Tenn. Code Ann. 68-126 TENNESSEE CODE ANNOTATED 2015 by The State of Tennessee All rights reserved *** Current through the 2015 Regular Session and amendments approved at the November 4, 2014 General Election *** Title 68 Health, Safety and Environmental Protection Safety Chapter 126 Manufactured Homes Part 1 General Provisions Tenn. Code Ann. 68-126-101 (2015) 68-126-101. Provisions of chapter supplemental. This chapter shall be considered supplemental to 68-102-147. HISTORY: Acts 1972, ch. 718, 13; T.C.A., 53-4814, 68-36-101. 68-126-102. Cooperation with federal government. (a) In order to enable this state to assume responsibility for enforcement of federal manufactured home construction and safety standards established under the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974, compiled in 42 U.S.C. 5401 et seq., the division of fire prevention shall submit to the secretary of the department of housing and urban development a plan for enforcement of such standards. The division of fire prevention, under the supervision and direction of the commissioner of commerce and insurance, shall be responsible for administering the plan throughout the state. The commissioner shall submit to the secretary, as part of the plan, a schedule of inspection fees in an amount to cover the cost of inspection. These fees are to be paid by each manufactured home manufacturer located in the state. (b) For the purpose of implementing such plan, the commissioner is granted all powers with respect to enforcement of the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act, amendments to the act, and regulations promulgated under the act that this state is now or hereafter permitted or required to possess. The commissioner may enter into whatever agreements with the department of housing and urban development, or agency, instrumentality, or representative of the department, the commissioner deems necessary and appropriate for carrying out the commissioner's responsibilities under this section. HISTORY: Acts 1976, ch. 504, 1; 1981, ch. 301, 1, 2; T.C.A., 53-4817; Acts 1987, ch. 120, 1, 2; T.C.A., 68-36-102.
68-126-201. Short title. This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Uniform Standards Code for Manufactured Homes Act." HISTORY: Acts 1979, ch. 310, 1; T.C.A., 53-4821, 68-36-201; Acts 2005, ch. 379, 1. Part 2 Uniform Standards Code for Manufactured Homes Act 68-126-202. Part definitions. Tenn. Code Ann. 68-126-202 (2015) As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of commerce and insurance or the commissioner's designee; (2) "Manufactured home" means a structure, transportable in one (1) or more sections, which, in the traveling mode, is eight (8) body feet or more in width, or forty (40) body feet or more in length, or, when erected on site, is three hundred twenty (320) 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 in the structure; except that "manufactured home" includes any structure that meets all the requirements of this subdivision (2), except the size requirements and with respect to which the manufacturer voluntarily files a certification required by the secretary and complies with the standards established under this title; (3) "Manufacturer" means any person engaged in manufacturing or assembling new manufactured homes; (4) "Mobile home" means a structure manufactured before June 15, 1976, that is not constructed in accordance with the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974, compiled in 42 U.S.C. 5401 et seq. It is a structure that is transportable in one (1) or more sections that in the traveling mode is eight (8) body-feet or more in width and forty (40) body-feet or more in length, or, when erected on site, is three hundred twenty (320) or more square feet and that is built on a chassis and designed to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent foundation when connected to the required utilities and includes any plumbing, heating, air conditioning and electrical systems contained in the structure; (5) "Personal use" means use of property by a person or entity not for business purposes and the use of which is not substantially connected with a trade or business or an activity for the production or collection of income;
(6) (A) "Retailer" means any person: (i) Engaged in the sale, leasing, or distribution of new manufactured homes primarily to persons who in good faith purchase or lease a manufactured home for purposes other than resale; or (ii) Engaged in the sale, leasing, or distribution of used manufactured homes; (B) "Retailer" does not include any person who sells or leases a manufactured home, if such manufactured home was owned for such person's personal use prior to such sale or lease; any person or persons owning manufactured homes for the purpose of renting or leasing only; or any financial institution that is engaged in the sale, leasing, or distribution of new and used manufactured homes; (7) "Secretary" means the secretary of the United States department of housing and urban development; and (8) "Set up" means installation of the manufactured home according to the manufacturer's installation instructions or those provided in 68-126-403(c)(2), (3), and (4) for new manufactured homes and in 68-126-403(d)(2), (3), and (4) for used manufactured homes, and includes, but is not limited to: site preparation; support structures, including footings, piers, caps, and shims; anchoring systems; ground moisture barriers; connection, fastening, moisture barrier installation between sections, and roofing dry-in of multi-sections; HVAC duct connections; plumbing and electrical crossover connections; completion of exterior siding; installation of heating application ventilation systems or fireplace chimney systems; and completion of hinged-roof sections. HISTORY: Acts 1979, ch. 310, 2; 1981, ch. 301, 1, 3-5; 1982, ch. 732, 1-3; T.C.A., 68-4822; Acts 1987, ch. 120, 3-6; T.C.A., 68-36-202; Acts 2002, ch. 793, 1-4; 2003, ch. 80, 1, 5; 2005, ch. 379, 2-4; 2015, ch. 483, 1, 2. 68-126-203. Policy and purpose. Manufactured homes, like other finished products having concealed vital parts, may present hazards to the health, life and safety of persons and to the safety of property unless properly manufactured. In the sale or rental of manufactured homes, there is also the possibility of defects not readily ascertainable when inspected by purchasers. It is the policy and purpose of this state to provide protection to the public against those possible hazards, and for that purpose to forbid the manufacture and sale or lease of manufactured homes that are not so constructed as to provide reasonable safety and protection to their owners and users. HISTORY: Acts 1979, ch. 310, 3; T.C.A., 53-4823; Acts 1987, ch. 120, 3; T.C.A., 68-36-203; Acts 2005, ch. 379, 5.
