Thank you, as I am a NRVIA inspector, you did a great job in explaining the reasons and and the cost of the inspections. There is a definite need for an inspection for both new and pre owned RVs.
Paid $800 last week for a C Class inspection by an NRVIA guy in south Jersey. Too many problems for a beginning RV older couple so we walked away from the deal. Quite pleased with the inspector…actually very pleased and will use him again if we can find an decent priced B Class.
Hi Stephen. It sounds like that RV inspection saved you a lot more money than the price of the inspection. And I'm glad that you were able to spot the RV money pit and avoid it. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
I enjoy watching your videos. I'm going to be homeless soon and have an old car that's small. So I've been saving what I can to buy an RV or a short bus. I believe in getting an inspection. Now I have to save for that.😔 It's hard enough living on SS but I believe it will happen. Thank you.
Hi Mary. I hope you find the perfect RV for your needs soon. And I'm glad that my videos are helpful as you learn more about RV life. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for sharing your experience Charles. Usually those that hire a certified RV inspector are very glad that they did afterward. Especially on a rig of that size and complexity. Enjoy your new DP!
Thank you! I had listened to this episode before but forgot about it. I am in the process of purchasing a travel trailer. I contacted the inspector . Appointment set up ! you are a jewel!
Good for you! Getting an RV inspection before making the purchase is one of the smartest things you can do to make sure that you have a pleasant buying experience and get a good RV. Have safe and happy RV travels!
When I bought my RV a few months ago, and used a non-certified inspector. Cost me around $400, and it was a complete rip off. I found all kinds of little issues that they missed that I feel like should’ve been easily caught if they knew what they were doing
I hear the same story from lots of other RV buyers. And unfortunately those kind of cheap inspectors harm the reputation of legitimate certified RV inspectors who do the job right. That's one reason why I felt this video was needed. Thanks for watching and sharing your experience with us!
It depends on what the inspectors in your area charge. But I would say that an inspection of a travel trailer is most often less than that. But it's well worth the money if you want to be sure you don't have any hidden problems that could cost you serious money. Thanks for watching and I hope you find the perfect RV for your needs!
Great advice! As I am learning about all that entails in acquiring an RV, an inspection by an NRVIA will be top of my list in buying. Not being mechanically handy, it will be important to me to have this done.
Hi Debra. I'm glad to hear that you appreciate the value of an RV inspection. Most RV buyers do not see that value and many of them experience unnecessary problems after taking their RV home that take a long time to resolve. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the subject here!
Good morning. Thank you very much for this video. I do have few questions, if I may. 1. Is your work guaranteed? 2. Besides finding problems with an RV, are you reliable, legally, if something is forgotten during the inspection. 3. I would not hire a technician who does not have the proper insurance coverage, are you or do you need proper insurance coverage? And lastly, more a suggestion than a question, many mortgage lenders will often require a home inspection. RV lenders should require the same thing? Thank you for sharing with us these greats tips and important information. Thank you for raising awareness. Continue your great work. I wish you a wonderful day.
Those are good questions Michael. Let me answer them by number: (1) An RV inspection does not come with any warranty or guarantee either expressed or implied (at least mine doesn't). It is simply a snapshot of the overall condition of the RV at the time the inspector went through it. There are far too many hidden parts of an RV that cannot be physically inspected to be able to guarantee the RV as a whole. (2) I personally state on the inspection contract between me and my customers that they agree not to hold me liable for issues that were not found during the inspection. That contract must be signed before I begin work. (3) All of the RV inspectors I know carry liability insurance that covers anything that is accidentally broken on the RV during the inspection. Also, some inspectors go a step further and carry Errors and Omissions insurance that will cover problems that were not caught during the inspection process. I am not aware of home inspectors that provide a guarantee on homes that they inspect. And the same is true of RV inspectors. If we had to warranty the RV itself, the cost of the inspection would be many thousands more as it would essentially become a service contract at that point. I hope that helps.
Errors and omissions insurance usually only covers the cost of the inspection. Not much help. If I missed something big, I'll refund the cost of the inspection out of courtesy. This has only happened to me once, and it was a trashed engine. I do not have the tools to diagnose a diesel motor and I inform my inspection customers of that and recommend a couple of local diesel shops that can go over the motor. The buyers that do usually find something, so its a good policy. All I do is smell the fluids and look for smoke on start and when running. I have a diesel scanner, but it only shows current codes, not history. I find most buyers won't even wait for a fluid analysis. This particular couple were on a tight timeframe. They moved out of their rental house and were enroute to Texas where he had a job building wind turbines. They skipped the diesel inspection and broke down within 500 miles. A $1000 tow bill to a Cummins shop to discover that the motor had been run while over heated. And this wasn't some old junker. It was a beautiful Monaco Dynasty PDQ40. Even though I did not inspect the motor and the buyer ignored my advise to get it done, I gave them there money back.
@@jerryplante4239 Thank you very much Jerry for this important information about having the engine checked by diesel technicians. Very valuable. You were truly professional and if I had not followed your advice, I would not have asked to be refunded by you. You were not at fault here. I wish you continued success with your business.
