the home and fill any gaps between the base of the I-beam and the 
top of the pier cap;
    (2) Shims must be used in pairs as shown in Figures A and B of 
Sec. 3285.306, and shims must be driven in tightly so that they do not 
occupy more than one inch of vertical height; and
    (3) Wood plates no thicker than 2 inches must be used to fill in 
remaining vertical gaps.
    (d) Manufactured pier heights. Manufactured pier heights must be 
selected so that the adjustable risers do not extend more than 2 inches 
when finally positioned.


Sec.  3285.305  Clearance under homes.

    (a) A minimum clearance of 12 inches must be maintained beneath the 
lowest member of the main frame (I-beam or channel beam) in the area of 
utility connections.
    (b) No more than 25 percent of the lowest member of the main frame 
of the home may be less than 12 inches above grade.


Sec.  3285.306  Design procedures for concrete block piers.

    (a) Frame piers less than 36 inches high. (1) Frame piers less than 
36 inches high are permitted to be constructed of single, open, or 
closed-cell concrete blocks, 8 inches x 8 inches x 16 inches, when the 
design capacity of the block is not exceeded.
    (2) The frame piers must be installed so that the long sides are at 
right angles to the supported I-beam, as shown in Figure A of this 
section.
    (3) Open cells must be positioned at right angles to the footings.
    (4) Horizontal offsets must not exceed one-half inch. top to 
bottom.
    (5) Mortar is not required unless specified in the manufacturers 
installation instructions or required by a registered professional 
engineer or registered architect.
    (b) Frame piers 36 inches to 80 inches high and corner piers. All 
frame piers between 36 inches and 80 inches high and all corner piers 
over three blocks high must be constructed out of double, interlocked 
concrete blocks as shown in Figure B of this section, when the design 
capacity of the block is not exceeded. Mortar is required for concrete 
block piers unless otherwise specified in the manufacturer installation 
instructions.

BILLING CODE 4210-27-P

[[Page 21529]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.006

BILLING CODE 4210-27-C
    (c) All piers over 80 inches high. Piers over 80 inches high must 
be designed by a registered professional engineer or registered 
architect in accordance with acceptable engineering practice. Mortar is 
required for concrete block piers unless otherwise specified in the 
manufacturer installation instructions.

[[Page 21530]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.007

Sec.  3285.307  Perimeter support piers.

    (a) Piers required at mate-line supports, perimeter piers, and 
piers at exterior wall openings are permitted to be constructed of 
single open-or closed-cell concrete blocks, 8 inches x 8 inches x 16 
inches, to a maximum height of 54 inches as shown in Figure A to 
Sec. 3285.306, when the design capacity of the block is not exceeded.
    (b) Piers used for perimeter support must be installed with the 
long dimension parallel to the perimeter rail.


Sec.  3285.308  Manufactured piers.

    Manufactured piers must be listed and labeled and installed to the 
pier manufacturer installation instructions. Refer to Sec.  
3285.303(d)(2).


Sec.  3285.309  Elevated homes.

    When more than one-fourth of the area of a home is installed so 
that the bottoms of the main frame members are more than 67 inches 
above the top of the footing, the home stabilizing devices must be 
designed by a registered professional engineer or registered architect 
in accordance with acceptable engineering practice.


Sec.  3285.310  Pier location and spacing.

    (a) The location and spacing of piers depends upon the dimensions 
of the home, the live and dead loads, the type of construction (single-
or multi-section), I-beam size, soil bearing capacity, footing size, 
and such other factors as the location of doors or other openings.
    (b) Mate-line and column pier supports must be in accordance with 
this subpart and consistent with Figures A through C of this section.

[[Page 21531]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.008


[[Page 21532]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.009


[[Page 21533]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.010

BILLING CODE 4210-27-C

    (c) Piers supporting the frame must be no more than 24 inches from 
both ends and not more than 120 inches center to center under the main 
rails.
    (d) Pier support locations. Pier support locations and spacing must 
be presented to be consistent with Figures A and B of Sec. 3285.312, as 
applicable, unless alternative designs are provided by a professional 
engineer or registered architect in accordance with acceptable 
engineering practice.


Sec.  3285.311  Required perimeter supports.

    (a) Pier supports must be placed on both sides of side wall 
exterior doors and any other side wall openings greater than 48 inches 
(such as entry and sliding glass doors), and under porch posts, factory 
installed fireplaces, and wood stoves).
    (b) Other perimeter supports must be required in accordance with 
Table 1, 2, or 3 of Sec.  3285.303, as applicable.


Sec.  3285.312  Footings.

    (a) Footing materials must conform to Sec.  3285.312 and other 
materials approved for footings may be permitted if they provide equal 
load-bearing capacity and resistance to decay. Footings must be placed 
on undisturbed soil or fill compacted to 90 percent of maximum relative 
density. A footing must support every pier.

[[Page 21534]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.011

    (b) Acceptable types of footings. (1) Concrete. Footings must are 
permitted to consist of either of the following:
    (i) 4-inch nominal precast concrete pads meeting or exceeding ASTM 
C 90-02, Standard Specification for Load Bearing Concrete Masonry 
Units, without reinforcement, with at least a 28-day compressive 
strength of 4,000 pounds per square inch (psi); and
    (ii) 6-inch nominal poured-in-place concrete pads, slabs, or 
ribbons with at least a 28-day compressive strength of 3,000 pounds per 
square inch (psi).

[[Page 21535]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.012

BILLING CODE 4210-27-C

    (2) Pressure-treated permanent wood. (i) A minimum of two layers of 
nominal 2-inch thick pressure-treated wood having 0.60-pcf (9.6 kg/
m3) retention in accordance with AWPA C2-02, Standard for 
the Preservative Treatment of Lumber, Timber, Bridge Ties and Mine 
Ties, by Pressure Processes, or AWPA C9-00, Plywood--Preservative 
Treatment by Pressure Processes, with the long dimensions of the second 
layer placed under the pier and perpendicular to that of the first 
layer, must be used.
    (ii) Pressure-treated wood footings must be pressure treated on all 
six sides and is permitted to consist of nominal 2 inch thick pressure-
treated wood in accordance with AWPA C2-02, or a single layer of a 
minimum thickness of three quarter inch and a maximum size of 16 inches 
x 16 inches, or, for larger sizes, two pieces of nominal three-quarter 
inch thick plywood (APA-rated sheathing, exposure 1, PS1) pressure-
treated for soil contact in accordance with AWPA C9-00.
    (3) ABS footing pads. (i) ABS footing pads are permitted as long as 
pad installation is in accordance with the pad manufacturer 
installation instructions.

