ModelTown Verified How it works

Two classifications

What we check for ModelTown Verified

A builder must pass all five checks. When a state office, certification body or insurance agent issued something, we confirm it with them. A copy the builder sends us is not enough on its own.

• The business is real and active. We look it up in the state business registry.
• Each listed model is certified. For example CSA A277, a state modular program, the HUD label, or RVIA for park models and tiny homes on wheels. We check the certifier's own records.
• The builder has liability insurance. It must cover injury or damage caused by a home after it is delivered. We confirm the policy with the insurance agent.
• The builder has a written warranty. We read it so you can see what it covers.
• A contractor license, if the builder installs homes on site. We check the state license lookup.

Builders who sell plans also need insurance for design mistakes (professional liability).

A builder whose homes have no recognized certification can be Listed, but not Verified.

Keeping it current

We check every Verified builder again each year, and sooner when a certificate or policy ends. Each item shows the date we last confirmed it. If something lapses, we remove the badge until it is fixed.

What we don't check

We don't visit factories, inspect homes, or review a builder's finances.

What the labels on a home page mean

Each document on a model page has its own label. The label tells you how much we know about that one item. It is separate from the ModelTown Verified badge, which is about the builder.

Confirmed by ModelTown: we checked it with the group that issued it, such as a certification body, state office or insurance agent. The date shows when.

Document reviewed: we read the document. We did not check it with the group that issued it. The date shows when.

Per the builder: the builder says so, but we have not seen proof.

Not provided: the builder has not shared this yet. The page shows a question you can ask them.

What our standards pages do

Our Buyer Guide explains common construction standards and the questions to ask before you buy. Each page links to official sources and shows the date we last reviewed it.

What this does not establish

• Approval to place or live in a home on your lot
• An inspection of, or warranty for, any specific home
• An endorsement of any certification program
• Legal advice

See something wrong?

Tell us and we'll review it. Use our contact form.