I will add that RV inspections don't cover engine issues on a motorhome, nor do they test drive them. Also, because the lenders want to close the loans they aren't as concerned about requiring an inspection since it's a much shorter loan period over a mortgage. I hope that helps.
I am in the process currently of educating myself on what to look for in buying a good used RV and glad l watched your video l. I will definitely be hiring a certified RV inspector. Thanks
That would be a very smart move. Most of the complaints you see online about RVs they bought could have been resolved much more easily and quickly if the buyers had used the services of an NRVIA certified inspector. Thanks for watching!
I bought a new Thor Magnitude and since it was new, I thought I could get by with a Thor warranty plus an extended warranty. Being that it was new and the dealer charged me for their own inspection, I skipped having an independent RV inspection. I was wrong. I would never buy another RV, new or old, without an inspection from a certified inspector.
Thanks for sharing your experience with us Robert. RV dealers have started charging for their PDI now as they see it as another profit stream. Unfortunately, what they call a PDI is often extremely poor at best. So I would simply refuse to pay for something that they should be doing anyway as part of their cost of doing business. And if they balk at that, I would find another dealer to work with.
@@RVInspectionAndCare I greatly appreciate all the info in this video and in your comments - I'm learning a lot and I'm thrilled! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!
I highly recommend that anyone who is considering purchasing an Rv, have it inspected by a certified NRVIA INSPECTOR, it saved me over $100K! It does not make sense that a new RV cannot be inspected by the factory while on the assembly line before it comes to a dealership. Happy RVing everyone!
For me it's worth around $1K+ to know from top-to-bottom, inside & out, exactly what shape my chosen RV is in, not only for renegotiating the price for repairs if my heart is still set on it, but to know when to walk away if it does turn out to be a money pit. Would the average NRVIA 27-35ft 5th wheel inspection run that much or lower?
Yes Celeste, I think that you would have little trouble finding a certified RV inspector that would be willing to fully inspect a 5th wheel for you at that price or maybe even less. And you mention a great point in that the inspection may actually save you many more thousands of dollars by helping you see the need to walk away from an RV money pit before you get in too deep. Good point!
Very often that is the case. RV shows are usually held in populated areas and that is also where you tend to find more RV inspectors. Just visit nrvia.org and select "Find An Inspector". Then you can view all of the local inspectors on the map there and contact them about their availability. Any certified NRVIA inspector has the necessary training to provide a top quality RV inspection for you. I usually recommend choosing the one that you feel most comfortable with.
They claim that it is a very thorough inspection. But there is no way to tell for sure. And I'm not inclined to just take their word for it. So I recommend hiring an RV inspector even when buying from CA just to be sure that you know what you're getting.
RV inspection is just as important as a home appraisal or taking a used car to a mechanic before purchasing. I agree with your point but not with the example between paying for inspection and repair being equal to just the inspection. Just the inspection should not cost as much as the diagnosis AND repair. There’s a popular TH-cam inspection couple where the guy was PO’d when asked for the written report! He feels a phone call telling the customer the problems were sufficient.
Actually the NRVIA has done away with Level 1 and Level 2 designations. Now all inspectors that have completed the entire training course is considered certified by their organization. So if you find an inspector on their map that is in your area, that means they are certified to handle your inspection.
We are paying for a inspection before taking delivery i suppose some dealerships would send it out with problems. The one i see that is a no no is Camping World with free home delivery yeah sure buy it online and have it arrive at ur house lol.
@@larrytanton5787 they don't do a comprehensive inspection the way an NRVIA certified inspector does, nor do they give you a report of maybe up to 100 pages with at least 70 photos. Camping World and other places that plan to charge for the PDI, should give their customers the option or having them do it or hiring an inspector. IMO Glad you've already made the wise choice.
Looking for our 1st used rv. We would like a full inspection but have seen 3 Grand Design rvs but we don't get passed the roof. My husband notice bubbling on TPO is this normal cuz a dealer said even new ones have bubbles.
This is a good question. RV inspectors face this question a lot. Many rubber roofs these days, even brand new ones, are prone to bubbling especially in the wind as the RV goes down the highway. When we call it out on the RV inspection, the manufacturers all tell us that it's ok and nothing to be overly concerned about. My thought is that if it bothers you I wouldn't accept it that way. But if you do accept it, be sure to contact the builder and ask them what they have to say and record that you did so. Then if there are problems later on, you can prove that you asked about it and were told it was fine. I hope that helps.
@RVInspectionAndCare we are looking for used pre covid, so usually purchasing w/o warranty and from im aware of warranty doesn't follow if we're not original owners. So we are confused about this issue. Thanks for your time.
@@eliacastilleja301 The factory warranty for new RVs is no longer in force after about a year has passed in most cases. But you can get an extended warranty, or service contract, for any newer used RV by visiting wholesalewarranties.com And in many cases a service warranty that you buy from them is transferable to another owner if you sell the RV.
Just visit nrvia.org and select "Find An Inspector". Then you can view all of the local inspectors on the map there and contact them about their availability. Any certified NRVIA inspector has the necessary training to provide a top quality RV inspection for you. I usually recommend choosing the one that you feel most comfortable with. I hope that helps.
