This bill aims to enhance consumer protection regarding manufactured homes in West Virginia by establishing a new article in the state code that outlines the responsibilities of manufacturers concerning express warranties. It mandates that manufacturers must fulfill their warranty obligations and bear the costs associated with repairs or replacements of manufactured homes that do not conform to these warranties. The bill also prohibits any agreements that would transfer these responsibilities to dealers, ensuring that consumers can directly hold manufacturers accountable for warranty issues.

Additionally, the bill provides consumers with various remedies if their manufactured home has defects that substantially impair its use or market value. These remedies include the right to a refund, damages for repair costs, and compensation for loss of use. It also establishes a framework for a third-party dispute resolution process overseen by the Attorney General, which consumers must initially utilize before pursuing legal action. The bill emphasizes that these new provisions do not limit any existing rights or remedies available to consumers under other laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 46A-6O-1, 46A-6O-2, 46A-6O-3, 46A-6O-4, 46A-6O-5, 46A-6O-6, 46A-6O-7, 46A-6O-8, 46A-6O-9, 46A-6O-10