Manufactured Home Mediation Program

Since 1989, NYSDRA has contracted with the Division of Housing and Community Renewal's (DHCR) Manufactured Homes Unit to provide mediation in appropriate disputes between park owners and tenants. This arose after a 1988 law empowered DHCR to be able to enforce Section 233 of the Real Property Law.

In order to efficiently respond to tenant concerns, DHCR established a toll-free telephone number (1-800-432-4210), implemented an automated case intake system, contracted with NYSDRA, committed legal resources and designed an overall case processing system based on fast and equitable resolution.

The mobile home population of New York State numbers 80,000 households in over 2,150 mobile home parks.

Many experience classic landlord/tenant problems and the unique problem that many own their own home but not the land upon which it is situated. Mediation is used to handle over 200 cases each year regarding disputes over habitability and other issues arising between tenants and owners in mobile home parks around the state.

The network of Community Dispute Resolution Centers (CDRCs), located in each county of New York State, ensures prompt attention to the conflicts between tenants and park owners.

Since the program began in 1989, over 15,000 cases have been handled by DHCR, over 4,000 of those through mediation.

The requirements of the law indicate that procedures shall ensure that the mediation process is voluntary; that a mediation process shall be made available; that the mediation is conducted by a qualified and impartial mediator who is trained in effective mediation techniques; and that mediation should not be used to deny or delay the right of an individual to other due process rights.

This service is provided cost-free to both tenants and park owners. All costs are covered by a contract between NYSDRA and the Division of Housing and Community Renewal. It is a voluntary process and all complaints and agreements are kept confidential.

What takes place at mediation?
An impartial mediator will meet with the parties to discuss the issues involved. Each person will have the opportunity to express his/her viewpoint and talk about the issues of concern. Possible resolutions will be explored, and solutions may be reached.

Who are the mediators?
The mediators are assigned by the Community Dispute Resolution Center (CDRC) in your county. Mediators share different backgrounds and all have been trained and certified by the CDRC and the NYS Unified Court System, Office of ADR Programs. They are experienced in dispute resolution and have had specialized training in manufactured housing issues.

What do I need to do for mediation?
You need to be able to openly discuss the issues of concern. You may bring any information that you feel is important to do this.

Who will participate in the process?
Tenants and park owners will attend this confidential mediation session, as well as the neutral third party mediator.

Does this cost anything?
This service is provided cost-free to both tenants and park owners. All costs are covered by a contract between the Association and the Division of Housing and Community Renewal.

What if an agreement is reached?
The mediation agreement will be implemented.

What if no agreement is reached?
Requesting and attending mediation is a part of your due process rights. It does not prevent you from continuing with other forms of due process.

The Manufactured Housing Mediation Program is designed to help. Please contact your local Community Dispute Resolution Center (CDRCs) for more information. Click here for a listing of the CDRCs.

You may also call the toll-free DHCR telephone number (1-800-432-4210) or contact one of the DHCR offices:

Albany (Main) Office: Hampton Plaza, 38-40 State Street, Albany, NY 12207, (518)486-6265
Buffalo Office: Ellicott Square Building, 259 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14203, (716)847-3552

Links to Resources:

New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal
The Division's website lists various resources, publications and contacts.