Question 1

Why should I get an inspection of my RV?

Accepted Answer

Why You Should Consider a Pre-Purchase Inspection for Your RV
Even brand-new RVs right off the showroom floor may not be perfect. They are made by humans and mistakes are made. To avoid spending thousands of dollars on repairs or weeks at the dealership waiting for warranty repair work to be completed, it is wise to have an inspection done before making a purchase. Waiting for months to have your RV serviced while making monthly payments and not being able to enjoy it is not ideal. By having a pre-purchase RV inspection, you can identify potential problems and have them addressed or negotiate for a lower price before taking ownership.

Photo - Padre National Seashore, TX

Question 2

What is not included in an inspection?

Accepted Answer

Important Information Regarding RV Inspections
Please note that we do not offer any warranties or guarantees for any part of the RV. Our inspection only covers a visual examination of the major components and their current condition at the time of the inspection. Unfortunately, we cannot inspect areas behind walls, floors, or ceilings. Additionally, we are unable to provide any diagnostic services during the inspection.
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Loafer's Bend Texas

Question 3

How much is an inspection?

Accepted Answer

Inspections range from $495 to $2495 depending on the following factors
· Size, Type, & Equipment on the RV
· Number of points inspected
· Number of systems tested
· Life Safety & Critical Systems
· Inspection time (Typically 8 to 10+ Hours)
· Number of pictures taken (Between 45 - 110+)
· Report length (25 to 80+ pages)
· Database search on vehicle history
· Video of operating systems (slideouts, awnings, leveling systems, etc.)
· Fluid Analysis (Engine, Transmission, Coolant, Generator, Hydraulics, etc.)
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Photo: Monahans Sands State Park Texas

Question 4

What is included in a Basic Life Safety inspection?

Accepted Answer

It includes:
o  Perform and document LP gas timed leak test at cooktop burner spud for 5 minutes at 8 inches of water column gas pressure.
o  Test the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) circuits in the 6-foot range of the water areas of the bathroom, kitchen, and exterior receptacles.
o  Test all wall receptacles for correct polarity and ground fault.
o  Test the exterior skin for Hot Skin that would cause electrical shock.
o  Emergency Exit Windows - Verify all safety windows are operational.
o  Fire Extinguisher - Verify unit is secure in the bracket, and that the dial indicates the extinguisher is fully charged.
o  Smoke/Fire Detector - Test and verify the operation of the units.
o  Carbon Monoxide Detector (if applicable) - Test and verify the operation of the unit.
o  LP Gas Detector - Verify gas detection and audio alarm. Document the expiration date of the detector.
o  Verify the rubber grommet is sealed correctly around the LP gas line of the water heater.
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McKinney Falls State Park, Austin Texas

Question 5

What is a hotskin test?

Accepted Answer

RV Electrical Safety: Understanding the Risks of Short or Compromised Wiring

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Did you know that a short or compromised wire within your RV has the potential to electrify your entire vehicle? In some cases, this can lead to fatal injuries. During the RV manufacturing process, screws can penetrate the protective coating on the wiring which can rub against the wire with each movement of the RV. This friction can cause an electrical short that flows through the walls of the RV, down to the frame and eventually to the ground. If you touch the side of your RV while standing on the ground, you become a path for the electrical current. To prevent potential life safety hazards, it's important to check for a hotskin on your RV.

Question 6

What does an RV inspection include?

Accepted Answer

We offer different levels of inspections.  They can be the very basics of life safety issues like electrical issues and gas leaks. All the way to over a 140-point comprehensive premier inspection that includes life safety, functionality and integrity.

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Franconia Notch, Franconia NH

Question 7

Who needs an inspection?

Accepted Answer

Benefits of an RV Inspection for Buyers and Sellers
An RV inspection can be a valuable tool for both buyers and sellers. It allows sellers to disclose any issues that may arise and assist in the negotiation process.
For out-of-town buyers, an inspection provides peace of mind that a professional is thoroughly examining the vehicle. This is especially important as some problems may not be visible in photographs, saving time and money on travel.
For first-time RV buyers, hiring a certified inspector eliminates the need to know everything about RVs, leaving it in the hands of an expert.
 Finally, experienced RV owners can use an inspection report to their advantage when negotiating with a seller.

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White Mountain National Forest, Carroll NH

Question 8

When do I have to pay for the inspection?

Accepted Answer

All services are paid prior to the inspection.  We accept payments via Zelle, Venmo, cash or coming soon credit card.
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Question 9

How long does an inspection take to perform?

Accepted Answer

Factors Affecting RV Inspection Length
The duration of an RV inspection is dependent on several factors. A Safety Inspection can be completed in around three to five hours, whereas a thorough Premier inspection can take anywhere from eight to ten hours or even longer. The time taken to conduct the inspection depends on the type of RV, the amount of installed equipment, and the number of issues found. John and Angela work as team. Each of us are inspecting the RV for the 8-10 hours. We are committed to providing top-notch inspections, and we will take as long as necessary to achieve this goal.

