Homes built since July 13, 1994 are a different product from the older mobile homes people picture after a storm. That date is when HUD’s stronger wind standard took effect, and the record since then is strong.
The evidence
After the four hurricanes of 2004 (Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne), Florida’s FLHSMV surveyed 152 parks and 29,275 homes. About 12% were destroyed or not repairable, but of roughly 4,056 homes built after 1994, the state reported that none had significant damage. A separate HUD study of Hurricane Charley found post-1994 homes performed significantly better than older ones.
Built for your wind zone
Florida has two HUD wind zones. Zone III (110 mph design) covers 14 coastal counties, including Pinellas, Manatee and Sarasota. Zone II (100 mph design) covers the rest, including Pasco, Hernando, Hillsborough, Citrus and Levy. A home must be built for the zone where it is placed.
Anchored to Florida’s rules
Florida’s installation standards (Rule 15C-1, F.A.C.) require, in general terms:
- Diagonal frame ties in every wind zone, spaced no more than 5′4″ apart.
- Longitudinal ties at each end of each section, at least four.
- Vertical ties as well as frame ties on post-1994 homes.
- Anchors rated for a 4,000 lb working load on post-1994 homes, and only state-approved straps, clamps and anchors.
- A state-licensed installer, a state installation decal and a county inspection.
See photos of our crews’ piers and tie-downs.
Keep it that way
Check straps and anchors yearly for looseness or rust, keep piers in contact with the frame, and replace damaged parts. FLHSMV recommends having a licensed installer check your tie-downs.
Still evacuate when told
A well-built home is not a shelter. Florida’s Division of Emergency Management tells mobile and manufactured home residents to follow all evacuation orders, whatever their evacuation zone.
Sources: HUD 1994 wind rule · 24 CFR 3280.305 · FLHSMV 2004 hurricane report · HUD Hurricane Charley study · FLHSMV safety · FDEM Know Your Zone. Checked October 2026. This is general information, not insurance, legal or financial advice.