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 Birmingham, Alabama a city where the pulse of American history beats strongly amidst the rolling Appalachian foothills. Often referred to as the “Magic City” due to its rapid growth during America’s industrial age, Birmingham, Alabama, invites you on a journey through time, culture, and the indomitable spirit of a community that has risen, phoenix-like, from the ashes of its tumultuous past.
As you wander through the streets of Birmingham, the echoes of its industrial heritage resonate around you. The city, once a booming center for iron and steel production, pays homage to this legacy at the Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark. Here, massive blast furnaces and towering smokestacks stand as silent sentinels of an era that forged the city’s identity.
Yet, Birmingham’s story is deeply intertwined with the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, a narrative of struggle and triumph that continues to shape its character. The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute serves as a powerful testament to this past, offering an immersive journey through the city’s role in the fight for equality. Nearby, the hauntingly beautiful 16th Street Baptist Church and Kelly Ingram Park stand as sacred grounds, bearing witness to the resilience and courage of those who fought for justice. Beyond its historical significance, Birmingham is a city that thrives with cultural vibrancy and artistic flair. The Birmingham Museum of Art, home to a diverse collection spanning continents and centuries, reflects the city’s appreciation for the arts. The Alabama Ballet, Alabama Symphony Orchestra, and numerous local theaters contribute to a rich performing arts scene, ensuring the city’s rhythm is one of creativity and expression.
Nature’s touch graces Birmingham as well, with lush parks and green spaces offering a verdant escape from the urban sprawl. The Birmingham Botanical Gardens, a horticultural haven, invites you to wander through its themed gardens and bask in the serenity of its floral displays. Red Mountain Park, with its scenic overlooks and walking trails, offers panoramic views and a connection to the natural beauty of Alabama.
Culinary adventurers will find Birmingham a haven of Southern cuisine, infused with both tradition and innovation. From soul food to fine dining, the city’s food scene is a reflection of its diverse community and rich cultural heritage. Local breweries and coffee shops dot the landscape, offering spaces to gather, sip, and savor.
In Birmingham, the community’s heartbeat is strong and resilient. The city’s universities and medical centers are at the forefront of education and research, driving Birmingham forward as a hub of knowledge and innovation. The spirit of the city is mirrored in its people – warm, welcoming, and proud of their rich heritage and hopeful future.
Step into Birmingham and experience a city that melds the past with the present, where history’s lessons pave the way for a future filled with promise and potential. In Birmingham, every brick and beam, every story and song, is a part of the tapestry that makes this city not just a place to visit, but a place to remember and cherish.
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 of Birmingham, AL, particularly those in mobile/manufactured homes and RVs, should be proactive in preparing for the increasing risks of extreme heat, heavy precipitation, and potential drought conditions. Staying informed, being prepared for emergencies, and adapting to the changing climate are key to ensuring safety and resilience in the face of these weather challenges.
1) Be cautious of wildlife when camping in Alabama.
2) Store food securely to avoid attracting animals.
3) Know what to do if you encounter wild animals near your RV.
1) Install skirting to protect your home's underside.
2) Understand how skirting impacts your insurance.
3) Regularly inspect and maintain your skirting.
1) Know the extent of your liability coverage in case of accidents.
2) Consider additional liability insurance for peace of mind.
3) Familiarize yourself with situations where you might be liable.
1) Learn about special policies for older mobile homes.
2) Regular maintenance can reduce insurance costs.
3) Update safety features to comply with current standards.
1) Protect your RV from Alabama's winter conditions.
2) Follow a checklist to winterize your RV properly.
3) Don't forget to adjust your insurance for off-season storage.
1) Secure your home with the right anchoring system.
2) Understand local codes for storm anchoring.
3) Regularly inspect and maintain your anchoring system.
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.