[[Page 21536]]

    (ii) ABS footing pads must be listed or labeled for the required 
load capacity.
    (c) Placement in freezing climates. (1) Conventional footings. 
Footings placed in freezing climates must be placed below the frost 
line depth for the site unless an insulated foundation or monolithic 
slab is used (refer to Sec. Sec.  3285.312(c)(2) and 3285.312(c)(3)). 
When the frost line depth is not available from the LAHJ, a registered 
professional engineer, registered architect, or registered geologist 
must be consulted to determine the required frost line depth for the 
manufactured home site.
    (2) Monolithic slab systems. (i) When properly designed by a 
registered professional engineer or registered architect in accordance 
with acceptable engineering practice and ASCE/SEI 32-01, a monolithic 
slab is permitted above the frost line.
    (ii) The design must accommodate anchorage requirements in Sec.  
3285.401.
    (3) Insulated foundations. When properly designed by a registered 
professional engineer or registered architect in accordance with 
acceptable engineering practice and ASCE/SEI 32-01, an insulated 
foundation is permitted above the frost line.
    (d) Sizing of footings. The sizing of footings depends on the load-
bearing capacity of both the piers and the soil. Refer to Sec.  
3285.303 and Figures C and E of this section for footing sizes.
BILLING CODE 4210-27-P

[[Page 21537]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.013


[[Page 21538]]


BILLING CODE 4210-27-C

    (e) The size and capacity for unreinforced cast-in-place footings 
are as follows:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              8 in. x 16 in. pier        16 in. x 16 in. pier
                                                         -------------------------------------------------------
                                                                       Unreinforced                Unreinforced
        Soil capacity  (psf)           Minimum  footing    Maximum    cast-in-place    Maximun    case-in-place
                                          size  (in.)      footing       minimum       footing       minimum
                                                           capacity     thickness      capacity     thickness
                                                             (lb)         (in.)          (lb)         (in.)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1,000...............................  16 x 16                 1,600                6      1,600                6
                                      20 x 20                 2,600                6      2,600                6
                                      24 x 24                 3,700                6      3,700                6
                                      30 x 30                 5,600                8      5,800                6
                                      36 x 36                 7,900               10      8,100                8
                                      42 x 42                   \4\               12     10,700               10
                                                             10,100
                                      48 x 48                   \4\               15     13,600               12
                                                             13,000
1,500...............................  16 x 16                 2,500                6      2,500                6
                                      20 x 20                 4,000                6      4,000                6
                                      24 x 24                 5,600                8      5,700                6
                                      30 x 30                 8,600               10      8,900                6
                                      36 x 36                   \4\               12     12,600                8
                                                             12,200
                                      42 x 42                   \4\               15     16,500               12
                                                             16,100
                                      48 x 48                   \4\               18        \4\               15
                                                             20,400                      21,000
2,000...............................  16 x 16                 3,400                6      3,400                6
                                      20 x 20                 5,300                6      5,300                6
                                      24 x 24                 7,600                8      7,700                6
                                      30 x 30                   \1\               10     11,900                8
                                                             11,600
                                      36 x 36                   \4\               15     16,900               10
                                                             16,300
                                      42 x 42                   \4\               18        \4\               12
                                                             21,700                      22,700
2,500...............................  16 x 16                 4,300                6      4,300                6
                                      20 x 20                 6,700                6      6,700                6
                                      24 x 24                 9,600                8      9,700                6
                                      30 x 30                   \4\               12     15,000                8
                                                             14,700
                                      36 x 36                   \4\               15        \4\               10
                                                             20,800                      21,400
3,000...............................  16 x 16                 5,200                6      5,200                6
                                      20 x 20                 8,100                8      8,100                6
                                      24 x 24                   \4\               10     11,700                6
                                                             11,500
                                      30 x 30                   \4\               12     18,100                8
                                                             17,800
                                      36 x 36                   \4\               18        \4\               12
                                                             25,000                      25,700
4,000...............................  16 x 16                 7,000                6      7,000                6
                                      20 x 20                10,800                8     10,900                6
                                      24 x 24                   \4\               10     15,600                8
                                                             15,500
                                      30 x 30                   \4\               15        \4\              10
                                                             23,800                      24,200
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
\1\ The footing sizes shown are for square pads and are based on the area (in.2), shear, and bending required
  for the loads shown. Other configurations, such as rectangular or circular configurations, can be used,
  provided the area and depth is equal to or greater than the area and depth of the square footing shown in the
  table and the distance from the edge of the pier to the edge of the footing is not less than the thickness of
  the footing.
\2\ The 6 in. cast-in-place values can be used for 4 in. unreinforced precast concrete footings.
\3\ The capacity values listed have been reduced by the dead load of the concrete footing.
\4\ Concrete block piers must not exceed their design capacity.

Sec.  3285.313  Combination systems.

    Support systems that combine both load-bearing capacity and uplift 
resistance must also be sized and designed for all applicable design 
loads.


Sec.  3285.314  Permanent foundations.

    (a) Nothing in these Model Installation Standards shall limit the 
authority of State and local governments to impose requirements for the 
placement of a manufactured home on a permanent foundation in 
accordance with State or local building codes provided the permanent 
foundation provides protection to the residents of manufactured homes 
that equals or exceeds the protection provided by these Model 
Installation Standards. In addition, nothing in these Model 
Installation Standards is intended to limit the ability of mortgage 
lenders or others to establish financing eligibility requirements or 
technical underwriting standards or requirements for permanent 
foundations that provide protection to the residents of manufactured 
homes that equals or exceeds the protection provided by these Model 
Installation Standards.
    (b) When a permanent foundation design is required and is not 
available from the home manufacturer or covered in the local building 
code, a registered professional engineer or registered architect must 
design the anchorage and foundation support requirements.


Sec.  3285.315  Special snow load conditions.

    (a) In general, foundations for homes designed for and located in 
areas with roof live loads greater than 40 psf must be designed by the 
manufacturer for the special snow load conditions in accordance with 
acceptable engineering practice. Where site or other conditions 
prohibit the use of the manufacturer's instructions, a registered 
professional engineer or registered architect must design the 
foundation for the special snow load conditions.
    (b) Ramadas. Ramadas may be used in areas with roof live loads 
greater than 40

[[Page 21539]]

psf. Any connection to the home must be for weatherproofing only.