I am not aware of any specific forms for that purpose, but you can make a small down payment on the RV and write on the receipt that sale is contingent on what is found during the RV inspection and get it signed by yourself and the seller. Many have done that and had success. I hope that helps.
That's a good rule to have Linda. Right now, it's your best defense against being sold an RV that will be an unnecessary waste of time and money. Thanks for watching!
Certified RV inspectors can visually inspect the chassis and drivetrain components and do a ride-along to listen for problems. But they are not typically mechanics that specialize in those kind of components. For that, you should either hire a qualified mechanic or perform a fluid analysis on the drivetrain to verify the real shape it's in. Many people opt for the fluid analysis.
New to RV and doing LOADS of research on Class C, 26-33 ft. Looking for a mechanically solid (great slide system, properly plumbed, and quality mechanicsl components AC, refer, etc.) Is there a list of recommended manufacturers/models to help narrow down the search? Thanks for the great videos and content!
I produce a new Class C and used Class C buying guide to the better built brands that I feel are the best places to begin in a search for Class C RVs. But I focus entirely on build quality and customer service from the brands that I recommend. And I don't agree with some of the prevailing recommendations out there now that a certain type of refrigerator, air conditioner, slide system or roofing material should be avoided if you want a quality RV. To me, the level of attention to detail in constructing an RV is far more important. So if that makes sense to you, here is the link to my Class C buying guides - payhip.com/b/WCwf7 (new Class Cs) and payhip.com/b/2hzk3 (used Class Cs).
I have a question: I called a dealer in TX about a 2022 Dutch Star that interested me. When I asked about having an inspection done, he said it's not a problem but that the inspector would have to put them on his/her insurance before being allowed to conduct the inspection. He stated it's because the coach is a consignment sale and they will not let an inspector begin operating systems without the dealership being covered. Is this common and do NRVIA inspectors carry this type of coverage? I'm enjoying your content and have learned quite a bit in the last few weeks. Cheers!
All certified NRVIA inspectors are supposed to have insurance coverage for the work they do on RVs. Most likely the local inspector will be able to provide the dealership with a copy of their insurance coverage as proof of that. If the dealer keeps balking and makes the inspection nearly impossible to complete, you should consider whether that indicates an interest in your satisfaction in the buying process or not.
Hello, Great vid with plenty of great suggestions. So, I have my eyes on a unit at a dealer which I get professionally inspected. The inspector gives me a list of findings that need addressing. Am I to assume the dealer/mechanic will address everything whether it's new or used? What about a private sale?
Hi John. Always be sure that the seller, whether it is a dealer or a private owner, will agree to a full 3rd party inspection before the actual purchase of the RV. If they say no, I personally would not do business with them as they clearly do not have your best interests in mind. But if they say yes, have the inspection performed. Then you can use the problems found by the inspector as a bargaining tool to lower the price further or request that the owner or dealer make the repairs themselves. But don't forget to verify that the repairs were made satisfactorily before taking ownership of the RV if they choose to do it themselves.
Unfortunately, it doesn't seem many of the RVIA certified inspectors in my area know much about Lithium systems in Class Bs. This is one of the highest cost, newest and most misused systems in the newer Class Bs. Doesn't seem useful to pay a high price for an inspection (or a used RV) if this cannot be addressed. Yes...I contacted, and asked, all that were listed in about a 50mi radius of my location. I also contacted some mobile techs in my area and only 1 said they support lithium systems...and no specific system was acknowledged.
I'm sorry to hear about your problem with finding inspectors and techs in your area that are knowledgeable about lithium battery systems. You might try going to nrvia.org and find the number to call them about what you're experiencing. Maybe they have a recommendation that could be helpful. BYW, I appreciate that the battery system is something that you want to get inspected, but I wouldn't avoid an RV inspection just because that was not done to the degree that you want. There are lots of other systems on Class Bs that need to be inspected as well to be sure that you aren't buying a problem RV. For instance, many Class Bs have advanced electronics in them that can be problematic. So my advice is the old adage "Don't throw the baby out with the bath water."
A travel trailer is an RV so it can be inspected by an RV inspector too. As I mentioned in the video, the cost for an RV inspection can vary depending on the kind of RV it is, and the size and complexity of the unit as well.
Yes it's normal to require payment in advance. That has always been my policy. If it's a certified NRVIA inspector, you will most likely feel that the money spent was well worth it.
Better question? How much does a mobile RV repairman charge? They charge way to much and the seniors on fixed incomes suffer the most. It appears they want to get rich in a month. The price should regulated and made fair.
Some mobile RV techs may charge quite a bit depending on where they are located. But in my travels across the country, I have found them to be mostly fair in what they charge. RV repair facilities certainly aren't cheap either but then lots of things are much more expensive than they were. And mobile techs have to also cover the time spent driving in between jobs whereas repair facilities do not have that issue. All in all, I am OK with what mobile techs have charged me in the past and I have used quite a few of them in various places.
Hi Ben. I like to use Dicor self-leveling LAP sealant for horizontal roof seams - amzn.to/43ftRZd and I like to use GeoCel ProFlex for vertical applications - amzn.to/41ZLvPL I hope that helps.
