Manufactured housing survey data quality

The Census 2024 Manufactured Housing Survey public-use file contains 5,048 records, including 4,859 sampled manufactured homes and 189 homes shipped to FEMA-only dealers. The file is a research sample, not a complete local operating database.

Preserve sample context

When an assistant downloads a table or public-use file, the record should include the release year, file name, source URL, fields used, and date accessed. Do not remove the sample note when copying a number into a briefing sheet.

The Census survey describes methods, sampling, and revisions. An operator comparing it with local leasing data should keep the definitions, periods, and units visible. A mismatch is a review item, not something to silently average away.

Use the file in a repeatable queue

The assistant can download the source, hash or name the file, list the fields used, and prepare questions for the editor. The editor checks the claim against the source. The operator decides whether the result belongs in planning or public content.

Sources and links

1. Census MHS public-use file documentation
2. Census MHS methodology

Related: manufactured home shipment data for park operators and manufactured home community risk records. Review your content evidence process.