Subpart E--Anchorage Against Wind


Sec.  3285.401  Anchoring instructions.

    (a) After blocking and leveling, the installer must secure the 
manufactured home against the wind by use of anchor assembly type 
installations or by connections to alternative foundation systems 
(Sec.  3285.301) or permanent foundations (Sec.  3285.314).
    (b) For anchor assembly type installations, the manufactured home 
must be secured against the wind as described in Sec.  3285.401. So as 
not to preclude other design configurations or alternative foundation 
systems, when using another type of installation, the design must be 
prepared by a registered professional engineer or registered architect 
in accordance with acceptable engineering practice, the design loads of 
the Federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards (24 CFR 
part 3280), and Sec.  3285.301(d).
    (c) All anchoring and foundation systems must be capable of meeting 
the loads required by part 3280, subpart D of this chapter, that the 
home was designed to withstand as shown on the home's data plate.


Sec.  3285.402  Ground anchor installations.

    (a) Specifications for tie-down straps and ground anchors. (1) 
Ground anchors.
    Ground anchors must be listed, zinc-coated (0.30 oz/ft2 
of surface area), and be capable of resisting a minimum total load 
capacity of 4725 lb and a working load capacity of 3150 lb, unless 
reduced capacities are noted in accordance with note 11 of Table 1 of 
this section or note 12 of Tables 2 and 3 of this section. The 
resistance capability of ground anchors and anchoring equipment must be 
determined by a registered professional engineer, registered architect, 
or tested by a nationally recognized third party testing agency in 
accordance with a nationally recognized testing protocol.
    (2) Tie-down straps. A 1\1/4\ inch x 0.035 in or larger zinc-coated 
(0.30 oz/ft\2\ of surface area) steel strapping conforming to ASTM D 
3953-97, Standard Specification for Strapping, Flat Steel and Seals, 
Type 1, Grade 1, Finish B with a minimum total capacity of 4,725 pounds 
(lbs) and a working capacity of 3,150 pounds (lbs) must be used. Slit 
or cut edges of coated strapping need not be zinc coated.
    (b) Number and location of ground anchors. (1) Ground anchor and 
anchor strap spacing for installation of single-section and multi-
section manufactured homes must be consistent with the appropriate 
spacing shown in Tables 1 through 3 of this section, and Figures A and 
B of this section.
BILLING CODE 4210-27--P

[[Page 21540]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.014

    (2) Longitudinal anchoring. Manufactured homes must be stabilized 
against wind in the longitudinal direction in all Wind Zones. 
Manufactured homes located in Wind Zones 2 and 3 must have longitudinal 
ground anchors installed on the ends of the manufactured home 
transportable section(s). A registered professional engineer or 
registered architect must design alternative longitudinal anchoring 
methods in accordance with acceptable engineering practice.

[[Page 21541]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.015


[[Page 21542]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.016


[[Page 21543]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.017

BILLING CODE 4210-27-C

    (3) The requirements in Sec.  3285.402(b)(1) must be used to 
determine the maximum spacing of ground anchors and their accompanying 
anchor straps based on the soil classification determined in accordance 
with Sec.  3285.202.
    (i) The installed ground anchor size (length) must be for the 
listed soil class.
    (ii) All ground anchors must be installed in accordance with their 
listing or certification and the ground anchor manufacturer 
installation instructions; stabilizer plates must zinc-coated (0.30 oz/
ft\2\ of surface area) and installed as required by the ground anchor 
listing or certification.
    (c) Each ground anchor must be manufactured and provided with 
installation instructions in accordance with its listing or 
certification. A nationally recognized testing agency must list, or a 
registered professional engineer or registered architect must certify 
the ground anchor for use in a classified soil (refer to Sec.  
3285.202) based on a nationally recognized testing protocol.

                          Table 1.--Maximum Diagonal Tiedown Strap Spacing, Wind Zone I
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                    Max. height  from ground
   Nominal floor width, single         to  diagonal strap       I-beam spacing  (82.5     I-beam spacing  (99.5
      section/multi-section                attachment                 in. max.)                 in. max.)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12/24 ft, 132 in. to 155 in.       25 in.                     14 ft 2 in.               9 ft 9 in.
 section(s).                       33 in.                     11 ft 9 in.               7 ft 8 in.
                                   46 in.                     9 ft 1 in.                5 ft 8 in.
                                   67 in.                     6 ft 6 in.                4 ft 0 in.
14/28 ft, 156 in. to 179 in.       25 in.                     18 ft 2 in.               15 ft 11 in.
 section(s).                       33 in.                     16 ft 1 in.               13 ft 6 in.
                                   46 in.                     13 ft 3 in.               10 ft 8 in.
                                   67 in.                     10 ft 0. in.              7 ft 9 in.
16/32 ft, 180 in. to 204 in.       25 in.                     20 ft 7 in.               19 ft 5 in.
 section(s).                       33 in.                     19 ft 0 in.               17 ft 5 in.
                                   46 in.                     16 ft 5 in.               14 ft 7 in.
                                   67 in.                     13 ft 1 in.               11 ft 3 in.

[[Page 21544]]

 
18 ft, 204 in. to 216 in.          25 in.                     22 ft 4 in.               21 ft 8 in.
 section(s).                       33 in.                     21 ft 1 in.               20 ft 2 in.
                                   46 in.                     19 ft 0 in.               17 ft 8 in.
                                   67 in.                     15 ft 9 in.               14 ft 3 in.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
1. Table based on maximum 90 in. sidewall height.
2. Table based on maximum 4 in. inset for ground anchor head from edge of floor or wall.
3. Table based on main rail (I-beam) spacing per given column.
4. Table based on maximum 4 in. eave width for single-section homes and maximum 12 in. for multi-section homes.
5. Table based on maximum 20-degree roof pitch (4.3/12).
6. Interpolation may be required for other heights from ground to strap attachment. The minimum height from the
  ground to the bottom of the floor joist must be 18 in.
7. Additional tiedowns may be required per the home manufacturer instructions.
8. Ground anchors must be certified for these conditions by a professional engineer, architect, or listed by a
  nationally recognized testing laboratory.
9. Ground anchors must be installed to their full depth, and stabilizer plates must be installed per the ground
  anchor and home manufacturer instructions.
10. Strapping and anchoring equipment must be certified by a registered professional engineer or registered
  architect, or listed by a nationally recognized testing agency to resist these specified forces in accordance
  with testing procedures in ASTM D 3953-97, Standard Specification for Strapping, Flat Steel and Seals.
11. A reduced ground anchor or strap working load capacity will require reduced tiedown strap and anchor
  spacing. Ground anchors must not be spaced closer than the minimum spacing permitted by the listing or
  certification.
12. Table is based on a 3150 lb working load capacity, and straps must be placed within 2 ft of the ends of the
  home.