68-126-204. Investigation of materials and construction -- Inspections -- Standards -- Rules and regulations. (a) The commissioner is authorized and directed to investigate and examine engineering and construction practices and techniques, the properties of construction materials used in the construction and assembly of manufactured homes, their electrical, plumbing, heating and other systems and appliances, fire prevention and protective techniques, and measures to promote safety of persons and property and protect the health of users of such manufactured homes. (b) The commissioner is authorized and directed to establish minimum safety standards for used manufactured homes offered for sale by dealers to consumers located within this state. (c) The commissioner, in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, may promulgate rules embodying construction and safety standards for manufactured homes. In the formulation of such standards, the commissioner shall strive to protect the public to a reasonable degree from hazards associated with such products, without unduly increasing their cost to consumers. Toward this end, the commissioner may, but is not required to, adopt the standards recommended by any recognized organization or testing laboratory, including the American National Standards Institute. (d) In order that there be no duplication of inspections, all electrical and heating systems and appliances shall continue to be inspected pursuant to chapter 102 of this title; and inspection and payment of all fees required by chapter 102 of this title shall be deemed compliance with this chapter insofar as electrical and heating systems and appliances are concerned. (e) The commissioner, in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, may also issue and promulgate all rules and procedures that in the commissioner's judgment, are necessary and desirable to make effective the standards so established. HISTORY: Acts 1979, ch. 310, 4; 1981, ch. 301, 6; T.C.A., 53-4824; Acts 1987, ch. 120, 3; T.C.A., 68-36-204; Acts 2005, ch. 379, 6. 68-126-205. Manufacture, sale or lease in violation of rules prohibited -- "Set-up" required. (a) No person may manufacture, sell, lease, or offer to sell or lease any manufactured home in violation of rules of the commissioner issued to afford reasonable protection to persons and property with respect to the construction, assembly, and sale or lease of such manufactured homes. Compliance with such rules shall be evidenced in the manner required in this part.
(b) Any retailer who sells a manufactured home to a consumer in this state shall either: (1) Provide set-up as provided in 68-126-403; or (2) Cause the home to be set up, as provided in 68-126-403, by a licensed manufactured home installer approved and bonded in accordance with 68-126-404. HISTORY: Acts 1979, ch. 310, 5; 1981, ch. 301, 7; 1982, ch. 732, 4; T.C.A., 53-4825; Acts 1987, ch. 120, 3; T.C.A., 68-36-205; Acts 2001, ch. 34, 1, 2; 2002, ch. 793, 1, 5; 2003, ch. 80, 2; 2005, ch. 379, 7; 2015, ch. 483, 3. 68-126-206. Licensing of manufacturers and dealers -- Bond -- Service of process on foreign manufacturers or dealers. (a) (1) It is unlawful to engage in business in this state as a manufacturer or retailer prior to obtaining a license from the commissioner. The commissioner may require of an applicant for a license such information and evidence of qualifications as are reasonably necessary to protect the public safety and welfare. An application for a license shall be submitted on the prescribed form, shall contain the applicant's business tax or privilege tax number, and shall be accompanied by payment of a fee as set by the commissioner by rule, promulgated pursuant to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5; provided, however, that the first percentage increase after January 1, 2016, shall not exceed one hundred percent (100%) of the current fee for a manufacturer's license or retail license; provided, further, that the fee for a manufacturer's license shall not exceed five hundred dollars ($500), and the fee for a retailer's license shall not exceed two hundred fifty dollars ($250). License fees shall be payable annually, and shall not be prorated for portions of a year. All licenses shall expire one (1) year from the date of issuance. The licensing requirements shall not apply to individual employees of a licensed retailer; provided, however, that at least one (1) employee of a licensed retailer who is directly involved in the installation of a manufactured home is required to be certified by the commissioner. In order to obtain such certification, the employee shall have completed a fifteen-hour course and shall have passed an examination in manufactured home installation approved by the commissioner. At least one (1) certified employee shall be physically on site at the time of installation of any manufactured home. (2) In addition to meeting other lawful requirements, an applicant for a license as a retailer shall present, at the time of application, proof of having completed a fifteen-hour course, approved by the commissioner, covering the installation of manufactured homes. (3) Prior to being issued a license as a retailer, an applicant shall have passed an examination in manufactured home installation that is approved by the commissioner. (4) Failure to comply with the requirements of this subsection (a) shall result in nonrenewal of the license, that shall be known as a retailer license.
(b) As a prerequisite to renewal of a license as a retailer, the retailer shall present proof of having completed five (5) hours of continuing education in manufactured home installation, during the twelve-month period immediately preceding renewal, that is approved by the commissioner. Any manufacturer or retailer who fails to renew such manufacturer's or retailer's license on or before its expiration date, or who commences business in this state prior to obtaining a license, shall be required to pay a penalty, in an amount the commissioner may determine by rule, for acting as a manufacturer or retailer without a license, in addition to the fee established in subsection (a) for issuance of a license. (c) A separate license must be obtained for each manufacturing plant and retailer lot. (d) (1) Any applicant for license as a manufacturer or retailer of a manufactured home or manufactured homes shall furnish a surety bond executed by the applicant, as principal, and by a surety company qualified to do business in this state, as surety. The bond shall be in a form approved by the department of commerce and insurance, and shall be executed to the department in favor of any person who may suffer loss or damage resulting from the applicant's violation of the conditions of such bond. (2) The bond required by subdivision (d)(1) shall be for the license period and a new bond or a proper continuation certificate shall be submitted with each application for renewal of such license. (3) Each manufacturer's bond shall be in the amount of fifty thousand dollars ($50,000), conditioned upon the manufacturer's compliance with this part, and all rules duly promulgated under this part. Each retailer's bond