Mobile and Manufactured homes have some key differences, but they are both built in factories rather than on the homeowner’s property like a traditional home

Although the terms “mobile” and manufactured” are often interchangeable, they have specific meanings according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Prior to 1976, homes built in a factory were referred to as mobile homes.  After a new federal law mandated stricter safety standards for their construction, they have been referred to as manufactured homes.

A third category, Modular homes, sit on a foundation similar to traditional homes, where mobile and manufactured homes both rest on movable chassis.  Additionally, mobile and manufactured homes must meet federal building standards, while modular homes are subject to the same state and local building codes as traditional homes.

The insurance policies may differ as well. Some companies use standard homeowners policies for modular homes rather than manufactured home insurance.