Buying your first RV can be a scary proposal, but having a qualified inspector take a look before purchase should settle a few nerves. Think of it as like buying a house because there are many things that can go wrong with both. You may be asking yourself, do I need an RV inspection?
What looks normal and in great condition to us may look much different to a trained eye. They will be able to hopefully spot problems with the RV that might become a problem down the road.
Often we fall in love with the idea of hitting the road or we find that perfect floorplan we have been in search of, it can cloud our judgment. Yes, I can raise my hand to that one and just marked it down as a learning experience. Luckily for me, it was not a costly mistake due to it being an older class C purchase.
This is where the trained eye of a certified inspector comes into play. They know what to look for and look at it from an impartial viewpoint.
If you are searching for RV inspections, you may be in line for making a new purchase. If so, you would also want to address the topic of RV insurance
Do the manufacturer and dealer do inspections?
Both manufacturer and your dealership will do a pre-delivery inspection or (PDI) before you the buyer takes possession. You would think your RV is ready to go after this, but many times issues are missed or just left unaddressed or repaired.
You are making a large purchase and getting an independent third-party inspector to take a look is in your best interest.
Start your RV life off on the right foot with some peace of mind knowing that your RV has been gone over with a fine-tooth comb.
What Is An RV Inspection?
An RV inspection is an objective evaluation of an RV’s condition and components by a qualified third party. Similar to a home inspection when buying a house, an RV inspection looks over all the structural and mechanical systems of an RV. In some ways, an RV is even more complicated than a home as it is basically a home on wheels.
What’s included in a pre-purchase RV inspection
A certified inspector has been trained to perform a very thorough 40-point RV inspection. This should include a review of the following components:
- Exterior RV components
- Roof
- Sidewalls
- Antennas
- Awnings
- Windows
- Slide-out topper awnings
- Solar panels
- Brakes
- Appliances
- Washer and dryer
- Interior walls
- Floors
- Utilities
- Chassis
- Wheels and tires
- Automotive components
- Water heater
- Electrical components
- Plumbing
- Plumbing appliances
- Inverter
- Lights
- Vehicle data information
- Furnace
- Pump
- Tanks
What does an RV inspection cost?
An RV inspection is a fraction of the cost of many RV repairs. RV inspectors set their own rates, so rates will vary a lot. It usually costs between $200 and $1200 to inspect an RV. The cost of the inspection will really depend on the RV involved and the depth of the inspection. The inspection may take as little as 3 hours, or it may take up to 8 hours.
Why hire an NRVIA certified RV inspector?
A professional RV inspection is a thorough, reported inspection of the RV. NRVIA Certified RV inspectors have training, experience, and knowledge of all RV components and systems. They know exactly what can go wrong with them and are trained to look for defects.
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