                                             Table 2.--Maximum Diagonal Tiedown Strap Spacing, Wind Zone II
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       Max. height  from           Near beam method  I-beam spacing              Second beam method  I-beam spacing
    Nominal floor width, single       ground  to diagonal  ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
       section/multi-section           strap  attachment           82.5 in.                99.5 in.                82.5 in.               99.5 in.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12 ft/24 ft, 132 in. to 155 in.     25 in.                  6 ft 2 in.              4 ft 3 in.              7 ft 6 in.             7 ft 7 in.
 section(s).                        33 in.                  5 ft 2 in.              N/A                     7 ft 2 in.             7 ft 4 in.
                                    46 in.                  4 ft 0 in.              N/A                     6 ft 9 in.             6 ft 11 in.
                                    67 in.                  N/A                     N/A                     6 ft 1 in.             6 ft 3 in.
14 ft/28 ft, 156 in. to 179 in.     25 in.                  7 ft 7 in.              6 ft 9 in.              7 ft 8 in.             7 ft 9 in.
 section(s).                        33 in.                  6 ft 10 in.             5 ft 9 in.              7 ft 5 in.             7 ft 6 in.
                                    46 in.                  5 ft 7 in.              4 ft 6 in.              7 ft 0 in.             7 ft 2 in.
                                    67 in.                  4 ft 3 in.              NA                      6 ft 5 in.             6 ft 7 in.
16 ft/32 ft, 180 in. to 204 in.     25 in.                  7 ft 9 in.              7 ft 10 in.             7 ft 10 in.            7 ft 10 in.
 section(s).                        33 in.                  7 ft 6 in.              7 ft 2 in.              7 ft 7 in.             7 ft 8 in.
                                    46 in.                  6 ft 9 in.              6 ft 0 in.              7 ft 2 in.             7 ft 3 in.
                                    67 in.                  5 ft 4 in.              4 ft 7 in.              6 ft 8 in.             6 ft 9 in.
18 ft, 204 in. to 216 in.           25 in.                  7 ft 10 in.             7 ft 9 in.              7 ft 11 in.            8 ft 0 in.
 section(s).                        33 in.                  7 ft 8 in.              7 ft 8 in.              7 ft 9 in.             7 ft 9 in.
                                    46 in.                  7 ft 4 in.              7 ft 0 in.              7 ft 4 in.             7 ft 5 in.
                                    67 in.                  6 ft 3 in.              5 ft 8 in.              6 ft 10 in.            6 ft 11 in.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
1. Table based on maximum 90 in. sidewall height.
2. Table based on maximum 4 in. inset for ground anchor head from edge of floor or wall.
3. Tables based on main rail (I-beam) spacing per given column.
4. Table based on maximum 4 in. eave width for single-section homes and maximum 12 in. for multi-section homes.
5. Table based on maximum 20-degree roof pitch (4.3/12).
6. All manufactured homes designed to be located in Wind Zone II must have a vertical tie installed at each diagonal tie location.
7. Interpolation may be required for other heights from ground to strap attachment. The minimum height from the ground to the bottom of the floor joist
  must be 18 in.
8. Additional tiedowns may be required per the home manufacturer instructions.
9. Ground anchors must be certified by a professional engineer, or registered architect, or listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
10. Ground anchors must be installed to their full depth, and stabilizer plates must be installed per the ground anchor and home manufacturer
  instructions.
11. Strapping and anchoring equipment must be certified by a registered professional engineer or registered architect or must be listed by a nationally
  recognized testing agency to resist these specified forces in accordance with testing procedures in ASTM D 3953-97, Standard Specification for
  Strapping, Flat Steel and Seals.
12. A reduced ground anchor or strap working load capacity will require reduced tiedown strap and anchor spacing. Ground anchors must not be spaced
  closer than the minimum spacing permitted by the listing or certification.
13. Table is based on a 3150 lb working load capacity, and straps must be placed within 2 ft of the ends of the home.


[[Page 21545]]


                                             Table 3.--Maximum Diagonal Tiedown Strap Spacing, Wind Zone III
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                       Max. height  from           Near beam method  I-beam spacing              Second beam method  I-beam spacing
Nominal floor width single section/   ground to  diagonal  ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           multi-section               strap  attachment           82.5 in.                99.5 in.                82.5 in.               99.5 in.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12 ft/24 ft 132 in. to 155 in.      25 in.                  5 ft 1 in.              N/A                     6 ft 1 in.             6 ft 2 in.
 section(s).                        33 in.                  4 ft 3 in.              N/A                     5 ft 10 in.            6 ft 0 in.
                                    46 in.                  N/A                     N/A                     5 ft 6 in.             5 ft 8 in.
                                    67 in.                  N/A                     N/A                     5 ft 0 in.             5 ft 1 in.
14 ft/28 ft 156 in. to 179 in.      25 in.                  6 ft 2 in.              5 ft 7 in.              6 ft 3 in.             6 ft 4 in.
 section(s).                        33 in.                  5 ft 8 in.              4 ft 9 in.              6 ft 0 in.             6 ft 1 in.
                                    46 in.                  4 ft 8 in.              N/A                     5 ft 8 in.             5 ft 9 in.
                                    67 in.                  N/A                     N/A                     5 ft 2 in.             5 ft 4 in.
16 ft/32 ft 180 in. to 204 in.      25 in.                  6 ft 4 in.              6 ft 3 in.              6 ft 4 in.             6 ft 3 in.
 section(s).                        33 in.                  6 ft 1 in.              5 ft 11 in.             6 ft 2 in.             6 ft 2 in.
                                    46 in.                  5 ft 7 in.              5 ft 0 in.              5 ft 10 in.            5 ft 11 in.
                                    67 in.                  4 ft 5 in.              N/A                     5 ft 5 in.             5 ft 6 in.
18 ft 204 in. to 216 in.            25 in.                  6 ft 2 in.              6 ft 1 in.              6 ft 2 in.             6 ft 1 in.
 section(s).                        33 in.                  6 ft 1 in.              6 ft 0 in.              6 ft 1 in.             6 ft 0 in.
                                    46 in.                  5 ft 11 in.             5 ft 10 in.             6 ft 0 in.             5 ft 11 in.
                                    67 in.                  5 ft 2 in.              4 ft 8 in.              5 ft 7 in.             5 ft 7 in.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
1. Table is based on maximum 90 in. sidewall height.
2. Table based on maximum 4 in. inset for ground anchor head from edge of floor or wall.
3. Table is based on main rail (I-beam) spacing per given column.
4. Table based on maximum 4 in. eave width for single-section homes and maximum 12 in. for multi-section homes.
5. Table based on maximum 20-degree roof pitch (4.3/12).
6. All manufactured homes designed to be located in Wind Zone III must have a vertical tie installed at each diagonal tie location.
7. Interpolation may be required for other heights from ground to strap attachment. The minimum height from the ground to the bottom of the floor joist
  must be 18 in.
8. Additional tiedowns may be required per the home manufacturer instructions.
9. Ground anchors must be certified by a professional engineer, or registered architect, or listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory.
10. Ground anchors must be installed to their full depth, and stabilizer plates must be installed per the ground anchor and home manufacturer
  instructions.
11. Strapping and anchoring equipment must be certified by a registered professional engineer or registered architect or must be listed by a nationally
  recognized testing agency to resist these specified forces in accordance with testing procedures in ASTM D 3953-97, Standard Specification for
  Strapping, Flat Steel and Seals.
12. A reduced ground anchor or strap working load capacity will require reduced tiedown strap and anchor spacing. Ground anchors must not be spaced
  closer than the minimum spacing permitted by the listing or certification.
13. Table is based on a 3150 lb working load capacity, and straps must be placed within 2 ft of the ends of the home.

