Disclaimer: Data Accuracy and Sources
The data in the Covertree Resources section is from publicly available sources last updated in December 2022. We provide source links for verification. However, we can’t guarantee accuracy. Rely on this data at your own discretion. For specific advice, consult professionals.
Welcome to Decatur, Alabama- a city where the gentle lull of the Gulf waters intermingles with the vibrant pulse of history, culture, and the warmth of Southern hospitality. Nestled along the shimmering Mobile Bay, this historic port city beckons with its rich tapestry of stories, traditions, and natural beauty, inviting you to discover its unique charm.
As you meander through the streets of Mobile, let the rhythm of this historic Southern belle guide you. Founded in the early 18th century, Mobile stands as a testament to cultural fusion, its narrative woven with threads from French, Spanish, British, African, and Creole influences. This rich heritage comes to life in the city’s architecture, from the antebellum homes of the Oakleigh Historic District to the ornate facades of the Dauphin Street Historic District.
Mobile’s claim to Mardi Gras fame is a colorful thread in the city’s cultural fabric. Celebrated as the birthplace of America’s original Mardi Gras, Mobile bursts into a kaleidoscope of colors and festivities each year, rivaling its more famous counterpart in New Orleans. The vibrant parades, intricate masks, and lively music fill the streets with an energy that is both exhilarating and deeply rooted in local tradition.
Beyond its historic and cultural splendors, Mobile is embraced by the bounty of nature. The Mobile-Tensaw Delta, a mesmerizing labyrinth of rivers, bayous, and wetlands, offers a sanctuary for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. Explore the Five Rivers Delta Resource Center, where the confluence of the Mobile, Spanish, Tensaw, Apalachee, and Blakeley rivers creates a rich ecosystem teeming with life.
The city’s culinary scene mirrors its diverse heritage. In Mobile, your palate can embark on a journey through a variety of flavors, from fresh Gulf seafood to hearty Southern comfort food. The city’s restaurants, ranging from high-end eateries to charming local cafes, serve up dishes that are as rich in history as they are in taste.
But Mobile’s true essence lies in its community spirit. The city’s calendar is replete with festivals, art shows, and live performances, each event a celebration of the city’s communal ties and artistic flair. The SouthSounds Music and Arts Festival, for instance, showcases the best of Southern music, art, and food, reflecting the creative pulse of the region.
In the heart of Mobile, educational institutions like the University of South Alabama foster a spirit of learning and innovation, contributing to the city’s dynamic atmosphere. Meanwhile, the USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park stands as a tribute to the nation’s military history, offering a glimpse into the valor and sacrifices of those who served.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting melody of Mobile, where every street corner hums with stories, every wave whispers tales of yore, and every breeze carries the warmth of a city that welcomes all with open arms. In Mobile, Alabama, experience a blend of historical grandeur, cultural richness, and the unmistakable charm of Southern living. Welcome to this coastal jewel, where the past and present dance in a timeless embrace under the Southern sky.
Manufactured homes account for about 16% of Alabama’s housing market, almost double the national average.
Michigan law defines an “eligible person” for mobile home insurance as someone who owns or lives in a mobile home. Mobile home insurance policies are similar to conventional homeowners’ policies but include specific provisions for mobile homes.
Mobile home insurance in Michigan typically provides coverage for risks specific to the state, such as damage from severe weather events like floods, windstorms, and tornadoes.
Insurance quotes are adjustable to fit different budgets, ensuring affordability for homeowners.
Homeowners insurance isn’t required by Alabama state law, but your mortgage lender will likely require you to have it.
Insurance for manufactured homes in Alabama is essential and similar to traditional site-built homes, encompassing structure, liability, and personal property coverage. Despite common misconceptions, manufactured homes don’t inherently carry additional insurance risks.
However, insurance rates can vary significantly by state, often influenced by local weather patterns and natural disaster risks. In Alabama, homeowners insurance costs are above the national average, with state-specific regulations impacting policies. The Alabama Manufactured Housing Association (AMHA) has been advocating for the industry since 1968, ensuring quality and affordable housing options are available, underscoring the importance of proper insurance for homeownership.
