Warning Signs for Trailer Renters

Some people who rent like to live in single family units sometimes look for trailers for a variety of reasons. Mobile homes can be good residences to rent if you know what to look for. There are warning signs for trailer renters which you should watch for when looking at potential residences.

Exterior Signs

A warning sign for trailer renters is the outward appearance of the trailer. If there are signs of separated siding or framework you could have both draft and bug problems. If the trailer isn't level you can have problems with opening doors and windows, condensation and moisture buildup around the frames. If the trailer has skirting, if it is split or missing sections you could have small animals or rodents making nests underneath and causing flooring problems. If you have no skirting and can see under the trailer you also have serious draft problems causing cold floors, frozen pipes, and moisture buildup which causes floors to rot. If the trailer has a flat roof, ask to inspect the roof. Look for soft roofs, gaps in the seals or other damage. Damaged roofs can cause interior ceiling leaks and electrical shorts because water will travel to low spots along any opening.

Interior Signs

Warning signs for trailer renters also can be found on the inside of the trailer as well. Look for wet spots on the ceiling and walls of the mobile home. If you see streaks under the windows or lines across the ceiling the trailer has water between the interior and exterior surfaces. Look for black or brown splotches or stains on the walls which signify mold. Black or brown pellets in drawers or corners signify rodents which can enter through the flooring and kitchen cabinets. Look for rust spots around water pipes which signify frozen pipes inside the house; if this is seen, there is little or no insulation around the exterior pipes and you could lose water during colder months.

Non-physical signs

Non-physical warning signs for trailer renters can include odd smells, mustiness, or a feeling of dampness. Older mobile homes have a history of holding in heat and condensation so the damp musty smell will be apparent if the trailer hasn't been aired out.

Property Issues

Look around the trailer at the property as well. Other warning signs for trailer renters include areas of high grass, even if not near the trailer; this can be hiding places for fleas, ticks or rodents. Look for wind issues. Many mobile homes in older trailer parks are close together so wind gusts can develop which will impact the heating of the house. Watch for trailers situated in flood plains; these do not hold up well in flood situations. Look for trees close by, especially with overhanging limbs. Trees can cause extensive damage if a limb breaks from a strong storm. If the trailer uses propane, check the position of where the tank would be. The tank should be level and should not lean away from the trailer to avoid the danger of gas lines being pulled lose which can be potentially explosive.