@@bengregory2322 I'm not sure about canvas, but here is an article I wrote about RV awning care that may be helpful - rvinspectionandcare.com/rv-awning-care/
Hi Sean. At this point I don't have a stand-alone inspection guide to offer. Instead, the full inspection guide and checklist is included in my guidebook for buying new RVs. You can take a look at it here - payhip.com/b/OZrEw
There are websites that other inspectors have with checklists, however, the list doesn't explain how to do some of the tests, like Delta T or propane leaks, it doesn't say what you should be looking for nor what is or isn't an issue. NRVIA inspectors have a thorough checklist but also the training to go along with it. I hope that helps.
I’m just new to hearing about RVIA Inspectors and wow- they’ll spend 8 hours looking the Rv over . That’s really something- and you’ll get a report In Hsnd, documenting the finds. For like $1200 ? Then, what, will I buy an after market warranty - if it’s a used RV . I wish they had a list of those businesses that would do warranty work on used Rvs . They are hard to find. Men can fix stuff but older women would like this service because we buy Rvs too. But aren’t doing repair work. On the other hand, if buying a new one- Well I have the placard at the door RVIA and a number that goes with it- is that NOT proof it’s been gone over already by an RVIA inspector ? So this should have already been done - but too often there is still problems to discover after buying ! So do we get a free Re-Inspection by these RVIA technicians to our homes for free ? Also, that placard costs us about $400 on the cost sheet, so if it isn’t truly inspected. . . This is a farce
If you want to get a service contract, or what some call an extended warranty to protect against high dollar RV repairs, I highly recommend visiting wholesalewarranties.com to see what they have to offer. A lot of fulltime RVers are happy with their offerings. As for the RVIA (RV Industry Association), it is an organization that sets certain RV construction standards for the industry. So when you have that seal on your RV, it simply means that the RV has been built in accord with the standards that RVIA has set, but does not mean that it has been inspected thoroughly. And the organization that certifies RV inspectors is the NRVIA (National RV Inspectors Association) It is completely different from the RVIA, and if you choose to have an RV inspected before purchase I highly recommend using one of their certified inspectors to do the job. I hope that helps.
Typically an NRVIA certified inspector will go on a drive along with you and observe how the engine, transmission, brakes, etc. perform. And they will look underneath for any signs of unusual leaks. But they are not usually mechanics and can't offer assistance beyond observation. And that's why I recommend getting a fluid analysis on all the drivetrain fluids like engine oil and coolant, and transmission fluid too. That report will often tell you more about the true internal shape of the drivetrain than anything else you can do. I hope that helps.
Absolutely. New RVs can often have serious issues that many RV dealers are not fixing before they sell them. The only protection you have as an RV buyer to hire an unbiased 3rd party RV inspector to verify the condition of the RV and then get those issues fixed before taking delivery of the RV.
Good question. Due to insurance liability they will not drive the RV. But they will ride along as either you or someone you approve of drives the RV. And they will listen and watch for anything that doesn't appear to be right.
RVs are a lot more complicated than an average home since they are designed to be mobile. But if you feel that paying for an RV inspection isn't worth the money, then don't. But don't complain when you find the RV you just bought has serious hidden issues that will cost you much more than the expense of an inspection. That happens a lot.
@@HighCrimesMisdemeanors Clearly you didn't listen to what I said in the video. Watch it again and you'll see that I said that travel trailers are the cheapest inspection you can get for much less than $1000. And once again, if you don't think that spending the extra to get an RV inspected is worth it, that's just fine. You can join the majority of RV buyers who blindly buy an RV without knowing hardly anything about it. The choice is yours.
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Thank you, as I am a NRVIA inspector, you did a great job in explaining the reasons and and the cost of the inspections. There is a definite need for an inspection for both new and pre owned RVs.
Hi fellow inspector! I'm glad that you enjoyed the video. Thanks for leaving some positive feedback too!
Paid $800 last week for a C Class inspection by an NRVIA guy in south Jersey. Too many problems for a beginning RV older couple so we walked away from the deal. Quite pleased with the inspector…actually very pleased and will use him again if we can find an decent priced B Class.
Hi Stephen. It sounds like that RV inspection saved you a lot more money than the price of the inspection. And I'm glad that you were able to spot the RV money pit and avoid it. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
I enjoy watching your videos. I'm going to be homeless soon and have an old car that's small. So I've been saving what I can to buy an RV or a short bus. I believe in getting an inspection. Now I have to save for that.😔 It's hard enough living on SS but I believe it will happen. Thank you.
Hi Mary. I hope you find the perfect RV for your needs soon. And I'm glad that my videos are helpful as you learn more about RV life. Thanks for watching!
We just paid about $1300 for a nine hour full inspection on a 45 foot DP. Well worth it.
Thanks for sharing your experience Charles. Usually those that hire a certified RV inspector are very glad that they did afterward. Especially on a rig of that size and complexity. Enjoy your new DP!
Thank you! I had listened to this episode before but forgot about it. I am in the process of purchasing a travel trailer. I contacted the inspector . Appointment set up ! you are a jewel!
Good for you! Getting an RV inspection before making the purchase is one of the smartest things you can do to make sure that you have a pleasant buying experience and get a good RV. Have safe and happy RV travels!
