Are you considering purchasing an RV and want to ensure you’re making a sound investment? A pre-purchase RV inspection from the experts at My RV Inspection provides a comprehensive assessment of the vehicle’s condition before you buy.
Keep reading to learn what every RV buyer should know. We’ll cover common inspection mistakes and how hiring our professionals can help you avoid costly surprises down the road.
The Importance of Pre-Purchase RV Inspections
Never underestimate the importance of a thorough inspection before purchasing an RV. A pre-purchase RV inspection helps you avoid hidden issues that could lead to costly repairs down the road.
Some buyers assume that skipping an inspection saves money, but unexpected breakdowns can result in expensive fixes that far outweigh the initial investment in a professional evaluation. Additionally, identifying potential problems early can prevent inefficiencies that drive up fuel and HVAC costs.
At My RV Inspection, specialists Jason and Lisa Carletti bring their expertise to every inspection, ensuring buyers have a clear understanding of an RV’s condition before committing. As NRVIA Master Certified Inspectors, they go beyond surface-level checks to uncover hidden issues that a DIY inspection might miss, giving you the confidence to make an informed purchase.
What Are the Risks of DIY RV Inspections?
Some RV buyers feel confident in their ability to perform their own inspections. However, this leaves them vulnerable to significant risk, which can arise from a lack of training or proper equipment.
DIY Approaches: Common Pitfalls
DIY attempts inevitably result in mistakes. Even with a comprehensive RV inspection checklist, you may overlook crucial components. Recreational vehicles contain many places where water damage can go unnoticed and develop serious issues like mold growth.Â
Even a detailed RV inspection checklist can’t highlight every nook and crevice the vehicle owner should check. Identifying pinpoint leaks in the roof and other subtle issues requires experience.
Mechanical and electrical problems are two areas that amateur inspectors often overlook. Many of these issues need specialized tools to diagnose. The equipment requires a considerable investment and training and eliminates any savings you obtain from a DIY check-up.
Required Tools and Expertise
You’ll notice an index of tools that may sound unfamiliar when you look over an RV inspection checklist for buyers. Which of the following pieces of equipment could you confidently use?
- Multimeters
- Moisture meters
- Infrared thermometers
- Specialized diagnostic software
Do you know how hot an engine should feel or what every unusual HVAC sound means? In assessing the quality of a professional RV inspection vs. a DIY inspection, the experts always produce better results.
Costly DIY Mistakes: Real-World Examples
If you’re still interested in doing your own pre-purchase RV inspection, our staff can share real stories about how it can go wrong.Â
Jason Carletti remembers one instance where he identified a ladder installed upside down. It looked correct at first glance, but experience led him to double-check it. He realized it posed a serious safety hazard.
A new vehicle shouldn’t have any problems. However, Jason’s inspections of a brand-new RV revealed a potentially life-threatening propane leak during the check.
In both of these examples, a small inspection oversight could have created major financial consequences. Don’t risk falling into the same trap.
A Comprehensive RV Inspection Checklist for Owners
Performing a basic walkthrough before hiring the professionals can streamline the process. However, detailed RV inspection services go above and beyond the following procedures. Consider this a supplement rather than a replacement for expert attention.
Exterior Checklist
Check the outside of the recreational vehicle for:
- Cracks or damage in the roof and walls
- Sealant issues like drafty windows
- Points where water can intrude
- Properly locking windows and doors
- Appropriate tire pressure
- The condition and functionality of the suspension components
Common Interior Problems
If you’re wondering how to inspect an RV before buying, check the inside for the issues that include:
- Water damage or structural issues on the floors, ceiling, and walls
- Properly functioning appliances in the kitchen and HVAC system
- Working lights
- Excellent safety features, like fire extinguishers and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Important Mechanical and Electrical Systems
Don’t forget the mechanical and electrical systems as part of your RV maintenance checklist before a trip. Remember to:
- Inspect oil levels
- Listen for unusual sounds in the engine
- Look for corrosion and frayed wires
- Confirm the vehicle maintains proper electrical connections and outlet functionality
Plumbing and Water Components
RV inspection services include reviewing the plumbing system for the following:
- Leaks in the water tanks
- Proper valve operations
- The condition of the water heater and pumps
DIY Checklist vs. Professional RV Inspection: What’s the Difference?
What does a professional checklist include that a DIY list doesn’t? The process incorporates over 500 points. The professionals use essential tools like borescopes and thermal imaging. They’ll check and refill refrigerant levels, which risks exposure to the toxic substance.
The inspector will locate leaks in the propane tank and verify its levels. They’ll test the pressure levels of all pipes and appliances and safely tighten electrical connections after testing voltage levels. The tasks also include determining the structural integrity of the floors, walls, and ceilings and looking for hidden mold growth.
The work ends with detailed reports reaching up to 100 pages long. It contains a comprehensive analysis and comments.
The Benefits of Hiring an Expert Like My RV Inspection
Why hire a professional RV inspector? This smart investment offers several advantages that offset the professional RV inspection cost.
Expertise and Qualifications
Experts like Jason and Lisa Carletti have master certifications from the National Recreational Vehicle Inspectors Association. They achieved this distinction by running an inspection business for at least two years and submitting at least 50 reports. They also undergo continual education and maintain significant satisfaction levels on third-party review sites.
Long-Term Cost Savings
A pre-purchase RV inspection done by professionals saves you money in the long term when they use a detailed RV inspection checklist. Repairs can cost thousands of dollars when the RV breaks.
My RV Inspection customers consistently thank them for saving them money. For example, how much would a leaky propane tank cost the owner in hospital bills or after the gas catches fire?Â
Enhanced Peace of Mind
Buying an RV should be the start of an exciting adventure—not a source of stress. The last thing you want is to discover hidden mechanical issues after you’ve already hit the road. A professional pre-purchase RV inspection provides a detailed report on the vehicle’s condition, giving you peace of mind before you buy. With a thorough inspection, you can travel with confidence, knowing your RV is ready for the journey ahead.
Complete Your RV Inspection the Right Way Without Risk
While you can perform basic checks using our RV inspection checklist, a professional inspection is essential when purchasing a new RV. The experts at My RV Inspection provide a comprehensive evaluation to uncover potential issues before they become costly problems. Investing in a pre-purchase inspection not only protects your investment but also saves you money in the long run by preventing unexpected repairs.
To schedule an appointment, call 813-484-9974.