Sec.  3285.403  Sidewall, over-the-roof, mate-line, and shear wall 
straps.

    If sidewall, over-the roof, mate-line, or shear wall straps are 
installed on the home, they must be connected to an anchoring assembly.


Sec.  3285.404  Severe climatic conditions.

    In frost-susceptible soil locations, ground anchor augers must be 
installed below the frost line, or frost protected as designed by a 
registered professional engineer or registered architect in accordance 
with acceptable engineering practice and Sec.  3280.306 of this 
chapter.


Sec.  3285.405  Severe wind zones.

    When any part of a home is installed within 1,500 feet of a 
coastline in Wind Zones II or III, the manufactured home must be 
designed for the increased requirements as specified on the home's data 
plate (refer to Sec.  3280.5(f) of this chapter) in accordance with 
acceptable engineering practice. Where site or other conditions 
prohibit the use of the manufacture's instructions, a registered 
professional engineer or registered architect in accordance with 
acceptable engineering practice must design anchorage for the special 
wind conditions.


Sec.  3285.406  Flood hazard areas.

    In flood hazard areas, the piers, anchoring, and support systems 
must be capable of resisting loads associated with design flood and 
wind events (Refer to Sec.  3285.101).

Subpart F--Optional Features


Sec.  3285.501  Home installation manual supplements.

    Supplemental instructions for optional equipment or features must 
be approved by the DAPIA as not taking the home out of conformance with 
the requirements of this part or part 3280 of this chapter and included 
with the manufacturer installation instructions.


Sec.  3285.502  Expanding rooms.

    The support and anchoring systems for expanding rooms must be 
installed in accordance with designs prepared by a registered 
professional engineer or registered architect in accordance with 
acceptable engineering practice.


Sec.  3285.503  Optional appliances.

    (a) Comfort cooling systems. When not provided and installed by the 
home manufacturer, comfort cooling systems must be installed according 
to the appliance manufacturer installation instructions.
    (1) Air conditioners. Air conditioning equipment must be listed or 
certified by a nationally recognized testing agency for the application 
for which the unit is intended and installed in accordance with the 
terms of its listing or certification (Refer to Sec.  3280.714 of this 
chapter).
    (i) Energy efficiency. (A) For proper operation and energy 
efficiency, site-installed central air conditioning equipment must be 
sized to closely match the home's heat gain, following Chapter 28 of 
the 1997 ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals or ACCA Manual J, Residential 
Cooling Load, 8th edition. Information necessary to calculate the 
home's sensible heat gain

[[Page 21546]]

can be found on the home's comfort cooling certificate.
    (B) The BTU/hr rated capacity of the site-installed air 
conditioning equipment must not exceed the air distribution system's 
rated BTU/hr capacity as shown on the home's compliance certificate.
    (ii) Circuit rating. If a manufactured home is factory provided 
with an exterior outlet to energize heating and/or air conditioning 
equipment, the branch circuit rating on the tag adjacent to this outlet 
must be equal to or greater than the minimum circuit amperage 
identified on the equipment rating plate.
    (iii) A-coil units. (A) A-coil air conditioning units must be 
compatible and listed for use with the furnace in the home.
    (B) The air conditioner manufacturer instructions must be followed.
    (C) All condensation must be directed beyond the perimeter of the 
home by means specified by the equipment manufacturer.
    (2) Heat pumps. Heat pumps must be listed or certified by a 
nationally recognized testing agency for the application for which the 
unit is intended and installed in accordance with the terms of its 
listing or certification. Refer to Sec.  3280.714 of this chapter.
    (3) Evaporative coolers. A roof-mounted cooler must be listed or 
certified by a nationally recognized testing agency for the application 
for which the unit is intended and installed in accordance with the 
terms of its listing (Refer to Sec.  3280.714 of this chapter).
    (i) Any discharge grill must not be closer than three feet from a 
smoke alarm.
    (ii) Before field installing a roof mounted evaporative cooler, the 
installer must ensure that the roof will support the weight of the 
cooler.
    (iii) A rigid base must be provided to distribute the cooler weight 
over multiple roof trusses to adequately support the weight of the 
evaporative cooler.
    (b) Fireplace and wood-stove chimneys and air inlets. Fireplace and 
wood-stove chimneys and air inlets must be listed for use with 
manufactured homes and must be installed in accordance with their 
listings.
    (c) Appliance venting. (1) Heat producing appliances must exhaust 
to the exterior of the home.
    (2) When the vent exhausts through the floor, the vent must not 
terminate under the home and must extend to the home's exterior and 
through any skirting that may be installed.
    (d) Flood hazard areas. (1) Outside appliances. Appliances 
installed on the manufactured home site must be anchored and elevated 
to or above the same elevation as the lowest elevation of the lowest 
floor of the home.
    (2) Air inlets. Appliance air inlets must be located at or above 
the same elevation as the lowest elevation of the lowest floor of the 
home.
    (e) Clothes dryer exhaust duct system. A clothes dryer exhaust duct 
system must conform with and be completed in accordance with the 
appliance manufacturer instructions and Sec.  3280.708 of this chapter. 
The vents must exhaust to the exterior of the home, beyond any 
perimeter skirting installed around it, as shown in the figure to this 
section.
BILLING CODE 4210-27-P

[[Page 21547]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.018

Sec.  3285.504  Skirting.

