December 2, 2024, Press Release from the Ohio Department of Commerce: COLUMBUS, Ohio – As winter approaches, the Ohio Department of Commerce advises residents of manufactured homes and park operators to take proactive steps to prepare for the inevitable cold snap. Manufactured homes are more susceptible to the effects of freezing temperatures, so proper winterization is necessary to safeguard them from potential damage and enhance energy efficiency, leading to lower heating bills. Commerce’s Manufactured Homes Program has jurisdiction over the installation of manufactured homes; the licensing and regulation of manufactured home park operators, installers, dealers, brokers, and salespersons; and the certification and regulation of manufactured home inspectors and inspection agencies. The Program is administered by the Division of Industrial Compliance (DIC) and Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing (REPL).

Now that the mercury is dropping fast, people are turning up the heat to stay warm. But some may have a problem paying for that warmth. The West Ohio Community Action Partnership along with the Ohio Services Agency is now taking applications for their Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program. It helps income-eligible people pay their heating bills and assist with fuel tank placement, testing, and furnace repair.