Is An RV Inspection A Thing?

A Professional RV inspection is becoming the norm, just like home inspections are for home buyers. Having owned an RV and inspected both new and used RVs, I can say without reservation “Every single RV sold should have a professional certified 3rd party inspection.” These inspections usually take between 6 and 8 hours onsite with the RV and the most common comment is “That’s the best money I ever spent!

RVs go through the equivalent of a 7.0 Magnitude earthquake when traveling, so things can become loose or leak. They can have 2 and sometimes 4 separate electrical systems, freshwater and wastewater systems, and several appliances. RV’s require annual and semi-annual maintenance. There’s a lot that can go wrong, and verifying all of them work or have been maintained takes time and should be left to someone trained and certified.

The excitement of a new RV can cloud even the most knowledgeable critical buyer. A smart RV buyer wants to have a knowledgeable and trustworthy trained set of eyes to go through their next RV with a fine-tooth comb. Having a 3rd party inspection preformed will give you the peace of mind that when you arrive to pick up your RV it will be ready for you and your family to begin your next adventure!

If I’m Buying A New RV, Does It Need An Inspection?

Many RV Dealers do a PDI (Pre-Delivery Inventory), but that’s NOT a 3rd party independent inspection. Rarely is their PDI done by someone trained and certified, and they don’t spend 6 to 8 hours on an RV. When my wife and I preform an inspection we are there all day.

For example, a recent Customer had us inspect a new 5th wheel RV, and even though the Dealer’s PDI report had all items checked as acceptable, I found the water heater did not work on electric, the trailer break away switch was not functioning properly, and a USB charge port that would short out every time it was used and blow the fuse. These are just a few of the items that were found during our extensive inspection!

Each of these items could have turned your RVing fun into frustration, with a trip back to the Dealer and waiting months for them to remedy the issues! Let me help minimize your frustration and give you peace of mind with our through inspection.

Joel and Tanya in our Company Shirts

Great Adventure Certified RV Inspection Services

Points of Inspections

  • Inspect and evaluate the condition of the overall roof

    sealants and joints

    roof vents, air conditioners, antenna, and other roof components ​​

  • Inspect and evaluate front and rear caps

    Aging and general overall condition

    Appearance and functional condition of the end caps, sidewalls, entrance doors, windows and cargo access doors.

    Any damage, discoloration and delamination of the side wall and end cap components.

  • Identify and evaluate the types of slide-out room drive systems and the condition of the

    roof material for the slide-out room

    seals, sweeps, and gaskets for possible damage

    attached wiring and utility harness that feed underneath the slide-out room

  • Inspect and identify the operational type (manual vs electric) of the awnings , slide-out toppers and window awnings and operate and rate the condition of the:

    awning frames and latching mechanisms

    fabric material of the awnings

    Measure and document the fabric size of the awnings

  • Inspect the condition of the 7 pin connector cord

    Operate and evaluate the emergency break away switch

    Activate and evaluate the operation of the DOT lights mounted on the RV

  • Inspect and rate the condition of the power cord and its connection ends

    Remove cover panel of the 120 volt circuit breaker box to visually inspect the condition of the wiring, circuit breakers, and grounding connections.

    Verify the separation of all the wiring types

    Test and verify the output operation of the 120 VAC to 12 VDC converter for charging of the deep cycle battery

    Test and verify the inverter if applicable

  • - if installed *strongly recommend performing oil analysis to determine internal combustion engine component condition.

    Identify and note the model, serial number, and run hours of the generator

    Check oil level

    Start and operate the onboard generator

    Test the voltage output and frequency (60 cycles)

    Put generator under a load to verify operation (typically operating 1 air conditioner will create the correct amount of load)

  • - if installed on this model of Generator *strongly recommend performing coolant analysis to determine the condition of the coolant fluid and the internal cooling system.

