Since 1989, NYSDRA has contracted with the NYS Division of Housing and Community Renewal's (DHCR) Manufactured Homes Unit to provide mediation in appropriate disputes between park owners and tenants.
Many manufactured home residents and park owners experience classic landlord/tenant problems and the unique problem that many residents own their own home but not the land upon which it is situated. Mediation is used successfully in conflicts over living conditions, provision of services and other common issues arising between tenants and owners in manufactured home parks in New York 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.
Filing a Complaint
Manufactured Home Tenants may initiate a complaint by contacting DHCR.
Processing a Complaint
All complaints are evaluated by DHCR to determine the appropriate way to handle them. Complaints may be acted upon directly or referred to mediation.
Mediation Offers:
- A neutral setting to resolve disputes
- Prompt service
- No cost for services to tenant or park operator
- Convenient locations throughout New York State
- Confidentiality
The requirements of the law indicate that a mediation process shall be made available and is voluntary; 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.
What takes place at mediation?
An impartial mediator will meet with the tenant(s) and park owner 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?
Any complaint not resolved through mediation is directly handled by DHCR. If settlement cannot be reached, DHCR may apply to court for appropriate relief. The court may impose penalties and/or order direct restitution.
The Manufactured Housing Mediation Program is designed to help. Please contact your local Community Dispute Resolution Center (CDRCs) or NYSDRA for more information. You may also call the toll-free DHCR Toll Free Hotline number (1-800-432-4210).
Additional Resources:
New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal - The Division's website lists various resources, publications and contacts.
Find a local CDRC - Community Dispute Resolution Center
Related Laws:
Section 233, Real Property Law