RV Inspection. What you need to know before you buy.

Welcome to another edition of Todd’s Two-Minute Tech Tip Tuesday, brought to you by the National RV Training Academy (NRVTA), the largest hands-on RV training academy in America. Today, we’re diving into a topic that can save you from major headaches and regret: RV inspections—do you really need them before buying? Spoiler alert: Yes, you do. Let’s explore why, with insights from certified RV inspectors Brenda and Dana.

Why Get an RV Inspection?

When purchasing an RV, especially from out of state, it’s essential to have a professional inspect it before you buy. The most common reason people hire inspectors is simple: they want to know what they don’t know. Buyers often find their dream RV in another state and need someone to physically check it before they make the trip and the purchase.

A certified inspector acts as your eyes and ears, providing a thorough and unbiased inspection. Whether you’re purchasing from a private seller or a dealership, an inspection will help you understand the true condition of the RV before committing.

Objectivity vs. Emotion

One of the biggest reasons for hiring an inspector is to remove emotion from the decision-making process. When people fall in love with an RV, they tend to overlook potential issues. Self-inspecting is like evaluating a relationship—you may ignore warning signs if you’re already emotionally invested. Certified inspectors, like Brenda and Dana, serve as an objective third party, pointing out problems without bias.

This objectivity can save you from future regret. It’s much easier to walk away from a potential problem before you buy than to face expensive repairs and frustration afterward.

The Benefits of a Dealership Inspection

For those buying from a dealership, an inspection can still be invaluable. Certified inspectors conduct more thorough inspections than a dealership’s Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI), which is often more generic. By identifying issues early, you can negotiate repairs before taking ownership, ensuring the RV is truly ready for use.

Brenda explains that a certified inspection means you don’t have to go through a Shakedown—the first trip where you often find things wrong with a new RV. A professional inspection identifies those issues beforehand, saving you precious camping time.

Certified Inspectors vs. Dealerships: No Conflict of Interest

Another key benefit of using a certified inspector is that they have no skin in the game. Unlike dealerships that may point out issues just to fix them, inspectors aren’t involved in the repair process. This neutrality means you get an honest report on what needs to be done without any sales tactics or incentives to upsell repair services.

NRVIA: A Seal of Trust and Ethics

One of the biggest advantages of hiring an NRVIA (National RV Inspectors Association) certified inspector is their strict code of ethics and comprehensive training. These inspectors undergo intensive training and are held to high standards. Their job is not just to check a box; they delve deep into the RV systems and components, often checking 500+ points of inspection on each RV. In larger models like diesel pushers, that number can reach 800-900 points.

What’s the difference between NRVIA-certified inspectors and others? It’s all about training. While some inspectors may claim to be qualified, the training through NRVIA is rigorous, covering every aspect of the RV’s functionality. Whether it’s the water heater or the electrical systems, they ensure every component operates as it should, providing you with peace of mind.

The Emotional Factor: Even Inspectors Hire Inspectors

Here’s a fun fact: Even seasoned inspectors like Brenda and Dana would consider hiring a third-party inspector if they were buying an RV for themselves. Why? Because even professionals need an objective opinion. When you’re emotionally attached, it’s hard to be unbiased, even if you know what to look for. That’s how critical it is to take the emotion out of the process.

How to Find a Certified RV Inspector

If you’re convinced of the need for a professional RV inspection (and you should be!), finding a certified inspector is easy. Visit the NRVIA website at nrvia.org, where you can access a locator map to find certified inspectors across the country.

In conclusion, an RV inspection is not just a recommendation—it’s a necessity for any potential buyer. The emotional detachment, thorough inspection, and objective reporting can save you from buyer’s remorse, costly repairs, and wasted time. Ensure your RV purchase is a sound one by hiring a trained, certified inspector.

Make your RV purchase with confidence by taking this critical step. Happy RVing!

Interested in learning more?
Visit nrvia.org to find your local certified RV inspector today!