When I bought my RV a few months ago, and used a non-certified inspector. Cost me around $400, and it was a complete rip off. I found all kinds of little issues that they missed that I feel like should’ve been easily caught if they knew what they were doing
I hear the same story from lots of other RV buyers. And unfortunately those kind of cheap inspectors harm the reputation of legitimate certified RV inspectors who do the job right. That's one reason why I felt this video was needed. Thanks for watching and sharing your experience with us!
Got what you payed for sure, figured first clue would’ve been “ not certified “🤷🏼♂️
thank you makes sense we are looking for about 24 ft travel trailer. you get what you pay for im guess around 1000. again thank you
It depends on what the inspectors in your area charge. But I would say that an inspection of a travel trailer is most often less than that. But it's well worth the money if you want to be sure you don't have any hidden problems that could cost you serious money. Thanks for watching and I hope you find the perfect RV for your needs!
Great advice! As I am learning about all that entails in acquiring an RV, an inspection by an NRVIA will be top of my list in buying. Not being mechanically handy, it will be important to me to have this done.
Hi Debra. I'm glad to hear that you appreciate the value of an RV inspection. Most RV buyers do not see that value and many of them experience unnecessary problems after taking their RV home that take a long time to resolve. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the subject here!
Thanks Dwayne for enlightening the RV community.
Blue Ox RV Inspection 🤙
Hi Pierre. I'm glad that you found the video content to be helpful for RVers. Thanks for watching and leaving some positive feedback!
You've always done a great job and we appreciate your time involved for content needed 🤙
Good morning. Thank you very much for this video. I do have few questions, if I may.
1. Is your work guaranteed?
2. Besides finding problems with an RV, are you reliable, legally, if something is forgotten during the inspection.
3. I would not hire a technician who does not have the proper insurance coverage, are you or do you need proper insurance coverage?
And lastly, more a suggestion than a question, many mortgage lenders will often require a home inspection. RV lenders should require the same thing?
Thank you for sharing with us these greats tips and important information. Thank you for raising awareness.
Continue your great work. I wish you a wonderful day.
Those are good questions Michael. Let me answer them by number: (1) An RV inspection does not come with any warranty or guarantee either expressed or implied (at least mine doesn't). It is simply a snapshot of the overall condition of the RV at the time the inspector went through it. There are far too many hidden parts of an RV that cannot be physically inspected to be able to guarantee the RV as a whole. (2) I personally state on the inspection contract between me and my customers that they agree not to hold me liable for issues that were not found during the inspection. That contract must be signed before I begin work. (3) All of the RV inspectors I know carry liability insurance that covers anything that is accidentally broken on the RV during the inspection. Also, some inspectors go a step further and carry Errors and Omissions insurance that will cover problems that were not caught during the inspection process.
I am not aware of home inspectors that provide a guarantee on homes that they inspect. And the same is true of RV inspectors. If we had to warranty the RV itself, the cost of the inspection would be many thousands more as it would essentially become a service contract at that point.
I hope that helps.
Thank you very much for your quick and very satisfying response. It's greatly appreciated.
Errors and omissions insurance usually only covers the cost of the inspection. Not much help. If I missed something big, I'll refund the cost of the inspection out of courtesy. This has only happened to me once, and it was a trashed engine. I do not have the tools to diagnose a diesel motor and I inform my inspection customers of that and recommend a couple of local diesel shops that can go over the motor. The buyers that do usually find something, so its a good policy. All I do is smell the fluids and look for smoke on start and when running. I have a diesel scanner, but it only shows current codes, not history. I find most buyers won't even wait for a fluid analysis.
This particular couple were on a tight timeframe. They moved out of their rental house and were enroute to Texas where he had a job building wind turbines. They skipped the diesel inspection and broke down within 500 miles. A $1000 tow bill to a Cummins shop to discover that the motor had been run while over heated. And this wasn't some old junker. It was a beautiful Monaco Dynasty PDQ40.
Even though I did not inspect the motor and the buyer ignored my advise to get it done, I gave them there money back.
@@jerryplante4239 Thank you very much Jerry for this important information about having the engine checked by diesel technicians. Very valuable. You were truly professional and if I had not followed your advice, I would not have asked to be refunded by you. You were not at fault here. I wish you continued success with your business.
I will add that RV inspections don't cover engine issues on a motorhome, nor do they test drive them. Also, because the lenders want to close the loans they aren't as concerned about requiring an inspection since it's a much shorter loan period over a mortgage. I hope that helps.
I am in the process currently of educating myself on what to look for in buying a good used RV and glad l watched your video l. I will definitely be hiring a certified RV inspector. Thanks
That would be a very smart move. Most of the complaints you see online about RVs they bought could have been resolved much more easily and quickly if the buyers had used the services of an NRVIA certified inspector. Thanks for watching!
I bought a new Thor Magnitude and since it was new, I thought I could get by with a Thor warranty plus an extended warranty. Being that it was new and the dealer charged me for their own inspection, I skipped having an independent RV inspection. I was wrong. I would never buy another RV, new or old, without an inspection from a certified inspector.
Thanks for sharing your experience with us Robert. RV dealers have started charging for their PDI now as they see it as another profit stream. Unfortunately, what they call a PDI is often extremely poor at best. So I would simply refuse to pay for something that they should be doing anyway as part of their cost of doing business. And if they balk at that, I would find another dealer to work with.
