Inspections

An RV inspection is one of the smartest investments you can make before buying a used coach — and one of the most overlooked. Unlike cars, where a visual inspection and a test drive reveal most issues, RV problems hide inside walls, under floors, on rooftops, and deep in mechanical bays. A water leak that has been active for two years may show no visible damage on the surface while silently rotting the entire rear wall structure. An inspection by a qualified RV technician can reveal these hidden problems before you write the check. There are several types of RV inspections worth knowing about. A pre-purchase inspection is the most common and involves a systematic check of all systems: roof and exterior seals, electrical (both DC and AC), plumbing, appliances, HVAC, slideouts, awnings, hitch and chassis (on towables), and engine and drivetrain (on motorhomes). A safety inspection focuses specifically on LP gas systems, smoke and CO detector function, fire extinguisher condition, and emergency exit operation. Annual maintenance inspections give full-time RVers a regular baseline check on wear items before they become failures on the road. When hiring a mobile RV inspector, look for NRVIA (National Recreational Vehicle Inspectors Association) certification or RVIA/RVDA technician credentials. Ask for a written report with photos — verbal summaries are not sufficient for a significant purchase decision. A quality inspection takes two to four hours and should cover at least 150 inspection points across all major systems. Cost ranges: Pre-purchase inspections typically run $300 to $600 depending on coach type and size. Class A diesel pushers and large fifth wheels take longer and cost more. Safety inspections or annual check-ups run $150 to $300. Mobile inspectors can meet you at the seller location for a pre-purchase inspection, which is far more practical than asking the seller to drive the coach to a shop. This makes the process easier for everyone and ensures the inspection happens under real conditions.