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Dam Site, Greers Ferry, Arkansas

Question 10

Does the RV need full hook ups to do the inspection?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in order to do a full inspection we will need to have full hook ups.  With out electricity, water and the ability to dump tanks, we will not be able to tell you if all systems are working properly.

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White Mountains, NH

Question 11

Do you share the inspections with anyone?

Accepted Answer

The person that has purchased the inspection is the only one that will receive the report.  They are free to share the inspection with whomever they choose.  And will need to give us written permission to discuss it with anyone else.  With the exception to life safety issues that we are ethically bound to disclose.

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White Mountains, NH

Question 12

Can you do an inspection at a dealership?

Accepted Answer

Most dealers are very accommodating in having a certified independent inspection. Please verify with the dealership their policies.   Proof of insurance can be provided upon request.
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Corpus Christie, TX

Question 13

Can a private seller or dealership sell the RV before you get a chance to inspect it?

Accepted Answer

Potentially, yes.  You may want to have an inspection clause written into your purchase agreement and the deposit made refundable if the inspection is unsatisfactory. There is usually a set time frame to have the results of the inspection. We cannot offer legal advice, please consult an attorney in your location to verify specifics. 
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Moore Reservoir, Littleton NH

Question 14

What is the time frame to have an inspection completed?

Accepted Answer

There are a lot of variables that will affect the time-frame.  The inspectors schedule, the distance the inspector must travel, the availability of the RV to be inspected.  We cannot perform inspections on an RV that is being shown or having work performed on it. 
Once an inspection is completed the report will be back to you within 24-48 
hours.

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Sutton, Vermont

Question 15

What happens if the seller doesn’t allow us to have an inspection?

Accepted Answer

What to Do When the Seller Won't Allow an Inspection
If the seller denies permission for an inspection, we cannot proceed with one. However, it's important to inquire about their reasons for denying it. Should the seller remain reluctant, it's up to you to decide whether or not you're comfortable with the uncertainty. Remember, this is your opportunity to safeguard yourself. Only you can determine the level of risk you're willing to undertake with your investment.  Sellers are looking out for their bottom line.

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Canyon Lake Texas

Question 16

Do new RVs need to be inspected?

Accepted Answer

RVs Are Not Perfect, But Certified Inspectors Can Help
Similar to traditional homes, RVs are constructed by humans and are not without flaws. Furthermore, the transportation of these vehicles from the manufacturer to the dealer may cause parts to become loose. While dealerships usually have a set amount of time for inspections, we take all the time we need to perform a thorough 140+ point inspection.

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On a 2021 used resale.  This was missed by the dealers pre delivery inspection.  What else do you think they missed?

Question 17

What is needed for an inspection?

Accepted Answer

The RV will need to be available for the duration of the inspection without it being shown or having work completed on it. It will need to be set up so that everything inside and out can be fully evaluated. It will need full utility hookups, including water, sewer, and electricity. The RV must be dewinterized.  Our insurance does not cover dewinterizing for inspections.  If the RV is not de-winterized when we arrive at the agreed upon inspection time, we will cancel the inspection and the buyer will be charged a $500 rescheduling fee.  Unfortunately, we have had too many dealers promise the RVs will be ready for inspection and they are not.  We will call you and let you know the dealer hasn't properly prepared the RV for inspection or provided the agreed upon hookups.
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Question 18

What happens after the inspection?

Accepted Answer

Upon completion of the inspection, we will finalize the report and send it to you via email within 24-48 hours. We will also be available to address any concerns or queries you may have.
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Question 19

What is open season inspection?

Accepted Answer

Is Your RV Ready for the Season? Let Us Help!
Our service is perfect for those who are unsure how to inspect their RV or simply do not have the time to do it themselves. After your RV has been dewinterized, we will thoroughly inspect all seams and ensure that all systems are functioning properly. Trust us to get your RV in top shape for the season.

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Question 20

What happens if we find deal breakers during the inspection?  Do we still have to pay the full inspection price?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you are paying for our knowledge not our time.We will work until the job is done and do not put time limits on a premiere inspection. If we have given you enough information to make an informed decision if the RV is right for you, we have done what you hired us to do.

Question 21

I haven’t seen the RV for myself, if you get there and you immediately see major issues what will happen?

Accepted Answer

We will call you and explain our findings. You can then decide how you wish to proceed. If you do not intend to purchase the RV the seller may not wish for the inspection to continue.

Question 22

Will you tell the seller/rv dealer what you found during the inspection?

Accepted Answer

We will only share the life safety issues with them.  We are ethically bound by our code of ethics to do so.

Question 23

Will you tell the seller/RV dealer for us that we are not moving forward with a sale?

Accepted Answer

No, the scope of our services for an inspection do not include relaying your purchasing decision for you.

Question 24

Will you tell the seller/RV dealer what we want fixed?

Accepted Answer

No.  You will have an option with a premiere inspection to create a "Honey-Do” list that you may share with anyone.

Question 25

If the Seller/RV Dealer has questions about your findings, will you answer them?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We will explain where we found something and what it was, we found.  We will not debate our findings with them.

FAQ

Padre National Seashore, Texas