@@RVInspectionAndCare As old as I get, I still live and learn. I completely agree with you that an independent inspection is well worth the money.
@@RVInspectionAndCare I greatly appreciate all the info in this video and in your comments - I'm learning a lot and I'm thrilled! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!!
Do you mind sharing what they charged for the PDI?
@@lauravictorious4670 Certainly.......$1250.00
Great information.. totally agree with your perspective on this
Glad to hear it. Thanks for providing some positive feedback Ricky. It's much appreciated!
I highly recommend that anyone who is considering purchasing an Rv, have it inspected by a certified NRVIA INSPECTOR, it saved me over $100K! It does not make sense that a new RV cannot be inspected by the factory while on the assembly line before it comes to a dealership.
Happy RVing everyone!
Thanks so much for sharing your experience with us here. It will be very helpful for others. Safe and happy RV travels to you!
Thank you Sir, appreciate your message. 🙏🙏🙏
I'm glad you enjoyed this video Reuben. Thanks for leaving such a nice comment!
Great information. Thanks Don
Glad to hear you enjoyed it Don. And thanks again for your support of the channel!
For me it's worth around $1K+ to know from top-to-bottom, inside & out, exactly what shape my chosen RV is in, not only for renegotiating the price for repairs if my heart is still set on it, but to know when to walk away if it does turn out to be a money pit. Would the average NRVIA 27-35ft 5th wheel inspection run that much or lower?
Yes Celeste, I think that you would have little trouble finding a certified RV inspector that would be willing to fully inspect a 5th wheel for you at that price or maybe even less. And you mention a great point in that the inspection may actually save you many more thousands of dollars by helping you see the need to walk away from an RV money pit before you get in too deep. Good point!
Hello, do RV shows have inspectors near by??
Very often that is the case. RV shows are usually held in populated areas and that is also where you tend to find more RV inspectors. Just visit nrvia.org and select "Find An Inspector". Then you can view all of the local inspectors on the map there and contact them about their availability. Any certified NRVIA inspector has the necessary training to provide a top quality RV inspection for you. I usually recommend choosing the one that you feel most comfortable with.
What type of Inspection does Cruise America do for their resales?
They claim that it is a very thorough inspection. But there is no way to tell for sure. And I'm not inclined to just take their word for it. So I recommend hiring an RV inspector even when buying from CA just to be sure that you know what you're getting.
RV inspection is just as important as a home appraisal or taking a used car to a mechanic before purchasing. I agree with your point but not with the example between paying for inspection and repair being equal to just the inspection. Just the inspection should not cost as much as the diagnosis AND repair. There’s a popular TH-cam inspection couple where the guy was PO’d when asked for the written report! He feels a phone call telling the customer the problems were sufficient.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts with us here.
What level inspector do you recommend for a class A?
Actually the NRVIA has done away with Level 1 and Level 2 designations. Now all inspectors that have completed the entire training course is considered certified by their organization. So if you find an inspector on their map that is in your area, that means they are certified to handle your inspection.
We are paying for a inspection before taking delivery i suppose some dealerships would send it out with problems. The one i see that is a no no is Camping World with free home delivery yeah sure buy it online and have it arrive at ur house lol.
Good point. How do you know that any pre-delivery inspection of any kind has even taken place?
@@RVInspectionAndCare We don't know but by golly if having to pay for it they should do it
@@larrytanton5787 they don't do a comprehensive inspection the way an NRVIA certified inspector does, nor do they give you a report of maybe up to 100 pages with at least 70 photos. Camping World and other places that plan to charge for the PDI, should give their customers the option or having them do it or hiring an inspector. IMO Glad you've already made the wise choice.
Looking for our 1st used rv. We would like a full inspection but have seen 3 Grand Design rvs but we don't get passed the roof. My husband notice bubbling on TPO is this normal cuz a dealer said even new ones have bubbles.
This is a good question. RV inspectors face this question a lot. Many rubber roofs these days, even brand new ones, are prone to bubbling especially in the wind as the RV goes down the highway. When we call it out on the RV inspection, the manufacturers all tell us that it's ok and nothing to be overly concerned about. My thought is that if it bothers you I wouldn't accept it that way. But if you do accept it, be sure to contact the builder and ask them what they have to say and record that you did so. Then if there are problems later on, you can prove that you asked about it and were told it was fine. I hope that helps.
@RVInspectionAndCare we are looking for used pre covid, so usually purchasing w/o warranty and from im aware of warranty doesn't follow if we're not original owners. So we are confused about this issue. Thanks for your time.
@@eliacastilleja301 The factory warranty for new RVs is no longer in force after about a year has passed in most cases. But you can get an extended warranty, or service contract, for any newer used RV by visiting wholesalewarranties.com And in many cases a service warranty that you buy from them is transferable to another owner if you sell the RV.
Thanks - any referrals for a top notch inspector in the SF Bay Area? I am not buying a new or used one unless an inspector takes a look at it first
Just visit nrvia.org and select "Find An Inspector". Then you can view all of the local inspectors on the map there and contact them about their availability. Any certified NRVIA inspector has the necessary training to provide a top quality RV inspection for you. I usually recommend choosing the one that you feel most comfortable with. I hope that helps.
