Approved Where?
HUD, modular, site-built: approved where, exactly?
A plain-English map of how factory-built homes get approved in the U.S. — and why “U.S. compliant” usually isn't a real thing.
There isn't one U.S. approval. There are several different paths, and which one applies depends on what the home is and where it's going.
The main paths
- Manufactured homes (HUD Code): built on a permanent chassis to a federal standard, with a HUD label on each section.
- State modular programs: many states approve modular homes built to the state's adopted building code, with third-party inspection at the factory.
- Local site-built review: panel systems and kits are often reviewed by the local building department like any other construction, usually with U.S.-licensed engineering.
The first call to make is to your local building department. Ask what path they would expect for the home you're considering. It costs nothing and saves a great deal.
General information only — not legal, engineering or financial advice.
