Before your home is installed, make sure the site has been properly prepared. Careful attention to the following details will help ensure satisfaction with your home for years to come. Your retailer can provide you with valuable guidance and assistance.

Site Preparation
If you’re having the home installed on your own land, you may be responsible for site preparation. But it’s also a good idea to have your retailer or installer inspect the site.

Here’s a site preparation checklist:
• The delivery truck must be able to reach the site.
• The site must be as level as possible.
• The area where the home will sit must be clear of trees, rocks, and other debris.
• The soil must be graded and sloped away from the home for water runoff.
• Fill soil must be compacted to prevent the foundation from sinking or shifting.

While you may be able to do some of the site preparation, most tasks, such as grading and compacting soil, require professional expertise. Otherwise,you could do damage to your home that’s not covered by the warranty.
 
Delivery
In most instances, your home will be transported from the factory to the retail sales center. There, it will be inspected by your retailer. Any damage done to the home in transit will be repaired before it is delivered to your homesite.

If damage occurs on the way from the retailer to your site, the transporter is usually held responsible. Therefore, make sure you check for damage before the home leaves the sales center and again when your home arrives at the site. If you find any damage, report it to the transporter immediately.

Before you finalize arrangements to buy and transport a home, make sure you have a written warranty from the transporter. Otherwise, if damage occurs during delivery, you could have a difficult time getting no-cost repairs.

Installation
Manufacturers must provide instructions for proper home installation. Usually, the retailer will install your home or use a contractor. Typically, the price of your home includes installation. You should get a written explanation of the installation services from your retailer. Be sure to read your contract before you sign. If installation isn’t included, you may have to hire a professional. Ask your retailer for recommendations.

Whether the retailer or a contractor installs your home, follow these guidelines listed below. They will help you understand what you’re paying for and how to check that the work has been done properly. You’ll also better understand your warranty protections.
• Get written proof of the installer’s qualifications. This may be required by state law.
• Ask if there is a written warranty for installation. If not, have the contractor put in writing any promises or claims regarding
the installation.
• Ask the contractor to explain the installation process; have it written into the agreement.