There are many things unknown about tiny homes. One of the most asked questions about tiny houses is whether one needs a permit or title for a tiny house on wheels. You might NOT need a permit for a tiny house on wheels (THOW). A permit isn’t involved when you buy or build the THOW, but there are a few things that you might require, and regulations are still applicable, including certifications and titles. Buying a THOW can be daunting, so you must connect with several builders and compare the models before making an informed decision. TinyHouseMe is the online directory connecting you with multiple home builders across US and Canada. We showcase some of the best models of tiny houses on wheels to make the purchase easier and simplify your search. This article discusses a few points you need to know before owning a house on wheels.
What do you need to own the THOW legally?
A home on wheels is built by mounting and building the structure on a trailer. It’s a must for all trailers to have titles, and therefore when you own a tiny house on wheels, it needs to have a title. However, the title applies only to the trailer and not the entire structure. Therefore, a title for the THOW is necessary, but you also need a certification for the tiny house. RVIA and NOAH are the only two certifications recognized in America currently. If you have a tiny house on wheels, then getting certifications from either of these is necessary, as it means the structure meets the minimum building standards.
These certifications are not necessary when building a tiny home, but when you decide to stay in RV parks or tiny house parking locations, these certifications are essential.
For a tiny house on wheels, you might not need a permit, but a title and certification are required, and to legally own the THOW, a title is a must.
What do you need to build a THOW legally?
Social media can portray that building a THOW is a weekend hobby and a fun thing. This is untrue. How can you build a home without plumbing, insulation, and electrical systems? When you plan to own a home on wheels, you need a title, but you must follow building codes when you plan to live full-time. However, the building codes might vary depending on state and county. Many places are tiny home friendly, while others are still warming up to the idea of miniature homes. In such a situation, a trusted tiny home builder can help. Sign up at TinyHouseMe to connect with a local builder. We instantly set up an appointment with your matched builder to get things moving faster.
If THOW didn’t come with a title – how can you get one?
A title for THOW is used for showing ownership and registering the structure. If you plan to move house on public roads and are concerned about the ownership of the THOW, then a title is important. The title is vital even if you plan to sell the tiny house on wheels.
If you have bought a used THOW, then there are two ways you can get a title. The first and best choice is to ask the previous owner to procure a duplicate title. The second option is to send an application for a bonded title.
The first choice is ideal, and it’s fairly easy to get a duplicate title from most states. The owner must mail proper paperwork and provide a check for the duplicate title fee to the state DMV. It takes about a week, and the duplicate title will get mailed to the specified address.
Here are some of the basics for getting a title for the tiny house trailer: (it can vary depending on state and county, but it’s pretty much standard).
- Connect with the local DMV
- Documentation
- Wait for approval
- Get a surety bond
- Apply for a bonded title
However, if the previous owner does not get you the title, you can apply for a bonded title.
A bonded title means the previous owner never provided you with a title, and there is no proof of ownership. The DMV will now check the theft records, and you must get a surety bond. This also means that if the original owner comes with the title and claims the trailer, the surety bond company will provide them with a fair price, and you will be accountable for paying back the bond company, as per Surety Solutions. This can also mean that you are living in someone’s stolen THOW.
Purchasing a tiny house on wheels without a title is a big NO! Since mobility homes have a higher chance of getting stolen, buying a THOW from just anyone is a bad decision. That’s why you should only opt for trusted tiny home builders to buy a THOW. At TinyHouseMe, we connect you with established tiny home builders offering off-the-shelf and customized tiny homes, with proper blueprints, and floor plans. The homes are competitively priced, and many also have a warranty certificate.
If you are looking for help to plan your tiny home project, sign up at TinyHouseMe. Our experts will help you find the right builder and offer expert assistance to finance the project.