    (a) Skirting, if used, must be of weather-resistant materials.
    (b) Skirting must not be attached in a manner that can cause water 
to be trapped between the siding and trim or forced up into the wall 
cavities trim to which it is attached.
    (c) All wood skirting within 6 inches of the ground must be 
pressure treated or naturally resistant to decay and termite 
infestations.
    (d) Skirting must not be attached in a manner that impedes the 
contraction and expansion characteristics of the home's exterior 
covering.


Sec.  3285.505  Crawlspace ventilation.

    (a) A crawlspace with skirting must be provided with ventilation 
openings. The minimum net area of ventilation openings must not be less 
than one square foot (ft\2\) for every 150 square feet (ft\2\) of the 
home's floor area. The total area of ventilation openings may be 
reduced to one square foot (ft\2\) for every 1,500 square feet (ft\2\) 
of the home's floor area where a uniform 6-mil polyethylene sheet 
material or other acceptable vapor retarder is installed according to 
Sec.  3285.204, on the ground surface beneath the entire floor area of 
the home.
    (b) Ventilation openings must be placed as high as practicable.
    (c) Openings must be located on at least two opposite sides to 
provide cross-ventilation.
    (d) Ventilation openings must be covered for their full height and 
width with a perforated metal covering.
    (e) Access opening(s) not less than 18 inches in any dimension and 
not less than three square feet (ft\2\) in area must be provided and 
must be located so that any utility connections located under the home 
are accessible.
    (f) Dryer vents, air conditioning condensation drains, and 
combustion air inlets must pass through the skirting to the outside.

Subpart G--Ductwork and Plumbing and Fuel Supply Systems


Sec.  3285.601  Field assembly.

    Home manufacturers must provide specific written instructions for 
installers on the proper field assembly for any shipped loose duct, 
plumbing, and fuel supply system parts, necessary to join all sections 
of the home and designed to be located underneath the home. The home 
manufacturer installation instructions must be designed in accordance 
with applicable requirements of part 3280, subparts G and H of this 
chapter, as specified hereafter.


Sec.  3285.602  Utility connections.

    Refer to Sec.  3285.905 for considerations for utility system 
connections.


Sec.  3285.603  Water supply.

    (a) Crossover. Multi-section homes with plumbing in both sections 
require water-line crossover connections to join all sections of the 
home. The crossover must be designed in accordance with Sec.  3280.609 
of this chapter.
    (b) Maximum supply pressure and reduction. When the local water 
supply pressure exceeds 80 psi to the manufactured home, a pressure-
reducing valve must be installed.
    (c) Mandatory shutoff valve. (1) An accessible shutoff valve must 
be installed between the water supply and the inlet.

[[Page 21548]]

    (2) The water riser for the shutoff valve connection must be 
located underneath or adjacent to the home.
    (3) The shutoff valve must be a full-flow gate or ball valve, or 
equivalent valve.
    (d) Freezing protection. Water line crossovers completed during 
installation must be protected from freezing. The freeze protection 
must be designed accordance with the requirements of Sec.  3280.603 of 
this chapter.
    (1) If subject to freezing temperatures, the water connection must 
be wrapped with insulation or otherwise protected to prevent freezing, 
under normal occupancy.
    (2) In areas subject to freezing or subfreezing temperatures, 
exposed sections of water supply piping, shutoff valves, pressure 
reducers, and pipes in water heater compartments must be insulated or 
otherwise protected from freezing, under normal occupancy.
    (3) Use of pipe heating cable. Only pipe heating cable listed for 
manufactured home use is permitted to be used and must be installed in 
accordance with the cable manufacturer installation instructions.
    (e) Testing procedures. (1) The water system must be inspected and 
tested for leaks after completion at the site. Testing requirements 
must be consistent with Sec.  3280.612 of this chapter.
    (2) The water heater must be disconnected when using an air-only 
test.


Sec.  3285.604  Drainage system.

    (a) Crossovers. Multi-section homes with plumbing in both sections 
require drainage system crossover connections to join all sections of 
the home. The crossover must be designed in accordance with Sec.  
3280.610 of this chapter.
    (b) Assembly and support. If portions of the drainage system were 
shipped loose because they were necessary to join all sections of the 
home and designed to be located underneath the home, they must be 
installed and supported in accordance with Sec.  3280.608 of this 
chapter.
    (c) Proper slopes. Drains must be completed in accordance with 
Sec.  3280.610 of this chapter.
    (1) Drain lines must not slope less than one-quarter inch per foot 
unless otherwise noted on the schematic diagram, as shown in the figure 
to this section.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.019

    (2) A slope of one-eight inch per foot may be permitted when a 
clean out is installed at the upper end of the run.
    (d) Testing procedures. The drainage system must be inspected and 
tested for leaks after completion at the site. Testing requirements 
must be consistent with Sec.  3280.612 of this chapter.


Sec.  3285.605  Fuel supply system.

    (a) Proper supply pressure. The gas piping system in the home is 
designed for a pressure that is at least 10 inches of water column [5.8 
oz./in2 or 0.36 psi] and not more than 14 inches of water 
column [8 oz./in2 or 0.5 psi]. If gas from any supply source 
exceeds, or could exceed this pressure, a regulator may be installed as 
required by an LAHJ.
    (b) Crossovers. (1) Multi-section homes with fuel supply piping in 
both sections require crossover connections to join all sections of the 
home. The crossover must be designed in accordance with Sec.  3280.705 
of this chapter.

[[Page 21549]]

    (2) Tools must not be required to connect or remove the flexible 
connector quick-disconnect.
    (c) Testing procedures. The gas system must be inspected and tested 
for leaks after completion at the site. Testing requirements must be 
consistent with Sec.  3280.705 of this chapter.


Sec.  3285.606  Ductwork connections.