shall be in the amount of twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000), conditioned upon the retailer's compliance with this part, the Tennessee Manufactured Home Anchoring Act, compiled in part 4 of this chapter, and all rules duly promulgated under part 4 of this chapter. (4) The aggregate liability of the surety in each license year shall in no event exceed the amount of the bond. (5) A separate bond shall not be required for each place of business operated by a manufacturer or retailer. (6) This subsection (d) shall not apply to a manufacturer of manufactured homes that is not subject to the manufactured home construction and safety standards established under the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C. 5401 et seq.). (e) (1) Any foreign or alien manufacturer or retailer shall, by duly executed instrument filed in such manufacturer's or retailer's office, constitute and appoint the commissioner and the commissioner's chief deputy, or their successors, its true and lawful attorneys upon either of whom all lawful process in any action or legal proceeding against it may be served, and in the instrument shall agree that any lawful process against it, which may be served upon the attorney, shall be of the same force and validity as if served on the company, and that the authority of the instrument shall continue in force, irrevocably, as long as any liability of the manufacturer or retailer remains outstanding in this state. Any process issued by any court of record in this state and served upon such commissioner or the
commissioner's chief deputy by the proper officer of the county in which the commissioner or the commissioner's chief deputy may have an office, shall be deemed a sufficient process on the manufacturer and retailer, and it is the duty of the commissioner or the commissioner's chief deputy, promptly, after such service of process by any claimant, to forward, by registered mail, an exact copy of such notice to the manufacturer and retailer. Service of process from any county in this state upon the commissioner or the commissioner's chief deputy by the proper officer of the county in which the commissioner or the commissioner's chief deputy may have an office shall establish proper venue in the county from which the process was issued, if the plaintiff resides in that county, whether the manufacturer or retailer has an office or place of business located in one (1) or more other counties of this state or not. (2) If any such manufacturer or retailer does business in this state without having appointed the commissioner its true and lawful attorney as required in this subsection (e), it shall, by doing such business in the state, be deemed to have thereby appointed the commissioner its true and lawful attorney for the purposes set forth in this subsection (e). The requirements of this subsection (e) shall be in addition to, and not in derogation of, any other provision of law. (3) In the case of any action or proceeding instituted by or on behalf of the commissioner against or with reference to any such company, process may be lawfully served on the secretary of state. (4) Service of process shall be made by leaving two (2) copies of the process or notice, together with a fee of six dollars ($6.00), in the office of the commissioner, together with an affidavit giving the latest known address of the defendant, and such service shall be sufficient, if notice of such service and a copy of the process or notice are forthwith sent by registered mail, with return receipt requested, by the commissioner to the company at such latest known address. An affidavit of the commissioner showing compliance with this subdivision (e)(4) shall be filed with the paper in the action or proceeding. The court in which the action or proceeding is pending may order such continuances as may be necessary to afford the defendant reasonable opportunity to defend the action. No judgment shall be entered against any such defendant under this section until at least thirty (30) days have elapsed after process or notice has been served on the commissioner. (5) The references in this section to the commissioner shall, in the case of any action or proceeding instituted by or on behalf of the commissioner, be deemed to refer to the secretary of state, and the duties and responsibilities imposed by this section shall, in such cases, be performed and discharged by the secretary of state. HISTORY: Acts 1979, ch. 310, 6; 1981, ch. 301, 8; 1982, ch. 732, 5; T.C.A., 53-4826; Acts 1985, ch. 354, 29; 1987, ch. 120, 3; 1988, ch. 634, 1; T.C.A., 68-36- 206; Acts 2002, ch. 793, 1, 6, 7; 2004, ch. 913, 1; 2015, ch. 483, 4.
68-126-207. Monitoring inspection fee. The commissioner may establish a monitoring inspection fee in an amount established by the secretary. This monitoring inspection fee shall be an amount paid by each manufactured home manufacturer in this state for each manufactured home produced by the manufacturer in this state. The monitoring inspection fee shall be paid by the manufacturer to the secretary or the secretary's agent, who shall distribute the fees collected from all manufactured home manufacturers among the approved and conditionally approved states based on the number of new manufactured homes whose first location after leaving the manufacturing plant is on the premises of a distributor, retailer or purchaser in that state, and the extent of participation of the state in the joint team monitoring program established under the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974, compiled in 42 U.S.C. 5401 et seq. HISTORY: Acts 1979, ch. 310, 7; 1981, ch. 301, 1; T.C.A., 53-4827; Acts 1987, ch. 120, 7, 8; T.C.A., 68-36-207; Acts 2002, ch. 793, 1; 2005, ch. 379, 8. 68-126-208. Furnishing of reports and information. Each manufacturer, distributor, and retailer of manufactured homes shall establish and maintain such records, make such reports, and provide such information as the commissioner or the secretary may reasonably require to be able to determine whether such manufacturer, distributor, or retailer has acted or is acting in compliance with this part or the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974, compiled in 42 U.S.C. 5401 et seq., and shall, upon request of a person duly designated by the commissioner or the secretary, permit such person to inspect appropriate books, papers, records and documents relevant to determining whether such manufacturer, distributor, or retailer has acted or is acting in compliance with such acts. HISTORY: Acts 1979, ch. 310, 8; T.C.A., 53-4828; Acts 1987, ch. 120, 3, 9; T.C.A., 68-36-208; Acts 2002, ch. 793, 1; 2005, ch. 379, 9. 68-126-209. Exemptions. In the issuance of rules and regulations pursuant to this part, the commissioner may provide appropriate exemption or exception with respect to a manufactured home or manufactured homes which have been inspected and approved by a nationally recognized and approved testing agency or laboratory, or an individual or agency authorized to make such inspection by the state fire marshal. HISTORY: Acts 1979, ch. 310, 9; T.C.A., 53-4829; Acts 1987, ch. 120, 3; T.C.A., 68-36-209; Acts 2005, ch. 379, 10.
