EXTERNAL INSPECTION
GENERAL CONDITION OF THE OUTER SKIN :
● All walls should be straight and uniform in colour . Any changes in colour could indicate damage that has been repaired .
● Look for cracks at the corners of the windows , doors and storage cupboards .
● Check all doors open and close freely .
● Look along the lower edges , where the walls meet the floor , for signs of water damage .
● Examine the edges of all windows to ensure the sealant is still in good condition .
LOOK INSIDE ALL THE EXTERNAL STORAGE COMPARTMENTS :
● Open all external storage cupboards and look closely at all the walls and floor . Look for any discolouration that may indicate water ingress .
● There may be electrical wiring in these spaces so check that it has not been damaged .
● Check all locks operate freely including any locks on water tank caps .
USE A LADDER TO LOOK AT THE ROOF :
● Have a close look at all the seals around the edges of the roof where it meets the walls .
● Check the condition of the sealant around all the hatches and vents .
● Look for excessive warping of the roof skin . Some slight warping is normal , especially in hot weather .
● Remove the hood from the air-conditioner and check the condition of the heat exchanger coils .
● Look for signs of damage to the radiators . Excessive dust build-up on the coils may indicate the air-conditioner is in need of a service .
● Check the condition of the TV antenna . Ensure all wiring is in good condition .
CHECK ALL ATTACHMENTS :
● Ensure any additional storage boxes , rear bumpers , spare wheels and jerry can holders are all properly secured to the vehicle .
● Extend out the awning and ensure it operates correctly and that the material is in good condition .
FOR CAMPERS , POPTOPS AND FOLDOUT STYLE CAMPERS , CHECK CANVAS CONDITION :
● Ask the owner to show you how to fully erect the RV , noting the condition of the canvas , any zippers and poles .
● Once you ’ ve completed the inspection , ask to see how the unit is packed away .
● If the van or motorhome is fitted with a slide-out , have the owner extend and retract it .
CHECK THE CHASSIS :
UNDERNEATH INSPECTION
● All walls should be straight and uniform in colour . Any changes in colour could indicate damage that has been repaired .
● Look for cracks at the corners of the windows , doors and storage cupboards .
● Check all doors open and close freely .
● Look along the lower edges , where the walls meet the floor , for signs of water damage .
● Examine the edges of all windows to ensure the sealant is still in good condition .
CHECK THE SUSPENSION :
● Compare the appearance of both sides and look for any irregularities that may indicate damage .
● With leafsprings , look closely at the spring packs and check for signs of broken springs .
● Look for any movement in shock absorbers . Also , look for signs of leakage . Minor stone damage is to be expected but any major dents could mean repairs are required .
CHECK PLUMBING AND WIRING :
● Wiring should be neatly tucked up out of harm ’ s way . Look for breakages .
● Inspect gas lines and look for damage such as cracks or dents .
● Inspect the plumbing for signs of damage caused by driving on gravel roads .
● Fill the water tanks and check for signs of leakage .
DRAWBAR :
● Check the condition of the hitch . Off-road hitches should move freely at their pivot points .
● Check operation of the jockey wheel .
● Check gas bottles expiry dates .
● Turn on both gas bottles and check the operation of the regulator / selector .
All plumbing should be tucked away out of harm ’ s way . The owner of this van has added extra protection to all drain pipes
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