Buying your first or next RV

Inspections can save you from repair dollar nightmares

_{Background photo credit: The Homestead Guru}

It goes without saying that when looking for an RV is a journey unto itself. The variety of options is endless. Whether you're a first time or repeat buyer your needs, wants and budget certainly influence your decisions. Unfortunately, there are as many sharks hungry for your dollars as also exist in the auto world. They know how to influence your emotions in their favour.

Would you buy a vehicle without knowing its mechanical status? Our guess is that you want to know what it needs to be a reliable and safe vehicle. The same applies in the purchase of an RV. Inspections are overlooked far too often at the buyers expense. What looks to be a really nice RV can quickly turn out to be lemon. This applies just as much to new as it does to used RV's. You would be shocked at the number of 'new' RV's requiring costly repairs almost as soon as they exist their fabrication.

We don't want to sour your enthusiasm we just want to help prepare you in the purchase of your RV. Far better to know what to look for and enjoy your purchase than to regret it.

Before we go inside and get all caught up in how beautiful it looks lets start with the basics. Below are a few things to look for before you hand out your hard earned money:

• Does the owner have title to the RV - it isn't rude to ask for the registration papers
• Inspect all exterior surface areas, window/doors, their sealants, and corners
  • this can easily determine if there has been significant structural damage
• Extend all slide/tip outs, awnings for inspection - inspect any/all existing slide out toppers
• Visually inspect the condition of all tires, propane tanks and lines, light lenses and any other exterior items
• A quick peek inside to see if you like the layout and then we'll get to the sequence we use
• Hoping that its a sunny day, crawl under the trailer and inspect the entire underbelly - there should be no entry points for mice!
  • This includes the underbelly of all slide/tip outs - yes, make sure the slide/tip outs are operational!
• Visually check any propane, sewage and any visible wiring
• If the ladder on the rear is solid then its a trip to the roof - if there isn't a ladder either request or go get one
  • you wouldn't buy a house with a damaged roof.. would you?
• We never immediately walk on a roof as you never know where/if there are soft spots
• Check the entire roof surface for any signs of weathering and/or damage
• Inspect all components of the roof
• • All 4 corners must be tightly sealed as well as both front, rear and side trims
  • Check anywhere that sealant has been, or should have been applied
  • Check the condition of all vent covers and other accessories
  • There should be no soft areas under the roof membrane
  • Inspect the roof areas, trims etc of all slide/tip outs

That covers most of the exterior inspection! Once satisfied that the entire exterior is in good condition, especially the roof, then it's time for the interior.
Here the emotions often override any/all exterior issues. Previous exterior sealant issues are not always visually detected but can show signs inside.
Damage to the ceiling, flooring, slide/tip out flanges and trims, wall panels and any other interior parts and accessories need to be noted!

We haven't even touched on a proper propane inspection yet!
We will not take shortcuts when it comes to your safety. We use a propane inspection form that's known as highly respected by the TSSA due to its thoroughness. We did not create the form as it was developed over many years by a highly respected Ottawa Valley propane technician. We were provided this form to assist us in ensuring that our propane inspections are thorough in every aspect. We're are talking about your safety after all.

We could probably go on and on but it can't be said enough that an inspection of any RV, be it a motor home, A, B or C class, pull along or pop-up tent trailer is a must!
We have saved many prospective owners from spending their money on the wrong RV.
Contact us to arrange an inspection before your buy! 1-343-361-0680

For inspection requests you may go to our Help Me! page and complete one of the Inspection Request Forms. For information only simply click on the "Information Only" form button below.

One thing that will never change is our approach. We have old school values - we will not take shortcuts. We've built our reputation on it.