68-126-210. Administration of part -- Investigations and inspections. The commissioner is charged with the administration of this part. The commissioner may, in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, promulgate general rules and regulations of procedure for carrying into effect all provisions of this part, and for obtaining statistical data respecting manufactured homes. The commissioner may also make such investigations and inspections as in the commissioner's judgment are necessary to enforce and administer this part. HISTORY: Acts 1979, ch. 310, 10; T.C.A., 53-4830; Acts 1987, ch. 120, 3; T.C.A., 68-36-210; Acts 2005, ch. 379, 11. 68-126-211. Inspections by commissioner or authorized representatives. (a) The commissioner and the commissioner's authorized representatives, upon showing proper credentials and in the discharge of their duties pursuant to this part or the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974, compiled in 42 U.S.C. 5401 et seq., are authorized, at reasonable hours and without advance notice, to enter and inspect all factories, warehouses, establishments or locations in this state in which manufactured homes are manufactured, sold, leased or distributed. (b) No person may interfere with, obstruct or hinder an authorized representative of the commissioner who displays proper credentials in the performance of such representative's duties as set forth in this part. HISTORY: Acts 1979, ch. 310, 11; T.C.A., 53-4831; Acts 1987, ch. 120, 3, 10; T.C.A., 68-36-211; Acts 2005, ch. 379, 12. 68-126-212. Violations -- Penalties. (a) Whoever violates any provision of the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C. 5401 et seq.), or any regulation or final order issued under that act, shall be liable for a civil penalty not to exceed one thousand one hundred dollars ($1,100) for each such violation. Each violation of a provision of such act, or any regulation or order issued under that act, constitutes a separate violation with respect to each manufactured home or with respect to each failure or refusal to allow or perform an act required by the act, except that the maximum civil penalty may not exceed one million three hundred seventy-five thousand dollars ($1,375,000) for any related series of violations occurring within one (1) year from the date of the first violation. (b) Any individual, or director, officer or agent of a corporation who knowingly and willfully violates the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974, in a manner which threatens the health or safety of any purchaser commits a Class A misdemeanor.
(c) Any violation of this part, or of any rule or regulation made under this part, which is not covered by subsection (a) or (b), is a Class C misdemeanor. HISTORY: Acts 1979, ch. 310, 12; 1981, ch. 301, 1; T.C.A., 53-4832; Acts 1987, ch. 120, 11, 12; 1989, ch. 591, 1, 6, 113; T.C.A., 68-36-212; 2015, ch. 483, 5. 68-126-213. Revocation or suspension of license. The commissioner may, in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, revoke or suspend any license issued pursuant to 68-126- 206, if the commissioner finds that the holder of such license has willfully violated any provision of this part or any rule or regulation adopted under this part, or has obtained such license by fraud or misrepresentation. HISTORY: Acts 1979, ch. 310, 13; T.C.A., 53-4833, 68-36-213. 68-126-214. Reciprocal agreements with officials of other states. In order to eliminate unnecessary duplication of reviews of designs, inspections, certifications of manufactured homes, and licensure of installers, the commissioner may negotiate and enter into reciprocal agreements with appropriate officials of other states, or with an agent for such states. However, no such agreement shall be entered into if the commissioner determines that it would not provide protection at least equivalent to that afforded by the standards and procedures established under this part. HISTORY: Acts 1979, ch. 310, 14; T.C.A., 53-4834; Acts 1987, ch. 120, 3; T.C.A., 68-36-214; Acts 2002, ch. 793, 8; 2005, ch. 379, 13. 68-126-215. Disposition of revenue. All revenue resulting from the administration and enforcement of this part shall be placed to the credit of the manufactured housing fund created by 68-126-406(c) and shall be used accordingly. HISTORY: Acts 1979, ch. 310, 15; T.C.A., 53-4835, 68-36-215; Acts 2002, ch. 793, 9.
Tenn. Code Ann. 68-126-301 TENNESSEE CODE ANNOTATED 2015 by The State of Tennessee All rights reserved *** Current through the 2015 Regular Session and amendments approved at the November 4, 2014 General Election *** Title 68 Health, Safety and Environmental Protection Safety Chapter 126 Manufactured Homes Part 3 Tennessee Modular Building Act Tenn. Code Ann. 68-126-301 (2015) 68-126-301. Short title. This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Tennessee Modular Building Act." HISTORY: Acts 1985, ch. 309, 2; 1987, ch. 120, 13; T.C.A., 68-36-301. 68-126-302. Legislative findings -- Purpose -- Standards. (a) The general assembly finds that, in an effort to meet the building needs within the state, the private construction industry has developed mass production techniques that can substantially reduce construction costs, and that the mass production of buildings presents unique problems with respect to the establishment of uniform health and safety standards and inspection procedures. The general assembly further finds that, by minimizing the problems of standards and inspection procedures, it is demonstrating its intention to encourage the reduction of building construction costs and to make building and home ownership more feasible for all residents of the state. (b) Because of the nature of the construction of modular building units that arrive at the site of installation with some or all of the electrical, mechanical, plumbing and other systems already built into the unit and not able to be inspected at the site without disassembly or destruction, it is the purpose of this part to provide for the inspection of modular building units for compliance with building codes at the place of manufacture. (c) The commissioner is authorized to set standards for the construction and installation of modular building units, and to provide for the inspection of such units by the department, by an approved inspection agency or by reciprocal agreement with other states. HISTORY: Acts 1985, ch. 309, 2; T.C.A., 68-36-302; Acts 2007, ch. 232, 1.
