RV Inspector Finds Water Damage In New RV

Buying a brand-new RV is an exciting experience. The smell of fresh interiors, the glossy new paint, and the idea of endless road trips can make any RV enthusiast eager to hit the road. However, what if I told you that even your new RV could have hidden issues, including water damage? It’s not something anyone wants to hear, but water damage can occur in RVs fresh off the dealership lot.

In this blog post, we’ll walk through a real-life example, shared by Jason from My RV Inspection and My RV Resource, where he found water damage in a brand-new RV. Jason regularly inspects RVs and has seen firsthand the importance of an RV inspection, even on models straight out of the factory. Here’s the breakdown of what he found and how you can use these tips to prevent buying an RV with hidden water damage.

1. Introducing the Scenario: Brand-New RV Inspection

Jason begins by introducing himself as part of My RV Inspection and My RV Resource, an online directory often referred to as the “Yellow Pages for RV services.” He specializes in RV inspections and provides valuable tips for RV owners and buyers. Jason was called to inspect a brand-new RV that had just been shown at the Tampa RV Super Show.

In this inspection, Jason wanted to highlight the importance of getting an RV inspection, even for new RVs. Many people assume that a brand-new RV, straight from the dealership, should be free of any major issues. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Jason refers to this as the “Weekly One Reason” to get an RV inspection.

2. The Manufacturing Date and RV Super Show Display

The RV in question was manufactured in December 2021, making it just a few months old at the time of the inspection. Additionally, the RV had been on display at the Tampa RV Super Show in January. Despite being new, water damage was discovered during Jason’s thorough inspection.

Jason emphasizes that even though the RV had never been owned or taken on a trip, it had still suffered damage during its time at the dealership and during the display at the Super Show. This is an important reminder that water damage isn’t limited to old or well-used RVs—it can happen to new ones, too. Simply being on display or exposed to the elements can result in unseen damage.

3. How to Spot Water Damage: Inspecting the Furnace Vent and Water Heater Area

One of the key areas Jason focuses on during his inspection is the furnace vent and the water heater. These two components are often located near each other in the interior of RVs, and they are common sources of water leaks if not properly sealed or maintained.

Jason flips the camera to show a cabinet near the furnace vent. Below the cabinet, he points out some wood that is sticking out slightly and feels soft to the touch. This is a telltale sign of water damage. When water leaks onto wood, it absorbs the moisture, causing it to swell and warp. Over time, this can lead to structural damage in the RV.

The fact that the wood was soft and swollen, especially near the furnace vent, suggests that water had leaked into that area. Jason highlights that the furnace and water heater are often installed near each other, meaning that any leaks from the water heater could easily affect the surrounding areas.

4. Likely Source of the Water Damage: Water Heater Leaks

Jason explains that in this particular case, the water heater was likely the source of the leak. Although the RV had never been used by a customer, the water heater may have leaked while it was sitting at the dealership or during its time on display at the Super Show. Unfortunately, the leak wasn’t caught in time, leading to visible water damage by the time Jason conducted his inspection.

This is a crucial takeaway for anyone in the market for an RV: water heaters, if not properly installed or maintained, can leak and cause significant damage. Since the water heater is responsible for heating and distributing hot water throughout the RV, any malfunction or poor connection could lead to a slow leak that eventually causes water damage.

5. The Importance of Hiring an RV Inspector

At this point, Jason reminds viewers that even though this RV was brand-new, it still suffered from water damage. This is why an RV inspection is crucial, regardless of whether the unit is new or used. Many buyers might think that they can skip an inspection on a new RV, but Jason’s example shows that hidden issues can arise before you even take the RV out on its first trip.

He goes on to explain that professional RV inspectors, like himself, know where to look for potential problems. While some signs of water damage may be obvious (such as soft, swollen wood), others may be more subtle and require a trained eye to catch. Inspectors use various tools and tricks of the trade to identify damage and potential issues that could cost RV owners a lot of money in repairs down the road.

6. Inspect Before You Buy: What to Look For

Jason provides valuable advice for those who may want to do a preliminary inspection of their RV before hiring a professional. He suggests that you should carefully examine areas around the furnace and water heater, as these are common sources of leaks. Look for signs of water damage, such as:

• Swollen or warped wood
• Soft spots in flooring or cabinets
• Discolored wood or other materials
• Musty smells, which may indicate mold or mildew

While these are just a few ways to spot water damage, Jason emphasizes that hiring an experienced RV inspector is the best way to ensure you’re getting a full picture of the RV’s condition.

7. Wrapping Up: My RV Resource and Future Updates

In closing, Jason shares some additional information about My RV Inspection and My RV Resource. He and his wife are master-certified inspectors through the NRVIA (National Recreational Vehicle Inspectors Association), and there are only four master-certified inspectors in the country. Two of them work at My RV Inspection, which speaks to their expertise and experience. My RV Inspection also employs RV inspectors they have trained. Their inspectors go through a 12 week training process which is 4 times the training a certified RV inspector gets.

Jason encourages viewers to check out My RV Resource, which serves as an online directory for RV services. By signing up for a free account, users can search for professionals like RV inspectors, repair technicians, and other service providers. Additionally, Jason teases that there are exciting updates and “goodies” coming soon to the platform, and subscribers will be the first to hear about them.

Conclusion: Don’t Skip an RV Inspection

This story of water damage in a brand-new RV is a stark reminder that inspections are crucial, no matter how new or pristine an RV may seem. Water damage can occur at any time, and catching it early can save you a lot of headaches and costly repairs. Whether you’re buying new or used, be sure to hire a professional RV inspector who can give you peace of mind before you hit the road.

For more RV tips, resources, and services, be sure to visit My RV Resource and take advantage of their extensive directory of RV professionals across the country. Safe travels!