TINY HOME GLOSSARY

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
A secondary housing unit on a single-family residential lot, often used for tiny homes placed on existing property.

ANSI A119.5
The American National Standards Institute code for tiny homes and park model RVs, covering construction and safety requirements.

Chassis
The steel frame foundation that supports a tiny home or park model, often equipped with axles and wheels for transport.

Dry Weight
The weight of the tiny home or park model without water, fuel, or personal belongings.

Full Hookups
Connections for electricity, water, and sewer typically found at RV parks or tiny home communities.

HUD Code
Federal building standards for manufactured homes; tiny homes generally do not fall under HUD regulations.

Insulation R-Values                                                                                                                                                             A measure of thermal resistance that indicates how well insulation material prevents heat transfer—the higher the R-value, the better the insulation performance.

Insurance                                                                                                                                                                               

Homeowners insurance for tiny homes; because of their unique characteristics, insuring a tiny house can be more complex.

Loft
An elevated sleeping or storage area in a tiny home, accessed by stairs or a ladder.

Mini-Split: A ductless heating and cooling system that provides efficient temperature control for small spaces like tiny homes.

National Organization for Alternative Housing (NOAH)                                                                           

A third-party inspection service ensuring tiny homes meet safety and building standards throughout construction. (see NOAH+ Standard)

NOAH+ Standard
An advanced certification that inspects tiny homes’ structure, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and safety systems. (See National Organization for Alternative Housing)

Off-grid                                                                                                                                                                                         

A lifestyle choice where a tiny home is not connected to public utilities like water, sewer, or electricity.

Optional Features
Non-standard upgrades like porches, lofts, or custom cabinetry which are available for tiny homes.

Park Model
A larger tiny home built on a chassis, usually up to 399 sq. ft., designed for semi-permanent placement and often meeting ANSI A119.5 standards.

RVIA Certification
Issued by the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association, verifying compliance with RV standards.

Skirting
Material installed around the base of a tiny home or park model to conceal the chassis and provide insulation.

Snow Load Capacity
The amount of weight a roof can safely support from accumulated snow, important for homes in cold climates.

Spray Foam Insulation (Closed Cell)

A dense, rigid insulation material that offers superior moisture resistance, structural strength, and high thermal performance.

Spray Foam Insulation (Open Cell)

A lightweight insulation material with a soft, flexible structure that expands to fill gaps and provides good air sealing and soundproofing.

Tie-Downs
Anchoring systems used to secure a tiny home or park model to the ground for stability and safety.

Tiny Home on Wheels (THOW)
A small, fully functional dwelling built on a trailer chassis, designed for mobility and easy relocation while offering all the essentials of a traditional home.

Tiny Living Alliance                                                                                                                                                                  An international organization that promotes quality standards, transparency, and consumer protection within the tiny home industry.

Utility Connections
Hookups for electricity, water, and sewer required for tiny home functionality.

Zoning
Local regulations determining where tiny homes and park models can be placed legally.