    (a) Crossovers. Multi-section homes with ductwork in both sections 
require crossover connections to join all sections of the home. As 
necessary for the joining of all sections of the home, metal plumber's 
tape, galvanized metal straps, or tape and mastics listed to UL 181 
must be used around the duct collar and secured tightly.
    (b) If metal straps are used, they must be secured with galvanized 
sheet metal screws.
    (c) Metal ducts must be fastened to the collar with a minimum of 
three galvanized sheet metal screws equally spaced around the collar.
    (d) Air conditioning or heating ducts must be installed in 
accordance with applicable requirements of the duct manufacturer 
installation instructions.
    (e) The duct must be suspended or supported above the ground and 
arranged under the floor to prevent compression or kinking in any 
location, as shown in Figures A and B of this section. In-floor 
crossover ducts are permitted in accordance with Sec.  3285.606(g).
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.020


[[Page 21550]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.021

    (f) Crossover ducts outside the thermal envelope must be insulated 
with materials that conform to designs consistent with part 3280, 
subpart F of this chapter.
    (g) In-floor or ceiling crossover duct connections must be 
installed and sealed to prevent air leakage.

Subpart H--Electrical Systems and Equipment


Sec.  3285.701  Electrical crossovers.

    Multi-section homes with electric in both sections require 
crossover connections to join all sections of the home. The crossover 
must be designed in accordance with part 3280, subpart I of this 
chapter.


Sec.  3285.702  Miscellaneous lights and fixtures.

    (a) When the home is installed, exterior lighting fixtures, 
ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans, and chain-hung lighting fixtures are 
permitted to be installed in accordance with their listings and part 
3280, subpart I of this chapter.
    (b) Grounding. (1) All the exterior lighting fixtures and ceiling 
fans installed per Sec.  3285.702(a) must be grounded by a fixture-
grounding device or by a fixture-grounding wire.
    (2) For chain-hung lighting fixtures, as shown in Figure A of this 
section, both a fixture-grounding device and a fixture-grounding wire 
must be used. The identified conductor must be the neutral conductor.

[[Page 21551]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.022

    (b) Where lighting fixtures are mounted on combustible surfaces 
such as hardboard, a limited combustible or noncombustible ring, as 
shown in Figures A and B of this section, must be installed to 
completely cover the combustible surface exposed between the fixture 
canopy and the wiring outlet box.

[[Page 21552]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.023

    (c) Exterior lights. (1) The junction box covers must be removed 
and wire-to-wire connections must be made using listed wire connectors.
    (2) Connect wires black-to-black, white-to-white, and equipment 
ground-to-equipment ground.
    (3) The wires must be pushed into the box, and the lighting fixture 
must be secured to the junction box.
    (4) The lighting fixture must be caulked around its base to ensure 
a watertight seal to the sidewall.
    (5) The light bulb must be installed and the globe must be 
attached.
    (d) Ceiling fans. (1) Ceiling-suspended (paddle) fans must be 
installed with the trailing edges of the blades at least 6 feet 4 
inches above the finished floor.
    (2) The wiring must be connected in accordance with the product 
manufacturer installation instructions.
    (e) Testing. (1) The electrical system must be inspected and tested 
after completion at the site. Testing requirements must be consistent 
with Sec.  3280.810 of this chapter.
    (2) After completion, each manufactured home must be subjected to 
the following tests:
    (i) An electrical continuity test to ensure that metallic parts are 
effectively bonded;
    (ii) Operational tests of all devices and utilization equipment 
except water heaters, electric ranges, electric furnaces, dishwashers, 
clothes washers/dryers, and portable appliances to demonstrate that 
they are connected and in working order; and
    (iii) For electrical equipment installed or completed during 
installation, electrical polarity checks must be completed to determine 
that connections have been made properly. Visual verification is an 
acceptable electrical polarity check.


Sec.  3285.703  Smoke alarms.

    Smoke alarms must be functionally tested in accordance with 
applicable requirements of the smoke alarm manufacturer instructions 
and must be consistent with Sec.  3280.208 of this chapter.


Sec.  3285.704  Telephone and cable TV.

    Refer to Sec.  3285.907 for considerations pertinent to 
installation of telephone and cable TV.

Subpart I--Exterior and Interior Close Up


Sec.  3285.801  Exterior close-up.

    (a) Exterior siding and roofing necessary to join all sections of 
the home must be installed according to the product manufacturer 
installation instructions and must be fastened in accordance with 
designs and manufacturer instructions consistent with Sec. Sec.  
3280.305 and 3280.307 of this chapter. Exterior close-up strips/trim 
must be fastened securely and sealed with exterior sealant (Refer to 
figure A of this section).

[[Page 21553]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.024

    (b) Joints and seams. Where appropriate, all joints and seams in 
exterior wall coverings that were disturbed during location of the home 
must be made weatherproof.
    (c) Prior to installing the siding, the polyethylene sheeting 
covering exterior walls for transit must be completely removed.
    (d) Holes in the roof made in transit or setup must be sealed with 
exterior sealant.
    (e) Mate-line gasket. The home manufacturer must provide materials 
and designs for mate-line gaskets other methods designed to resist the 
entry of air, water, insects, and rodents at all mate-line locations, 
exposed to the exterior (Refer to Figure B of this section).

[[Page 21554]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.025

    (f) Hinged roofs and eaves. Hinged roofs and eaves must be 
completed during installation so as to comply with Sec. Sec.  3280.305 
and 3280.307 of this chapter. However, some hinged roofs may be subject 
to specific On-Site and/or Alternative Construction requirements issued 
separately by the Secretary. Generally, hinged roof homes are not 
subject to such special requirements as long as:
    (1) The homes are designed to be located in Wind Zone 1, and
    (2) The completed hinged roof pitch is less than 7 on 12, and
    (3) Fuel burning appliance flue penetrations are not above the 
hinge.


Sec.  3285.802  Structural interconnection of multi-section homes.

    (a) For multi-section homes, structural interconnections along the 
interior and exterior at the mate-line are necessary to join all 
sections of the home.
    (b) The interconnections must be designed in accordance with Sec.  
3280.305 of this chapter to ensure a completely integrated structure.
    (c) Gaps between the structural elements being interconnected along 
the mate-line of multi-section homes must not exceed 1\1/2\ inches and 
must be shimmed with dimensional lumber. Where gaps exist and shims are 
required, fastener lengths must be increased to require adequate 
penetration of the interconnection fastener into the receiving member.


Sec.  3285.803  Interior close-up.

