Why should you have an RV inspection?
You finally found the RV of your dream! After months of debating, you have finally settled on the make and model that you want. You find one that seems reasonably priced, and the seller or salesman assures you that everything is perfect, but how do you know if it is really a good deal?
The answer is to have an RV inspection done by someone who has no financial interest in the outcome of the sale. This inspection should be done by someone who is familiar with RV components and has been trained in troubleshooting. The inspector should have agreed to a Code of Ethics and have been certified by a national organization. In short, an NRVIA certified inspector.
Your inspector will do more than just look at the physical condition of the RV. He will safety test all components such as the electrical system, the propane system and the fire extinguishers. He will look for problems which may be hidden, such as the possibility of water damage or insect intrusion. For more details, see What is covered in an RV inspection?
After the inspection, your inspector will give you a detailed and accurate report. With that report, you can negotiate repairs and/or price with the seller. If you are having your RV inspected prior to selling it, you can use the report as proof of the condition of your RV at the time of the inspection.
There are many different levels of inspection. If you are going to living in your RV full time, however, we strongly recommend that you add a fluid analysis to your inspection. The inspector will not check the mechanical components of your motorhome or towing vehicle (the engine, transmission, brakes, etc.) as that should be done by a qualified RV mechanic but they will check the fluids on those systems.
A lab analysis of these fluids will give you a snapshot of their condition. For example, engine oil and coolant is checked for viscosity and contamination such as suspended metals. If the lab finds metal shavings, you definitely want to take that engine to a mechanic. Your RV inspector can also check transmission fluid, generator oil and coolant and the hydraulic jacks.