68-126-303. Part definitions. As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Approved inspection agency" means a person, organization or local government approved by the commissioner to be especially qualified by reason of facilities, personnel, experience, and demonstrated reliability, to investigate, test, evaluate and inspect modular building units, systems, or the component parts of modular building units together with the plans, specifications, and quality control procedures to ensure that such units, systems, or component parts are in full compliance with the standards adopted by the commissioner pursuant to this part and to label such units complying with those standards. Any person, or any organization whose membership is composed of persons, employed by a manufacturer of modular units or owning any interest in any such manufacturing business, shall be ineligible for approval by the commissioner to serve as an inspection agency; (2) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of commerce and insurance; (3) "Component" means any assembly, sub-assembly, or combination of elements for use as a part of a modular building unit, which may include the structural, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, fire protection, or other structurally integrated system or systems thereof affecting life safety; (4) "Department" means the department of commerce and insurance; (5) "Guard shelter" means a structure used exclusively for the purpose of providing shelter for no more than two (2) persons who are watching over or protecting a person or place or supervising prisoners; (6) "Installation" means the assembly of modular building units on-site and/or the process of affixing modular building-related components to land, a foundation, footings, utilities, or an existing building; (7) "Local government" means any political subdivision of this state with authority to establish standards and requirements applicable to the construction, installation, alteration and repairs of buildings; (8) "Modular building unit" means a structural unit, or preassembled component unit, including the necessary electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilating and other service systems, manufactured off-site and transported to the point of use for installation or erection, with or without other specified components, as a finished building. "Modular building unit" does not apply to temporary structures used exclusively for construction purposes, nonresidential farm buildings, or ready-removables that are not modular structures; (9) "Ready-removable" means a structure without any foundation, footings, or other support mechanisms that allow a structure to be easily relocated but which may include electrical wiring. Ready-removable structures include, but are not limited to, stadium press boxes, guard shelters, or structures that contain only electrical, electronic, or mechanical equipment that are solely occupied for service or maintenance of such equipment; and
(10) "Structure" means any building or improvement and its components, systems, fixtures, and appurtenances at the time of completion or construction. HISTORY: Acts 1985, ch. 309, 3; 1987, ch. 120, 14-16; T.C.A., 68-36-303; Acts 2007, ch. 232, 2, 3; 2012, ch. 589, 1, 2. 68-126-304. Prerequisites to sale or installation -- Local requirements. (a) (1) After the effective date of the rules adopted pursuant to this part, no modular building unit shall be offered for sale, sold, or installed in this state, unless it is approved and bears the insignia of approval of the commissioner, the commissioner's designee, or an approved inspection agency. (2) All modular building units manufactured in this state, or intended to be offered for sale, sold, or installed in this state, shall be inspected by the commissioner, the commissioner's designee, or an approved inspection agency, at the place of manufacture of the modular building unit. (b) (1) No local standard relating to the construction or installation of modular building units shall be applicable to any modular building unit subject to this part, unless such standard is identical to that set by the commissioner pursuant to 68-126-302. (2) Any modular building unit bearing an insignia of approval issued by the commissioner, the commissioner's designee, or an approved inspection agency pursuant to this part, shall be deemed to comply with any local standard relating to the construction of modular building units. (3) Subject to subdivision (b)(1), a local government may make, and charge a fee for, an inspection of the installation of a modular building unit. Such fee shall be equal to the amount charged for a similar inspection on conventionally built housing. (4) Local land use and zoning requirements, fire zones, building setback requirements, side and rear yard requirements, subdivision control, as well as the review and regulation of aesthetic requirements, are specifically and entirely reserved to local government. Such local requirements and rules that may be enacted by a local government must be reasonable and uniformly applied and enforced without any distinction as to whether a building is a conventionally constructed or modular building. (5) Modular building units bearing an insignia of approval issued by the commissioner, the commissioner's designee, or an approved inspection agency pursuant to this part shall not be modified prior to or during installation, except in conformance with the rules of the commissioner. HISTORY: Acts 1985, ch. 309, 4; T.C.A., 68-36-304.
68-126-305. Powers and duties of commissioner. (a) (1) The commissioner shall enforce and administer this part. (2) The commissioner shall promulgate such rules and regulations as the commissioner finds necessary to carry out this part, in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5. (3) The commissioner is authorized to require licenses of manufacturers, dealers, and any other person involved in the construction, installation, sale or lease of a modular building unit, and to set reasonable fees and conditions for such licenses. (b) In addition to any other powers conferred on the commissioner by law, the commissioner may: (1) Prescribe all forms required to be filed pursuant to this part; (2) Establish a schedule of fees to pay the cost incurred by the department for the administration and enforcement of this part; (3) Appoint and employ such personnel as are necessary to carry out the duties imposed upon the commissioner by this part; (4) Delegate inspection authority under this part, by contract or other agreement, to local governments, private persons, corporations, associations, and agencies of other states, as an approved inspection agency; and (5) Assess civil penalties not to exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000) for each violation of this part. (c) If a modular building is manufactured, sold, or installed in violation of this part, the commissioner may require: (1) The manufacturer, dealer, or installer in violation of this part to provide the commissioner with as-built plans to be evaluated and approved by the commissioner for compliance with state building codes; (2) The manufacturer, dealer, or installer in violation of this part to make available for inspection any components and concealed spaces of the structure and to repair any damages made when making the components and concealed spaces available for inspection; (3) Inspections to be made during the remanufacturing process and may require that concealed spaces be opened or made accessible as necessary to determine that components comply with state building codes; and (4) The manufacturer, dealer, or installer to be responsible for all costs or expenses incurred pursuant to this subsection (c).
HISTORY: Acts 1985, ch. 309, 5; T.C.A., 68-36-305; Acts 2007, ch. 232, 4-7. 68-126-306. Reciprocity -- Interstate agreements. If the commissioner determines that the standards for construction and inspection of modular building units prescribed by statute or rule of another state are at least equal to rules prescribed under this part and that such standards are actually enforced by such other state, the commissioner may negotiate and enter into reciprocal agreements with appropriate officials of other states, or with an agent for such states. Any modular building unit inspected and approved under such an agreement shall be deemed to have been approved by the commissioner. HISTORY: Acts 1985, ch. 309, 6; T.C.A., 68-36-306. 68-126-307. Judicial relief to compel compliance. The department may seek injunctive or other relief to compel compliance with the requirements of this part or with rules issued pursuant to this part, or to enjoin the sale, delivery, or installation of a modular building unit. Such relief may be sought in the chancery court of the county in which the modular building unit that is the subject of the action is located, or of the county in which such unit was manufactured, or of Davidson County. HISTORY: Acts 1985, ch. 309, 7; 1987, ch. 120, 17; T.C.A., 68-36-307. 68-126-308. Violation a misdemeanor. A violation of any provision of this part is a Class B misdemeanor. HISTORY: Acts 1985, ch. 308, 8; 1989, ch. 591, 112; T.C.A., 68-36-308. 68-126-309. Disposition of revenue. All revenue resulting from the administration and enforcement of this part constitutes expendable receipts of the division of fire prevention. HISTORY: Acts 1985, ch. 309, 9; T.C.A., 68-36-309.