    Location of the radiator and cooling fans

    Visually inspect the coolant reservoir, radiator and hoses

  • – if installed
    Identify and note the model and serial number of the inverter

    Visually inspect the wiring and electrical connections and fuses/circuit breakers

    Place electrical load on inverter to verify proper operation

  • (12 volt DC deep cycle Battery Electrical System)

    Locate and note the location of the battery stack

    Evaluate the condition, age, and matched sizing of the battery stack

    Evaluate and determine if positive and negative cables are correctly matched for balanced load

    Access and visually inspect the wiring, fuse panel, and fuses of the 12 volt DC electrical system

    Evaluate the operation of the fresh water/wastewater monitor panel for incorrect tank readings

  • (Gray and Black Water)

    Operationally test and inspect waste (gray and black) plumbing systems for leaks

    Identify the type of drain valve controls, verify they will maintain water in their tank, and test for ease of operation

    Verify the drain cap is in place and will hold wastewater

  • - if equipped

    Document the manufacture date, location(s), and tank sizes of DOT cylinders

    Conduct visual inspection of exterior of cylinder for rust and other damage

  • - if equipped

    If tank is visible, conduct a visual inspection of tank for rust or physical damage

    List the location, manufacture date (if accessible), and gallon capacity of the tank

  • Identify and note the brand and type of system

    Verify the system operates properly by extending and retracting leveling system

    Note visual indications of hydraulic leaks or mechanic issues

  • Identify and document the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), Vehicle Frame Number and license plate info

    List the inspection sticker information (if applicable), RVIA inspection seal number, Gross Vehicle Weight Rating, and date of manufacture

  • Please note the following items: Due to insurance restrictions the Motorhome can NOT be driven by the Inspector

  • *strongly recommend performing oil analysis to determine internal combustion engine component condition.

    Make and model of the engine

    Verify oil level on the dipstick

    Indications of engine issues or any noises while running

    Are there noticeable oil or exhaust leaks

    Note the oil pressure reading on the dash gauges

  • *strongly recommend performing coolant analysis to determine the condition of the coolant fluid and the internal cooling system.

    Location of the radiator and cooling fans

    Visually inspect the coolant reservoir, radiator and hoses

  • *strongly recommend performing transmission fluid analysis to determine the condition of the fluid and the internal components of the transmission.

    Type of transmission

    Fluid level on dipstick

    Indications of contaminated transmission fluid

  • Visually inspect for bent or damaged components and hydraulic leaks

  • Perform and document LP gas timed leak test

    Test the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) circuits

    Test all wall receptacles for correct polarity and ground fault

    Test the exterior skin for hot skin that would cause electrical shock

    Emergency Exit Windows – Verify all safety windows are operational

    Verify Fire Extinguisher is secure and fully charged

    Test and verify operation and expiration date of Smoke/Fire Detector and Carbon Monoxide Detector (if applicable)

    LP Gas Detector – Verify gas detection and audio alarm and document expiration date of detector

    Verify the rubber grommet is properly sealed around LP gas line of water heater

  • Identify the brand, model, and type of refrigerator

    Note the location of the vent panels used by refrigerator

    Operate on all heat sources - 120 volt AC, LP gas and for 3-way refrigerators, 12 volt DC

    Collect serial and model number and verify with manufacturer if recall notice has been issued and completed for this unit

    Visually verify if baffle system on back of refrigerator area is correct and directing heat away from gas coils

    Test for interior temperature of upper and lower refrigerator compartments and ice maker (if installed) *if refrigerator has been operating for minimum of 12 hours

    Check condition of door frame, shelving, crisper drawers, door shelves, door gasket seals, and interior light

  • - if equipped

    Identify the brand, model, and type of water heater

    Visually inspect burner assembly and gas exhaust system for blockages and insect infestation

    Fill tank with water (if necessary) and verify operation on all heat sources – LP gas and 120 volt AC if equipped with heating element

    Operate and verify positioning of bypass valves on back of water heater (If installed)

    Determine if proper drain plug has been installed in water heater tank

    Inspect and evaluate if the correct type of dauber screen is being used (If installed)

  • - if equipped

    Identify the brand, model, and type of furnace(s) that have been installed (If accessible)

    Identify the type of thermostat controls being used to operate furnace(s)

    Visually inspect air intake and exhaust assemblies for blockages and insect infestation