Thanks for the presentation. Are there forms you can use to make your offer to the seller that have a inspection contingency?
I am not aware of any specific forms for that purpose, but you can make a small down payment on the RV and write on the receipt that sale is contingent on what is found during the RV inspection and get it signed by yourself and the seller. Many have done that and had success. I hope that helps.
I wouldn’t buy an RV without an inspection!!
That's a good rule to have Linda. Right now, it's your best defense against being sold an RV that will be an unnecessary waste of time and money. Thanks for watching!
Are Forest River 2022 2023 sunseeker class c 4x4 are they a quality RV
Hi David. Unfortunately, Forest River is not on my recommended list of RV brands to buy. Thanks for watching!
Is the inspection for only the housing part or is it for the chassis as well. Engine, brakes, tranny, etc. Thank you
Certified RV inspectors can visually inspect the chassis and drivetrain components and do a ride-along to listen for problems. But they are not typically mechanics that specialize in those kind of components. For that, you should either hire a qualified mechanic or perform a fluid analysis on the drivetrain to verify the real shape it's in. Many people opt for the fluid analysis.
New to RV and doing LOADS of research on Class C, 26-33 ft.
Looking for a mechanically solid (great slide system, properly plumbed, and quality mechanicsl components AC, refer, etc.)
Is there a list of recommended manufacturers/models to help narrow down the search?
Thanks for the great videos and content!
I produce a new Class C and used Class C buying guide to the better built brands that I feel are the best places to begin in a search for Class C RVs. But I focus entirely on build quality and customer service from the brands that I recommend. And I don't agree with some of the prevailing recommendations out there now that a certain type of refrigerator, air conditioner, slide system or roofing material should be avoided if you want a quality RV. To me, the level of attention to detail in constructing an RV is far more important. So if that makes sense to you, here is the link to my Class C buying guides - payhip.com/b/WCwf7 (new Class Cs) and payhip.com/b/2hzk3 (used Class Cs).
@RVInspectionAndCare Thank you, and I will definitely check the course out.
Love the content and info you bring to the community!
@@71dogmata Thanks for the positive feedbacl!
I have a question: I called a dealer in TX about a 2022 Dutch Star that interested me. When I asked about having an inspection done, he said it's not a problem but that the inspector would have to put them on his/her insurance before being allowed to conduct the inspection. He stated it's because the coach is a consignment sale and they will not let an inspector begin operating systems without the dealership being covered. Is this common and do NRVIA inspectors carry this type of coverage?
I'm enjoying your content and have learned quite a bit in the last few weeks. Cheers!
All certified NRVIA inspectors are supposed to have insurance coverage for the work they do on RVs. Most likely the local inspector will be able to provide the dealership with a copy of their insurance coverage as proof of that. If the dealer keeps balking and makes the inspection nearly impossible to complete, you should consider whether that indicates an interest in your satisfaction in the buying process or not.
Hello, Great vid with plenty of great suggestions. So, I have my eyes on a unit at a dealer which I get professionally inspected. The inspector gives me a list of findings that need addressing. Am I to assume the dealer/mechanic will address everything whether it's new or used? What about a private sale?
Hi John. Always be sure that the seller, whether it is a dealer or a private owner, will agree to a full 3rd party inspection before the actual purchase of the RV. If they say no, I personally would not do business with them as they clearly do not have your best interests in mind. But if they say yes, have the inspection performed. Then you can use the problems found by the inspector as a bargaining tool to lower the price further or request that the owner or dealer make the repairs themselves. But don't forget to verify that the repairs were made satisfactorily before taking ownership of the RV if they choose to do it themselves.
Unfortunately, it doesn't seem many of the RVIA certified inspectors in my area know much about Lithium systems in Class Bs. This is one of the highest cost, newest and most misused systems in the newer Class Bs. Doesn't seem useful to pay a high price for an inspection (or a used RV) if this cannot be addressed. Yes...I contacted, and asked, all that were listed in about a 50mi radius of my location. I also contacted some mobile techs in my area and only 1 said they support lithium systems...and no specific system was acknowledged.
I'm sorry to hear about your problem with finding inspectors and techs in your area that are knowledgeable about lithium battery systems. You might try going to nrvia.org and find the number to call them about what you're experiencing. Maybe they have a recommendation that could be helpful. BYW, I appreciate that the battery system is something that you want to get inspected, but I wouldn't avoid an RV inspection just because that was not done to the degree that you want. There are lots of other systems on Class Bs that need to be inspected as well to be sure that you aren't buying a problem RV. For instance, many Class Bs have advanced electronics in them that can be problematic. So my advice is the old adage "Don't throw the baby out with the bath water."
Is a RV inspection different from a travel trailer inspection? Is the cost different?
A travel trailer is an RV so it can be inspected by an RV inspector too. As I mentioned in the video, the cost for an RV inspection can vary depending on the kind of RV it is, and the size and complexity of the unit as well.
Is it normal for the inspector to take payment before they start or after they have completed the inspection?
