Manufactured Housing Division
Clarification of Electrical Testing
The following is a clarification to the Electrical Testing issue identified in a recent announcement that was sent out.
Pursuant to Section 80.25(j)(5) of the Administrative Rules, when installing a manufactured home, the completion of a continuity test, a polarity test, and an operational test is required. This rule was adopted and has been in place since 1998. This applies to both new and used homes.
ADDITIONALLY, for a NEW manufactured home, you will also need to check the Manufacturer’s Installation Manual to determine if the Manufacturer requires additional testing along with the continuity test, the polarity test, and an operational test, as required by 24 CFR § 3285.702(f)1 .
The electrical testing does not have to be completed by a licensed electrician, but must be completed once the electricity is activated or by using a generator. The home cannot be occupied until all installation requirements have been met and the installation is complete.
1The polarity, continuity and operational tests are specified in Part 3280.810(b) entitled Electrical Testing under the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards.
Subpart I -- Electrical Systems
Sec. 3280.810(b) Electrical testing.
(b) Each manufactured home shall be subject to:
(1) A continuity test to assure that metallic parts are properly bonded;
(2) Operational test to demonstrate that all equipment, except water heaters, electric furnaces, dishwashers, clothes washers/dryers, and portable appliances, is connected and in working order; and
(3) Polarity checks to determine that connections have been properly made. Visual verification shall be an acceptable check.