    (a) All shipping blocking, strapping, or bracing must be removed 
from appliances, windows, and doors.
    (b) Only interior close up items necessary to join all sections of 
the home or items subject to transportation damage may be packaged or 
shipped with the home for site installation.
    (c) At a minimum, all shipped-loose wall paneling, necessary for 
the joining of all sections of the home, must be installed by using 
polyvinyl acetate (PVA) adhesive on all framing members and fastened 
with minimum one-inch long staples or nails at 6 inches on center panel 
edges and 12 inches on center in the field (Refer to Figure to Sec.  
3285.803).

[[Page 21555]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.026


[[Page 21556]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.027

Sec.  3285.804  Bottom board repair.

    (a) The bottom board covering must be inspected for any loosening 
or areas that might have been damaged or torn during installation or 
transportation.
    (b) Any splits or tears must be resealed with tape or patches 
specifically designed for repairs of the bottom board.
    (c) Plumbing P-traps must be checked to be sure they are well 
insulated and covered.
    (d) All edges of patches must be taped.

Subpart J--Recommendations for Manufacturer Installation 
Instructions


Sec.  3285.901  Recommendations for manufacturer installation 
instructions.

    (a) The planning and permitting processes as well as utility 
connection requirements are outside of HUD's authority and may be 
governed by LAHJs. Therefore, these Model Installation Standards do not 
attempt to comprehensively address such requirements.
    (b) Variations to manufacturer installation instructions. When an 
installer does not provide support and anchorage in accordance with the 
approved manufacturer installation instructions or encounters site or 
other conditions that prevent the use of the instructions, the 
installer must obtain and use a design by a registered professional 
engineer or registered architect for the support and anchorage of the 
manufactured home that uses the design loads of the Manufactured Home 
Construction and Safety Standards and provisions for the specific site 
or other conditions.
    (c) Certain provisions must be addressed by manufacturer 
installation instructions in order to protect the manufactured home as 
constructed in accordance with the MHCSS. Manufacturer installation 
instructions must strongly recommend the following cautions to 
installers that address the provisions of this subpart.

[[Page 21557]]

Sec.  3285.902  Moving manufactured home to location.

    The manufactured home is to be moved to the site and placed on the 
site when the site is prepared in accordance with subpart C of this 
part and when the utilities are available as required by the LAHJ.
    (a) Access for the transporter. Before attempting to move a home, 
it must be ensured that the transportation equipment and home can be 
routed to the installation site and that all special transportation 
permits required by the LAHJ have been obtained.
    (b) Positioning the home. The home must be installed and leveled by 
a certified installer.
    (c) Encroachments and setback distances. LAHJ requirements 
regarding encroachments in streets, yards, and courts must be obeyed, 
and permissible setback distances from property lines and public roads 
must be met.
    (d) Fire separation distances must be in accordance with the more 
stringent requirements of the LAHJ or Chapter 6 of NFPA 501A.


Sec.  3285.903  Permits, alterations, and on-site structures.

    (a) Issuance of permits. All necessary LAHJ permits must be 
obtained and all fees must be paid.
    (b) Alterations. Prior to alteration of a home installation, the 
LAHJ must be contacted to determine if plan approval and permits are 
required.
    (c) Installation of on-site structures. (1) All buildings, 
structures, and accessory structures must be designed to support all of 
their own live and dead loads.
    (2) Fire separation distances must be in accordance with the more 
stringent requirements of the LAHJ or NFPA 501A.
    (3) Any attached garage, carport, deck, or porch must be installed 
according to the home manufacturer installation instructions or be 
designed by a registered professional engineer or registered architect 
as approved and required by the LAHJ.


Sec.  3285.904  Drainage structures.

    If acceptable to an LAHJ, ditches and culverts may be used to drain 
surface runoff. Such provisions are subject to all requirements of an 
LAHJ and must be included and considered in the overall site 
preparation.


Sec.  3285.905  Utility system connections.

    (a) Proper procedures. The LAHJ must be consulted before connecting 
the manufactured home to any utilities.
    (b) Where required, only qualified personnel familiar with local 
requirements must be permitted to make utility site connections and 
conduct tests.
    (c) Drainage system. The main drain line must be connected to the 
site's sewer hookup, using an elastomer coupler acceptable to the LAHJ, 
as shown in Figure to Sec.  3285.905.

[[Page 21558]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP26AP05.028

BILLING CODE 4210-27-C
    (d) Fuel supply system. (1) Conversion of gas appliances. A service 
person acceptable to the LAHJ must convert the appliance from one type 
of gas to another, following instructions by the manufacturer of each 
appliance.
    (2) Orifices and regulators. Before making any connections to the 
site supply, the inlet orifices of all gas-burning appliances must be 
checked to ensure they are correctly set up for the type of gas to be 
supplied.
    (3) Connection procedures. Gas-burning appliance vents must be 
inspected to ensure that they are connected to the appliance and that 
roof jacks are properly installed and have not come loose during 
transit.
    (4) Gas appliance startup procedures. When required by an LAHJ, the 
installer must perform the following procedures:
    (i) One at a time, equipment shutoff valves must be opened, pilot 
lights when provided must be lit, and burners and spark igniters for 
automatic ignition systems must be adjusted in accordance with each 
appliance manufacturer instructions.
    (ii) The operation of the furnace and water heater thermostats must 
be checked.


Sec.  3285.906  Heating oil systems.

    (a) Homes equipped with oil burning furnaces must have their oil 
supply tank and piping installed and tested on site in accordance with 
in accordance with

[[Page 21559]]

NFPA 31 or the more stringent requirements of an LAHJ.
    (b) The oil burning furnace manufacturer instructions must be 
consulted for pipe size and installation procedures.
    (c) All oil storage tanks and pipe installations must meet all 
applicable local regulations.
    (d) Tank installation requirements. (1) The tank must be located 
where it is accessible to service and supply and safe from fire and 
other hazards.
    (2) In flood hazard areas, the oil storage tank must be anchored 
and elevated to or above the design flood elevation, or anchored and 
designed to prevent flotation, collapse, or permanent lateral movement 
during the design flood.
    (3) Leak test procedure. Before the system is operated, it must be 
checked for leaks in the tank and supply piping in accordance with NFPA 
31 or more stringent requirements of an LAHJ.


Sec.  3285.907  Telephone and cable TV.

    Telephone and cable TV wiring are not covered by these Installation 
Standards and must be installed in accordance with requirements of the 
LAHJ.

    Dated: March 18, 2005.
John C. Weicher,
Assistant Secretary for Housing--Federal Housing Commissioner.
[FR Doc. 05-7497 Filed 4-25-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4210-27-P