If you own a home that wasn’t built on-site, you may hear the terms mobile home, manufactured home, and modular home used interchangeably. While they’re related, they’re not the same—and understanding the difference is important, especially when it comes to insurance.
At Smith & Thomas Insurance, we help Florida homeowners understand their options and find the right coverage for their specific type of home.
What is a Mobile Home?
A mobile home generally refers to homes built before June 15, 1976, when new federal construction standards were introduced.
These homes:
- Were built prior to HUD regulations
- Were not constructed under modern federal standards
- May not be as structurally reinforced as newer homes
👉 Because of their age, mobile homes can sometimes be more difficult to insure and may require specialized coverage.
What is a Manufactured Home?
Manufactured homes are built after June 15, 1976, and are constructed according to the standards set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
These homes:
- Are built in a factory and transported to the site
- Meet specific federal building codes
- Can be placed on a permanent or semi-permanent foundation
👉 Most modern “mobile homes” in Florida are actually manufactured homes, even if the term “mobile home” is still commonly used.
What is a Modular Home?
Modular homes are also built in a factory, but they are different from manufactured homes.
These homes:
- Are built to the same local building codes as traditional site-built homes
- Are transported in sections and assembled on a permanent foundation
- Typically resemble a traditional home more closely
👉 Because they meet local building codes, modular homes are often insured similarly to standard houses.
Why the difference matters for insurance.
The type of home you own can affect:
- The type of insurance coverage you need
- The cost of your policy
- The availability of certain carriers
Insurance companies may evaluate mobile, manufactured, and modular homes differently based on:
- Age of the home
- Construction standards
- Structural risks
- Location (especially in Florida with wind and storm exposure)
👉 Knowing exactly what type of home you have helps ensure you get the right coverage.
We’re here to help.
Whether your home is mobile, manufactured, or modular, having the right insurance is important—especially in Florida.
👉 Contact us today for a no-obligation quote or policy review.