Here are 10 unique considerations for owners of manufactured, mobile, modular, or RV homes in Alabama:
Weather and Environmental Risks:
Residents in mobile/manufactured homes and RVs in Decatur, AL, should be proactive in preparing for these weather hazards. This includes ensuring homes are securely anchored, having emergency plans and kits, staying informed about weather risks, and having appropriate insurance coverage. Regular maintenance and inspection of homes and vehicles are also crucial for safety.
Nationally: Crime rate is higher than average for communities of similar population size.
1) Embrace the RV lifestyle with tips tailored for Alabama.
2) Advice on adapting to different seasons and local attractions.
3) Balancing RV living with practical insurance considerations.
1) Understanding insurance needs for renting out your mobile home.
2) Liability and property coverage essentials for landlords.
3) How to ensure your tenants are adequately covered.
1) Safety practices for cooking inside your RV.
2) Preventing fires and managing cooking appliances.
3) How safe cooking habits can positively influence your insurance.
1) Explore lesser-known RV destinations in Alabama.
2) Preparing for off-grid adventures and unique challenges.
3) Insurance considerations for remote or unconventional locations.
1) Navigating the claims process step by step.
2) Tips for a smooth and successful insurance claim.
3) Documentation and preparation tips for claim filing.
1) Best practices for storing your RV during off-seasons.
2) Protecting your RV from weather-related damages while stored.
3) Adjusting your insurance coverage for periods of non-use.
Mobile and Manufactured Home Insurance Statistics in Alabama:
Based on the 2017 American Community Survey by the U.S. Census Bureau, Alabama has 305,749 mobile homes, making up 13.5% of the state’s total housing. Walker County has the highest percentage of mobile homes at 31.5%.
The presence of mobile homes varies by county, with the lowest being Jefferson County at 2.7% and others like Cullman County and St. Clair County had significantly higher percentages at 27.4% and 28.0% respectively. These figures highlight the importance of mobile homes in Alabama’s housing landscape.
In Alabama, the ten counties with the highest percentage of mobile homes, as per the 2017 American Community Survey, are as follows:
You’ve got 30 days to register it—don’t miss this, or you might get hit with a $10 penalty and a $15 citation fee. Ouch! And if you end up in court without your manufactured home decal, fines could soar up to $500 or even land you a short stay in the county jail.
Here’s the deal on where to register:
Register with the Tax Assessor’s Office if your name’s on both the home and the land titles. Bought them as a package? You’re in luck—no sales tax! Living there yourself? Claim your homestead. Have family staying over? It’s a bit more in taxes, but still a sweet deal. Any confusion? Just call the Tax Assessor at 256-532-3350 for a chat.
Head over to the License Department if you own the home but not the land, or if you’re renting it out. Remember, you’ve got to cover the sales tax and title fee if it’s a 1990 model or newer from out-of-state. Mark your calendar! Registration ends on September 30 each year, and renewal time is from October 1 to November 30.
Don’t forget the Bill of Sale. Alabama dealers take care of sales tax, but out-of-state purchases need sales tax paid at the License Department. And don’t try the old “$1 Bill of Sale” trick—it won’t fly here!
If your manufactured home is a 1992 model or newer, you need a title. Alabama dealers will sort this out for you, but if you’re buying from an individual, you’ll need to sign off on the title with the License Department.
Before you hit the road, grab a move permit for $10. It’s good for 14 days per module, and make sure your taxes or registration fees are all clear. Without it, you’re looking at a class C misdemeanor and at least a $50 fine.
Check with local inspection departments for any setup fees in the area where you’re laying down roots.
You can make it officially part of your property. Just match up the names on the home and land titles, and send in an application with all the right paperwork to the Department of Revenue. If you ever decide to move your home, you’ll need to get a new title. And if your home is a vintage model over 20 years old, no title needed! Just so you know, this doesn’t necessarily mean your home is considered real estate in all legal situations, but it does for tax purposes.