Yes it's normal to require payment in advance. That has always been my policy. If it's a certified NRVIA inspector, you will most likely feel that the money spent was well worth it.
Better question? How much does a mobile RV repairman charge? They charge way to much and the seniors on fixed incomes suffer the most. It appears they want to get rich in a month. The price should regulated and made fair.
Some mobile RV techs may charge quite a bit depending on where they are located. But in my travels across the country, I have found them to be mostly fair in what they charge. RV repair facilities certainly aren't cheap either but then lots of things are much more expensive than they were. And mobile techs have to also cover the time spent driving in between jobs whereas repair facilities do not have that issue. All in all, I am OK with what mobile techs have charged me in the past and I have used quite a few of them in various places.
What is the best caulking to use for redoing all areas that need to be redone on my tent trailer?
Hi Ben. I like to use Dicor self-leveling LAP sealant for horizontal roof seams - amzn.to/43ftRZd and I like to use GeoCel ProFlex for vertical applications - amzn.to/41ZLvPL I hope that helps.
@RV Inspection And Care Thank you Sir, appreciate it.
@@RVInspectionAndCare also what is the best method for removing mold/stains from canvas? Appreciate your time.
@@bengregory2322 I'm not sure about canvas, but here is an article I wrote about RV awning care that may be helpful - rvinspectionandcare.com/rv-awning-care/
@@RVInspectionAndCare Thank you again.
Dwayne,
Is there a RV inspection check list that an RV owner can use to do a self inspection of their rig?
Hi Sean. At this point I don't have a stand-alone inspection guide to offer. Instead, the full inspection guide and checklist is included in my guidebook for buying new RVs. You can take a look at it here - payhip.com/b/OZrEw
There are websites that other inspectors have with checklists, however, the list doesn't explain how to do some of the tests, like Delta T or propane leaks, it doesn't say what you should be looking for nor what is or isn't an issue. NRVIA inspectors have a thorough checklist but also the training to go along with it. I hope that helps.
I’m just new to hearing about RVIA Inspectors and wow- they’ll spend 8 hours looking the Rv over . That’s really something- and you’ll get a report In Hsnd, documenting the finds.
For like $1200 ? Then, what, will I buy an after market warranty - if it’s a used RV . I wish they had a list of those businesses that would do warranty work on used Rvs . They are hard to find. Men can fix stuff but older women would like this service because we buy Rvs too. But aren’t doing repair work.
On the other hand, if buying a new one-
Well I have the placard at the door RVIA and a number that goes with it- is that NOT proof it’s been gone over already by an RVIA inspector ? So this should have already been done - but too often there is still problems to discover after buying ! So do we get a free Re-Inspection by these RVIA technicians to our homes for free ? Also, that placard costs us about $400 on the cost sheet, so if it isn’t truly inspected. . . This is a farce
If you want to get a service contract, or what some call an extended warranty to protect against high dollar RV repairs, I highly recommend visiting wholesalewarranties.com to see what they have to offer. A lot of fulltime RVers are happy with their offerings. As for the RVIA (RV Industry Association), it is an organization that sets certain RV construction standards for the industry. So when you have that seal on your RV, it simply means that the RV has been built in accord with the standards that RVIA has set, but does not mean that it has been inspected thoroughly. And the organization that certifies RV inspectors is the NRVIA (National RV Inspectors Association) It is completely different from the RVIA, and if you choose to have an RV inspected before purchase I highly recommend using one of their certified inspectors to do the job. I hope that helps.
Do RV inspectors check the engines?
Typically an NRVIA certified inspector will go on a drive along with you and observe how the engine, transmission, brakes, etc. perform. And they will look underneath for any signs of unusual leaks. But they are not usually mechanics and can't offer assistance beyond observation. And that's why I recommend getting a fluid analysis on all the drivetrain fluids like engine oil and coolant, and transmission fluid too. That report will often tell you more about the true internal shape of the drivetrain than anything else you can do. I hope that helps.
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Glad you enjoyed the video!
Do you need a inspection on a new RV
Absolutely. New RVs can often have serious issues that many RV dealers are not fixing before they sell them. The only protection you have as an RV buyer to hire an unbiased 3rd party RV inspector to verify the condition of the RV and then get those issues fixed before taking delivery of the RV.
Will inspectors drive the RV?
Good question. Due to insurance liability they will not drive the RV. But they will ride along as either you or someone you approve of drives the RV. And they will listen and watch for anything that doesn't appear to be right.
Geez a full home inspection on a residential property only cost me $480.
RVs are a lot more complicated than an average home since they are designed to be mobile. But if you feel that paying for an RV inspection isn't worth the money, then don't. But don't complain when you find the RV you just bought has serious hidden issues that will cost you much more than the expense of an inspection. That happens a lot.
@@RVInspectionAndCare $1,000 for an inspection on a used $10,000 travel trailer? That's overpriced for the level of service provided.
@@HighCrimesMisdemeanors Clearly you didn't listen to what I said in the video. Watch it again and you'll see that I said that travel trailers are the cheapest inspection you can get for much less than $1000. And once again, if you don't think that spending the extra to get an RV inspected is worth it, that's just fine. You can join the majority of RV buyers who blindly buy an RV without knowing hardly anything about it. The choice is yours.