68-126-310. Exemption from licensure requirements for local education agencies. A local education agency (LEA) whose students, under supervision of vocational/industrial instructors, construct, as part of a vocational/industrial curriculum, modular building units shall be exempt from all licensure requirements of this part; provided, however, that: (1) The LEA constructs no more than five (5) modular buildings per school per school year; (2) Each modular building's structural and electrical systems are inspected from its initial stages of construction by qualified building and electrical inspectors; (3) Each modular building meets all applicable local building codes and, when installed at a permanent site, is inspected by local building officials as a site-built structure; and (4) The LEA provides the purchaser of a modular building with a statement disclosing that it does not comply with this part. The LEA shall retain a copy of the statement signed by the purchaser. HISTORY: Acts 2003, ch. 14, 1; 2008, ch. 691, 1-4. 68-126-311. Requirements for ready-removables with electrical wiring. (a) Ready-removables with electrical wiring must still meet applicable state and local electrical permitting requirements, local building permitting requirements, and have hardwired smoke alarms installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. (b) No ready-removable shall be modified for use as residential, recreational, or emergency housing in this state. HISTORY: Acts 2012, ch. 589, 3. 68-126-312 -- 68-126-319. [Reserved.] 68-126-320. [Repealed.]
Tenn. Code Ann. 68-126-401 TENNESSEE CODE ANNOTATED 2015 by The State of Tennessee All rights reserved *** Current through the 2015 Regular Session and amendments approved at the November 4, 2014 General Election *** 68-126-401. Short title. Title 68 Health, Safety and Environmental Protection Safety Chapter 126 Manufactured Homes Part 4 Tennessee Manufactured Home Installation Act Tenn. Code Ann. 68-126-401 (2015) This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Tennessee Manufactured Home Installation Act." HISTORY: Acts 1976, ch. 626, 1; 1981, ch. 301, 9; T.C.A., 53-6201, 68-45-101, 68-36-401; Acts 2002, ch. 793, 10. 68-126-402. Part definitions. As used in this part, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Commissioner" means the commissioner of commerce and insurance or the commissioner's designee; (2) "Installer" means a licensed manufactured home installer, or a licensed manufactured home retailer. It does not include individual employees of licensed installers and retailers, unless such individuals are duly licensed as installers or retailers in accordance with this chapter; (3) "Manufactured home" is defined as in 68-126-202; (4) "Person" means any individual, firm, association, corporation, or legal entity; and (5) "Set-up" means an installation of the manufactured home according to the manufacturer's installation instructions or those provided in 68-126-403(c)(2)-(4), and includes, but is not limited to, site preparation; support structures, including footings, piers, caps and shims; anchoring systems; connection, fastening, moisture barrier installation between sections, and roofing dry-in of multi-sections; HVAC duct connections; plumbing and electrical cross-over connections; completion of exterior siding; installation of heating application ventilation systems or fireplace chimney systems; and completion of hinged roof sections.
HISTORY: Acts 1976, ch. 626, 2; 1981, ch. 301, 9-11; T.C.A., 53-6202, 68-45- 102, 68-36-402; Acts 2002, ch. 793, 11, 12; 2004, ch. 913, 2, 3. 68-126-403. Installation criteria and standards. (a) It is unlawful to occupy any manufactured home in this state, unless the manufactured home has been installed by a person licensed by the commissioner to make such installation. (b) It is unlawful for any person to locate or relocate any manufactured home in this state, other than a home heretofore exempt, or a home previously installed and inspected according to rules in effect at the time of location on the site, unless the installation of the manufactured home has been done by a person licensed by the commissioner to make such installation. (c) New homes shall be installed according to the following criteria: (1) In compliance with manufacturer instructions that are Design Approval Primary Inspection Agency (DAPIA) approved, if provided or available; (2) (A) If the manufacturer has not provided or does not make available suitable instructions, then the home shall be installed according to instructions that, at a minimum, meet federal manufactured home installation standards as provided in 24 CFR 3285, promulgated pursuant to the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C. 5401 et seq.) and are prepared and sealed by an engineer registered in this state; or (B) If an alternative to subdivision (c)(1) or (c)(2)(a) is required, the installation of the home shall, at a minimum, meet federal manufactured home installation standards as provided in 24 CFR 3285, promulgated pursuant to the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974; and (3) Installation shall comply with federal emergency management agency regulations applicable to flood zones. (d) Used homes installed after July 1, 2003, shall be installed according to the following criteria: (1) In compliance with the manufacturer's manual in use at the time the home was manufactured; (2) As an alternative to subdivision (d)(1), the home shall be installed according to instructions prepared and sealed by an engineer registered in the state of Tennessee; or
(3) As an alternative to subdivisions (d)(1) and (2), the home may be installed according to the instructions in ANSI 225.1, 1994 Edition, until such time as federal standards are implemented pursuant to the Manufactured Housing Improvement Act of 2000, at which time the federal standards shall supplant the ANSI 225.1, 1994 Edition, instructions; and (4) In addition to the requirements of subdivisions (d)(1), (d)(2) or (d)(3), installation shall comply with federal emergency management agency regulations applicable to flood zones. (e) The provisions of subdivision (d)(3) that would require French drains shall not apply to manufactured homes installed in any portion of a mobile home or manufactured home trailer park operating as such on or before January 1, 2004, in which all the lots have all underground utilities, so long as the installation otherwise 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. HISTORY: Acts 1976, ch. 626, 3; 1981, ch. 301, 9, 12; T.C.A., 53-6203, 68-45- 103, 68-36-403; Acts 2002, ch. 793, 13; 2005, ch. 160, 1; 2015, ch. 483, 6. 68-126-404. Licensing and certification of installers -- Fees, bonds, and penalties. (a) No person may install a manufactured home in this state unless such person is licensed by the commissioner as an installer. Any subcontractor used by an installer to perform installation work in accordance with 68-126-205 shall be duly licensed as an installer or shall be covered under the installer's bond. At least one (1) person who actually performs installation work at the site shall be certified by the commissioner in accordance with subdivision (d)(2). (b) In addition to meeting other lawful requirements, an applicant for a license as an installer shall present, at the time of application, proof of having completed a fifteen-hour course, approved by the commissioner, covering the installation of manufactured homes. (c) Prior to being issued a license as an installer, an applicant shall have passed an examination in manufactured home installation that is approved by the commissioner. (d) (1) An application for a license as an installer shall be submitted on a form prescribed by the commissioner, and shall be accompanied by a fee as set by the commissioner by rule, promulgated pursuant to the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5; provided, however, that the first percentage increase after January 1, 2016, shall not exceed one hundred percent (100%) of the current fee; provided, further, that the fee for an installer's license shall not exceed one hundred twenty-five dollars ($125). An application for a license as an installer shall be accompanied by a surety bond executed by the applicant as principal and by a surety company qualified to do business in this state as a surety. The bond shall be executed to the state of Tennessee and in favor of any consumer who shall suffer any loss as a result of the violation of this part. The bond shall be in the
