Set-up period liability

[J & J]

Hello,
My wife and I are in the process of buying our first MH from a Horton dealer in NC.The home will be on our land about 1 month before we arrive from out of state.We were concerned about vandalism and/or injury during that time.It's in a very rural area. Our dealer (who has been very helpful and patient) said not to worry, it's covered by his insurance 'til he gets final inspection, hands us the keys, and we give him the last 10% payment- or 60 days passes, whichever comes first.Is this SOP in the industry? Do most people get coverage after they move-in?Also, just wanted to say that John Grissims' books are a well researched and invaluable resource.
Thank you for your help,
J & J

[David Oxhandler]

Insurance procedures differ from state to state. Unless the dealer is willing to give you a copy of his insurance with a written guarantee that his insurance will cover any damage to the home or associated liability you should put insurance on the home the day it hits your property.

It is less likely that you would have any problems in a rural area but that is what insurance is for. Protect your investment and have it insured. YOu will buy insurance for the home anyway a few extra weeks in advance wont cost you very much.

Yes Grissim's Guides are indispensable to anyone shopping for a manufactured home. The cost of the books is a ridiculously low tuition to pay, for the best education in the art and science of buying a manufactured home, available anyplace

[John Grissim]

Dear J and J,

Thanks for the kind words about my consumer guides. Your dealer's assurances, and his insurance terms, are quite reasonable. What I recommend is those assurances be put in writing and included as an addendum to the purchase agreement. The addendum should clearly state that the dealer assumes all responsibility for damage or loss to the home during the set-up period.
Congratulations on insisting you withhold the last 10% of the purchase price until you are satisfied the installation is complete to your satisfaction.

With best wishes,

John Grissim

[J & J]

David and John, thank you so much for your helpful advice. We spoke with our dealer, he's happy to give us a written addenum. Also, our agent called and getting our own coverage for that month, as a backup, will only cost approx. $65. To us, a small price to pay for peace of mind....
Again, many thanks,
J & J