Why Get An RV Inspection By A Certified RV Inspector?
Mainly because you don’t want to buy a money pit! When you are spending your hard-earned money on an RV, you want to make sure that it’s a good buy. So it makes sense to hire a third party, unbiased independent certified RV inspector. They are qualified to thoroughly examine the RV you are considering as a purchase.
And the inspection should also be done by someone who is familiar with RVs. And more than that, has also been trained in RV systems and components. That way they know what to look for during the inspection.
The certified RV inspector should also have agreed to a recognized Code of Ethics (www.nrvia.org/code-of-ethics). And they should have been certified by a respected national organization. In short, the inspector should be an NRVIA certified RV inspector. I have that kind of training and certification.
So what does an RV inspection cover?
What Is Covered By An RV Inspection From A Certified RV Inspector
The points of inspection can vary considerably from one RV to another depending on many factors. For instance, whether it’s a motorhome or a towable rig can make a big difference.
Also, the amenities and features of RVs can vary significantly. And access to all items and systems on an RV is sometimes not always possible at inspection time. So the following list contains the items that will be inspected under optimal conditions if found on the inspected RV.
Some people involved in the buy or sell transaction of a RV want to ask questions during the inspection process. But the inspection process is very involved and requires consistent focus on the tasks at hand. It will take on average approximately 5 hours, therefore it is our objective to keep interruptions to a minimum.
Roof
I will inspect the overall condition, the roof type, the sealants used, the condition of vents, skylights and air conditioners. I will also examine TV and radio antennas, and plumbing covers. The front and rear caps and seals get close attention too.
Sidewalls and End Caps
I will inspect the overall condition, the material used in construction, the appearance of paint, gel-coat or other exterior surfaces. In addition I will check for delamination issues, and inspect windows, entry doors and cargo doors for their condition and operation.
Slide-out Rooms
I will inspect the overall condition, the slideout type, and the operating mechanism. I will examine the roof condition, seals, sweeps and gaskets. Also the T-moulding, as well as wiring, floors and harnesses underneath the slideout.
Awnings and Slide-out Toppers
I will inspect the overall condition, type, operating mechanism, (manual or electric) and fabric condition of any awnings. This includes slideout toppers that are present.
Wheels And Tires
I will inspect the load capacity, load range, and the tire age and condition of all tires.
Running Gear
If it is a towable RV, I will inspect the condition of the axles, U-bolts, shackles, springs and equalizers.
Leveling System
I will inspect the condition and operation of the levelers and their controls.
Chassis Lights
I will check for proper functioning of DOT turn signals, running lights and 7/4 pin connectors. And I will also inspect the chassis/house battery and compartment.
120 Volt AC Electrical System
I will inspect and evaluate the power cord, breaker panel, wiring condition, and verify 120 VAC to 12 VDC Converter. I will also perform a hot skin test to detect unsafe voltage levels on the RV. And I’ll also verify the operation of outlets and GFCI receptacles.
Engine Generator
I will inspect and record the model, serial number and running hours of the generator. And also check the oil and coolant levels. I will start and operate the generator under load, and check the output voltage and frequency.
Inverter (if installed):
I will measure the output voltage and frequency under load to insure that it is operating normally.
Coach 12 Volt Battery System
I will inspect and evaluate the condition, location and type of battery bank, and verify charging capability. And I will also inspect the cables and housing.
Fresh Water System
I will verify the operation of the city fresh water hook-up, inspect the fresh water tank, and verify the operation of the on-board 12 volt water pump. And I’ll also inspect for leaks, and operate all fresh water fixtures.
Waste Water System
I will inspect the proper operation of both waste (gray and black) plumbing systems and look for signs of leaks. These could be under sinks, showers and toilets. In addition I will also verify the correct operation of drain valves and the presence and function of drain caps. I will also check the function of the waste water monitor panel.
Life Safety System
I will inspect, test and verify the manufacture date of the smoke, CO and LP Detectors. And I will also test and document the LP system for leaks.
LP Gas System
I will locate and inspect the LP tank(s). I will verify the manufacture date and inspect the hoses and regulator. If fitted, I will inspect the condition of the ASME or DOT tank and document the manufacture date and capacity.
Refrigerator
I will identify the refrigerator brand and model, and operate on all heat sources. And I will measure and record the inside temperature of the refrigerator and freezer areas, and confirm the correct ventilation.
Water Heater
I will locate and identify the water heater, its brand model and capacity. And I’ll verify its operation on gas and 120 Volt AC, visually inspect the burner assembly. And of course, also note the safe presence of a proper seal around the gas line.
Furnace
I will locate and identify the furnace brand, and verify the ability of the furnace to produce warm air. And I will also inspect registers for blockages, confirm controls operate, and note any unusual noises or vibrations.
Cooktop and Stove
I will locate and identify the cooktop and stove, evaluate its condition, and confirm the burner and oven operation.
Air Conditioners
I will locate and identify the air conditioners and measure and report the Delta T of each one. I will also inspect the filters, registers and coils (where accessible).
Washer and Dryer (if installed)
I will locate and identify the washer or dryer, and verify its operation if water or sewer hooks ups are available. I will also visually inspect hoses for leaks and condition, and evaluate the dryer exhaust vent.
Microwave and Convection Oven
I will locate and identify the microwave and convection oven (if present) and verify its operation.
Furniture And Interior
I will inspect the condition and appearance of the ceilings, walls, light fixtures, furniture, beds, cabinets and flooring.
Electronics
I will verify the operation of TVs, DVD players and radios if installed in the RV.
After The Inspection
After the inspection is concluded, I will give you a detailed and accurate report on what was found on that RV usually within 24 hours. With that report in hand, it will enable you to negotiate the repairs and/or the price with the seller. And if you are having your RV inspected prior to selling it instead, you can also use the report as proof of the condition of your RV at the time of the inspection.
Please keep in mind that there are also many different levels of inspection too. So I can adjust the thoroughness of the inspection to your needs and wants.
Only the purchaser of the RV inspection contract will receive the completed inspection reports. We do not offer copies of any inspection report to any other party for any reason.
Our inspection report is delivered via electronic mail and is available in Adobe Acrobat (PDF format). The inspection purchaser is also granted an inspection report review period with me to discuss the findings.
So if you would like to have an RV inspection performed, just fill out the form below and I’ll get back to you right away. Please give me as much information about the RV to be inspected as possible.