You'll also have to make all necessary plans for delivery and installation. In most cases, your retailer can offer valuable guidance.
Site Preparation If you decide to have your home installed on your own land, you may be responsible for site preparation.
Even if this is so, it's still a good idea to have your installer or retailer inspect the site.
Here's a site preparation checklist:
* A large delivery truck must be able to access the site. * The site must be as level as possible. * The area where you plan to place your home must be clear of rocks, trees and other debris. * The soil around the site must be graded and sloped away from the home for runoff. * Fill soil should be compacted to prevent any sinking or shifting of the foundation. You may be able to do some of the site preparation yourself, but most tasks like grading and compacting soil will require professional help. Otherwise you could cause damage to your home that won't be covered by your warranty.
Delivery
Most of the time, your home will be moved from the factory to the retail sales center where it will be inspected. Any recorded damage incurred on the home during transit will be repaired before it is delivered to your site.
If damage does occur after the home has left your dealer, the transport company is usually held responsible. So, as you would with a rental car, thoroughly inspect your home for damage before it leaves the sales center and again when it arrives at your site. In the case that you do find damage, take photos and report it immediately.
Before you tie up your arrangements to purchase and transport a home, confirm that you have a written warranty from the transporter. Otherwise, if damage occurs during delivery, you might have difficulty getting no-cost repairs done.
Installation Manufacturers are required to provide instructions for proper home installation. An appropriate contractor to do this work is often included in your contract price. You should obtain a written description of the installation services from your retailer.
Be sure to review your contract before you sign. If installation isn't included, you will probably have to hire a professional yourself. Ask for recommendations from your retailer. When interviewing a contractor, be sure to get references.
Whether a contractor or your retailer installs your home, abide by these guidelines listed below. They will likely help you to understand what you're paying for and how to confirm that the work has been done properly. Also, you'll better understand your warranty protection.
-- Obtain written proof of the installer's aptitude, this might even be required by state law.