amount of ten thousand dollars ($10,000). The installer license fee shall be paid annually and shall not be prorated for portions of a year. All licenses shall expire one (1) year from the date of issuance. (2) An application for certification by an employee of an installer shall be submitted on a form prescribed by the commissioner and shall be accompanied by proof of having completed a fifteen-hour course and passed an examination approved by the commissioner covering the installation of manufactured homes. The license fee and bond requirements specified in subdivision (d)(1) shall not apply to applicants for certification. All certifications shall expire one (1) year from the date of issuance. (3) The application for a license as an installer shall specify each employee who has been certified by the commissioner as having successfully completed the examination for manufactured home retailers and installers, and who will or may be physically on site at the time of setup of any manufactured home. (4) In addition to the license fee for the issuance of an installer license, any installer who fails to renew such installer license on or before its expiration date or who commences business in this state prior to obtaining a license shall be required to pay a penalty in an amount that the commissioner may determine by duly promulgated rule for acting as an installer without a license. (e) In addition to the requirements of subdivision (d)(1), after January 1, 2004, and as a prerequisite to renewal of a license as an installer, the installer shall present proof of having completed five (5) hours of continuing education in manufactured home installation, approved by the commissioner, during the twelve-month period immediately preceding renewal. After January 1, 2004, any person desiring to renew certification shall present proof of having completed five (5) hours of continuing education in manufactured home installation, approved by the commissioner, during the twelve-month period immediately preceding renewal. (f) The commissioner may require installers to establish and maintain such records, make such reports, and provide such information as may be necessary to ensure compliance with this part. (g) Installers of HVAC systems who are engaged in the activities described in 68-126- 402(4) in conjunction with the installation of HVAC systems are exempt from the requirements of this section. HISTORY: Acts 1976, ch. 626, 4; 1981, ch. 301, 13; T.C.A., 53-6204, 68-45-104, 68-36-404; Acts 2001, ch. 34, 3; 2002, ch. 793, 14; 2003, ch. 80, 3; 2004, ch. 913, 4; 2015, ch. 483, 7.
68-126-405. Administration -- Rules and regulations -- Standards. (a) The state fire marshal is charged with the administration of this part. (b) The state fire marshal shall, in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, promulgate rules and regulations for carrying into effect all provisions of this part. (1) The rules and regulations shall include standards for the manufacture, approval, and installation of anchor systems. (2) In the formulation of such standards, the state fire marshal shall strive to protect the public to a reasonable degree from dangers associated with overturning and sliding of manufactured homes, without unduly increasing their cost to consumers. (3) The state fire marshal shall include, in the rules and regulations required above, minimum standards for support systems for manufactured homes. HISTORY: Acts 1976, ch. 626, 5; 1981, ch. 301, 9, 14; T.C.A., 53-6205, 68-45- 105, 68-36-405. 68-126-406. Inspection -- Permit -- Fee. (a) All manufactured homes required to be installed pursuant to 68-126-403 may be inspected for compliance with applicable standards by qualified manufactured housing inspectors provided by the commissioner. Such inspectors shall have specialized training in manufactured housing installation inspection. The form and manner of training shall be determined by the commissioner. (b) The installer shall apply for an installation permit prior to installing a manufactured home and shall pay an inspection fee of forty-five dollars ($45.00). The permit may be purchased and the fee shall be paid to the county clerk in any county of this state. The county clerk shall retain eight dollars ($8.00) of each permit fee and remit thirty-seven dollars ($37.00) to the commissioner. The fees shall be remitted to the commissioner on a monthly basis, not later than the twentieth day of the month following the month in which the fee is paid, and such remittance shall include a report of the license numbers of the installers and retailers who purchase permits and the corresponding permit numbers sold. (c) All fees remitted to the commissioner, plus any funds received by the state from the federal department of housing and urban development for manufactured housing, shall be allocated to a fund within the general fund called the manufactured housing fund and shall, subject to appropriation, be utilized exclusively to fund the commissioner's regulatory activities pertaining to manufactured homes. Funds deposited in the manufactured housing fund shall not revert to the general fund at the end of the fiscal year but shall remain available for appropriation for the purposes provided in this subsection (c). (d) In case of rejection of any part of the home installation, a separate forty-five dollar ($45.00) fee shall be charged to the installer.
(e) The commissioner shall ensure that at least five percent (5%) of manufactured homes installed in the state of Tennessee each year are inspected; provided, however, that there shall be at least one (1) inspection of a home installed by each installer each year. Inspection shall occur within twenty (20) business days after the commissioner's receipt of the installer's report. Each installer shall submit a report to the commissioner on at least a weekly basis describing the homes installed by the installer that week. Such report shall include, at a minimum, the name and address of the retailer and the location of each home installed. (f) Upon payment of the inspection fee, the county clerk shall provide the purchaser a permit decal. The commissioner shall provide the permit decals to the county clerk. Installers and retailers may purchase decals from the county clerk; provided, however, that the commissioner shall account for all permits. (g) A permit decal shall be placed on each new and used home that is installed after January 1, 2004. The decal shall be affixed inside the electrical panel box cover. The installer shall write the address where the home is located on the permit. The state or local electrical inspector shall not authorize electricity to be turned on at the home if no installation decal is on the home when the electrical installation is done. (h) If a permit decal is lost or destroyed, the applicant for a replacement decal shall pay to the county clerk a fee of forty-five dollars ($45.00), from which the county clerk shall retain eight dollars ($8.00) and remit thirty-seven dollars ($37.00) to the commissioner. The applicant for the replacement permit decal shall provide to the county clerk an affidavit stating that the decal was lost or destroyed. The county clerk shall submit a copy of the affidavit for any replacement permit decal issued with the monthly report to the commissioner. HISTORY: Acts 1976, ch. 626, 6; 1981, ch. 301, 15; T.C.A., 53-6206, 68-45-106, 68-36-406; Acts 2002, ch. 793, 15; 2003, ch. 80, 4. 68-126-407. [Repealed.] 68-126-408. Alteration of installations. It is unlawful for any person to alter any anchoring installation that has been inspected and approved without the written consent of the state fire marshal or the state fire marshal's authorized agent. HISTORY: Acts 1976, ch. 626, 8; T.C.A., 53-6208, 68-45-108, 68-36-408.