    Operate and verify warm air discharge out of vents and proper return air flow to unit

    Monitor for unusual noise or vibration of blower motor
    Inspect and evaluate if the correct type of dauber screen is being used (If installed)

  • Evaluate and rate the condition of the cook top or stove, the control knobs, door handles, oven racks, metal grill top, and rubber grommets of top burner area

    List presence and condition of stove top covers

    Verify the ignition and operation of all top burners and the oven flame (if equipped)

  • Identify and list the type of cooling unit/heat pump

    Perform cooling efficiency test (Delta T) on each unit

    Visually inspect the plenum box and duct work sealing, air filter, and the cooling and the heat exhaust coils for debris and cleanliness

  • Visually inspect and verify a wash and rinse cycle of the washer and dryer and leaks or damaged hoses

    Evaluate and rate the exterior condition of the dryer exhaust vent

  • Identify and list the brand, model, type, and output wattage of the unit

    Verify the rack and turn tables are installed

    Operate unit for 60 seconds utilizing cup of water and then list water temperature

  • - if installed

    Identify and list the brand and model of unit

    Verify operation of unit and inspect for leaks and non-functioning rotating racks and wash bars

  • - if installed

    Identify and list the brand and model of unit

    Verify the operation and visually inspect the various components

  • - if installed

    Identify and list the brand and model of unit

    Operate and verify the various heat settings, fan speed levels, and the back lighting

  • Operate and verify condition of the exhaust function and fan speeds

    Visually inspect the filter, lighting, and the exterior condition of the exhaust vent

  • Visually inspect the condition of the blades and motor

    Operate and verify condition of the blade direction and fan speeds and lighting (if equipped)

  • Visually inspect all ceilings, walls, interior doors, and flooring for signs of water intrusion, surface damage and/or staining

    Operate all windows and doors noting any deficiencies or missing components

    Evaluate the window coverings

    Operate all interior, exterior and decor lighting - 12 volt and 120 volt

  • Inspect and evaluate all cabinet doors, drawers, and pull-out operation

    Visually inspect all counter tops and flat surface areas of the kitchen, living room, bathroom, bedroom and storage areas for scratches and damage

    Identify and list all broken and loose cabinet and closet hardware

    Note if appearance of previous damage repairs have been performed

  • Visually inspect the condition of the dinette table/booth, chairs, recliners and sofa

    Inspect and note furniture fabric tears, discoloration and signs of excessive wear

    Visually inspect and note signs of mattress damage or staining

  • – if item installed

    Visually inspect and operate all TV, stereo equipment, DVD/disc players, radios, local channels antenna, 12 volt DC power signal booster is operational, roof mounted antenna and remotes

  • Visually inspect and evaluate the glass panels, curtains, soap dish areas, seals around the framework and doors for water leaks, latch system

  • Type and number of axles and weight ratings for each axle set

    Inspect the frame, axles, springs, rims, and other components for rust, oil stains and visible damage

    Document the information on the tires as to their age and weight capacities

    Check tire pressure and tread condition

    Note any valve extensions and pressure monitors

  • Inspect and identify the type of system used to tow vehicle

    Evaluate and list modifications to hitch system

Other Services Offered

Fluid Sampling & Analysis

Great Adventure RV Repair & Inspections recommends fluid sampling and analysis for both new and used RVs on an annual basis. These tests help determine the health of the engines in motorized RVs and installed generators.

​These samples help identify hidden problems and saves thousands in repair costs by finding small problems before they become major ones. Samples are sent out to a lab for analysis.

Safety Inspection

This inspection will detail only the viability of your life safety items. It will have a pass or fail on each inspection point. 

A basic report will be emailed to the customer, which doesn’t include photos. This inspection takes 2 to 3 hours.

RV Owner Walk Through and Education

One of our favorite things to do is to walk through a new RV home with prospective owners while providing education on where to find the different systems, how they work and provide advice and actions to take if systems aren’t working properly. The dealer calls this PDI (Pre-delivery inspection) we call is PMI~ Peace of Mind Inspection! The inspector will also provide hints, tips and tricks for maintaining your RV and its systems.

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