Q: If I live in a mobile home community in a home that I own on a leased lot, can the management force me to put up blinds?
I have lived here for almost 4 years in this manufactured home that the management has no claim of ownership to. They own the land it is on and we have a signed lease. They have recently amended their rules to require every window to have white blinds and will be charging me $45 per window in violation. This rule was not in place when I signed the lease and they have only given me 2 weeks of notice. Do I have to comply?
A:
In your situation, the key factor to consider is the terms of your lease agreement and any provisions it may have regarding changes to community rules or regulations. If your lease includes a clause that allows management to amend the rules of the community and imposes new requirements on residents, then you might be obligated to comply with these changes, including the installation of white blinds. However, the specifics of the lease and local laws will ultimately dictate your rights and obligations.
It's also important to consider the manner in which these new rules have been communicated and implemented. Two weeks' notice for such a significant change may not be reasonable, and there could be local regulations that require a longer notice period or that protect residents from arbitrary rule changes during the term of their lease. Engaging in a dialogue with the management to express your concerns and seeking a compromise may also be a constructive approach.
Lastly, seeking advice from a legal professional experienced in tenant and property law in your area could provide clarity on your situation and help you understand your options. They can offer guidance on how to address this issue with your community's management or possibly contest the new rule if it infringes upon your rights under the lease or violates local housing laws.
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