68-126-409. Application. This part does not apply to any manufactured home that has not been delivered for occupancy. HISTORY: Acts 1976, ch. 626, 9; 1981, ch. 301, 9; T.C.A., 53-6209, 68-45-109, 68-36-409. 68-126-410. Violations -- Penalties -- Injunctions. (a) For purposes of this section, "imminent safety hazard" means a hazard creating an imminent and unreasonable risk of death or severe personal injury. (b) Any person who violates any provision of this part, or any rule or regulation promulgated under this part, shall be subject to the following penalties: (1) If the violation does not create an imminent safety hazard, the following shall apply: (A) The commissioner shall notify the installer, in writing, of the violation or violations and direct the installer to correct the violation or violations within thirty (30) days of the date of the letter. Such notification shall also be sent to the retailer. Upon appropriate written request, the commissioner may grant an extension of time to correct the violation or violations. In determining whether such a violation has occurred, the inspector shall take into account the manufacturer's installation instructions. The installer shall respond to the commissioner, in writing, and confirm that corrections have been made and outline the steps taken to correct the violation or violations. The commissioner may reinspect the home or verify with the homeowner that corrections were made; (B) If after notification of the violation or violations and after thirty (30) days have passed, the installer has not corrected the violations, then the commissioner may, after providing notice and an opportunity for a hearing pursuant to the Uniform Administrative Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, revoke or suspend the license of the installer. In addition to or in lieu of any other lawful discipline, the commissioner may assess a civil penalty in accordance with the following schedule: (i) For a first offense within a one-year period, a civil penalty of one hundred dollars ($100); (ii) For a second offense not involving the same violation within a one-year period, a civil penalty in an amount of one hundred dollars ($100) to five hundred dollars ($500); (iii) For a third or subsequent offense not involving the same violation within a twoyear period, a civil penalty in an amount of five hundred dollars ($500) to two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500); (iv) For a second or subsequent offense involving the same violation within a twoyear period, a civil penalty of two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500); and
(v) In addition to or in lieu of imposing other lawful discipline, the commissioner may require an installer to take additional education or retake the examination or both; and (C) In any finding of violation or violations, the inspector shall cite on the inspection report the section from the manufacturer's installation instructions, or other applicable installation standards, pertaining to the violation or violations. If the responsibility for the violation or violations is not clear and the retailer presents no documentation to the contrary, the retailer shall be held responsible for the entire installation; (2) If the violation creates an imminent safety hazard, the following shall apply: (A) The commissioner shall notify the installer immediately, in writing, of the violation or violations and direct the installer to correct the violation or violations immediately. Such notification shall also be sent to the retailer. In determining whether such a violation has occurred, the inspector shall take into account the manufacturer's installation instructions. The installer shall respond to the commissioner, in writing, within twenty-four (24) hours of receiving notification of the violation or violations and provide a plan of corrective action outlining the steps that will be taken to correct the violation or violations. The commissioner may reinspect the home or verify with the homeowner that corrections were made; (B) If after notification of the violation or violations and after twenty-four (24) hours have passed, the installer has not submitted an acceptable plan of corrective action, then the commissioner may, after providing notice and an opportunity for a hearing pursuant to the Uniform Administrative Act, revoke or suspend the license of the installer. In addition to or in lieu of any other lawful discipline, the commissioner may assess a civil penalty in accordance with the schedule set forth in subdivision (b)(1)(b); (C) In addition to or in lieu of imposing other lawful discipline, the commissioner may require an installer to take additional education or retake the examination or both; and (D) In any finding of a violation or violations, the inspector shall cite on the inspection report the section from the manufacturer's installation instructions, or other applicable installation standards, pertaining to the violation or violations. If the responsibility for the violation or violations is not clear and the installer presents no documentation to the contrary, the retailer shall be held responsible for the entire installation. (c) Any person who violates any provision of this part, or of any rule or regulation promulgated pursuant to this part, commits a Class C misdemeanor. (d) The commissioner may also seek injunctive relief against any violation of this part, or of any rule or regulation promulgated pursuant to this part, in accordance with the procedure established in 68-135-111. HISTORY: Acts 1976, ch. 626, 10; T.C.A., 53-6210, 68-45-110; Acts 1989, ch. 591, 113; T.C.A., 68-36-410; Acts 2002, ch. 793, 17.
68-126-411. Disposition of revenue. All revenue resulting from the administration of this part shall be placed to the credit of the manufactured housing fund, and shall be used accordingly. HISTORY: Acts 1976, ch. 626, 11; T.C.A., 53-6211, 68-45-111, 68-36-411; Acts 2002, ch. 793, 18. 68-126-412. Preemption -- Supersession. It is the intention of the general assembly that this part, and the regulations issued pursuant thereto, preempt any local ordinance or regulation of the installation of manufactured homes. All city, county and consolidated government resolutions, ordinances, regulations and code requirements on installation of manufactured homes are superseded by this chapter, and regulations issued thereto. HISTORY: Acts 1991, ch. 371, 1; T.C.A., 68-36-412; Acts 2002, ch. 793, 19.