What a Real RV Pre-Purchase Inspection Actually Looks At (Detailed Checklist)

Why the dealer's "inspection" isn't enough

Most RV dealers offer some kind of pre-sale inspection. Most of those are 30-minute walk-throughs that don't catch real problems. A few dealers do thorough inspections, but the dealer has a financial interest in selling the rig - they're not the right party to objectively report on what's wrong.

A real pre-purchase inspection is independent. We work for the buyer, not the seller. We tell you what's wrong, even if it kills the deal. That's the whole point.

Most serious problems we find on PPIs are things the seller either doesn't know about (private sellers are often surprised) or didn't disclose (some dealers selectively forget). Either way, the buyer gets the truth.

Electrical inspection (15-30 minutes)

We test: shore power inlet condition (corrosion, looseness), shore cord and 30/50A adapters, panel breakers (each one tested), GFCI outlets (every one - they fail), converter output (voltage and amperage), inverter function (if equipped), battery condition (load test), 12V system (every fixture and outlet), 110V outlets (each one tested), and external generator interface.

Common findings: corroded shore cord ends ($245-$485 fix), failed GFCI outlets ($145-$245 each), converter at end of life ($585-$985 replacement), battery degradation, and miswired aftermarket additions (usually solar or backup-battery installs done DIY).

Plumbing inspection (20-30 minutes)

We pressure-test the water system at 50 PSI city water, then walk every fitting. We test: water pump (function, pressure, leaks), water heater (gas and electric, drain, anode rod), every faucet, toilet (seal integrity, flush, fill), shower, tank levels (fresh, gray, black), tank flush valve, accumulator if equipped, exterior shower if equipped, and tank vent.

Common findings: water heater scale buildup or leaks ($785-$1,450 replacement), failed pump check valve ($325-$525 replacement), PEX fitting drips, toilet seal failures ($385-$685 replacement), and tank sensor calibration issues.

HVAC inspection (15-25 minutes)

We test: every AC unit (rooftop and basement), capacitor microfarads, fan motors, thermostat function, supply-and-return temperatures, condensate drain, ducting integrity, furnace function, ignition and combustion, propane manifold pressure to the furnace, and heat pump function if equipped.

Common findings: fatigued capacitors ($185-$295 fix), worn fan motors ($325-$525), thermostat calibration drift, blocked condensate drains, and dirty AC coils.

Roof and exterior inspection (25-35 minutes)

We climb the roof. Every PPI includes a walk-the-roof inspection. We check: every penetration's Dicor sealant condition, every cap edge, every roof seam, AC unit gasket condition, vent and skylight seals, antenna mount, ladder mount, all roof-mounted accessories, structural integrity of the substrate (we walk the roof and feel for soft spots), and we use a Tramex moisture meter on suspect areas.

We also check the exterior: sidewall for delamination, window seals, slide-out seals, awning fabric and arms, wheel wells, frame, hitch (if applicable), and underbelly for damage or pest entry.

Common findings: cracked Dicor seals ($185-$485 fix), tired roof needing recoat ($1,850-$3,250), hidden water damage in the substrate ($585-$8,500+ depending on extent), delaminated sidewall panels ($1,250-$2,850 each), and torn awning fabric.

Slide-outs, appliances, and propane (30-40 minutes)

We test every slide-out fully. Function (deploys and retracts smoothly), rail alignment, motor sound, gear pack condition, seal integrity, slide topper condition, and any unusual noise or binding. We test every appliance: fridge (gas and electric mode, cooling cycle), microwave, range and oven (each burner, oven thermostat), washer-dryer if equipped, ice maker if equipped, and any built-in entertainment.

We test the propane system: regulator pressure (must be in spec), leak test on every fitting using electronic detector, OPD valve function, pigtail condition, and appliance manifold pressure.

Common findings: dying absorption fridge cooling unit ($1,850-$3,250 replacement), worn slide motor or gear pack ($385-$985), failed slide seals, regulator drift, OPD valve issues, and microwave ready for replacement.

The written report and what to do with it

Within 24 hours of the inspection, we email you a PDF report. The report includes: every system inspected (checklist), photos of all major findings, severity ratings (critical/major/minor/cosmetic), rough repair-cost estimates per issue, and our overall summary.

Use the report two ways. First, negotiate. If we found $5,000 in repairs needed, that's $5,000 off the asking price - or the seller fixes them before sale. Either way, the report gives you leverage. Second, walk if needed. If the inspection found hidden water damage or a dying cooling unit and the seller won't budge on price, you walk away $295-$495 lighter instead of $30,000+ lighter on a bad rig.

Got questions about your rig? Text a photo to (866) 437-4848 - one of us will take a look and tell you straight. - Earl