Client Expectations- Preparing for your RV Inspection
We realize you have a choice in who you hire to perform your RV inspection. Depending on the inspector you use, you may encounter some or all of the below steps during your RV inspection experience.
Prior to the inspection…
Some inspectors utilize a Pre-Inspection Agreement and a scope of inspection form outlining what the inspection process will cover. In addition to payment, forms like this may require your attention and be signed and returned electronically to the inspector before the inspection can be accomplished. These forms protect yourself and the inspector to make sure it was clearly communicated on what will be inspected and what is not covered during an inspection.
VERY IMPORTANT: We highly recommend that you locate the RV where it has full hook-up of utilities in order for the Inspector to provide you with the maximum value from the inspection process. If any utility is not available the inspector may not be able to provide a full inspection.
Although it may not be required, we encourage you to be present to meet and greet your inspector. They can review what is going to take place during the inspection and post inspection regarding their findings. If you are not going to be in the area when the inspector has finished please inform the inspector that you will not be available when they have finished. The inspector will be able to provide you with “what comes next” information at that time.
Prior to the arrival of the inspector ensure all areas of the RV are accessible to the inspector. For example, if the RV is parked closed to another unit or a building, consider having the unit moved so all slides and awnings can be fully extended. If the RV is located under a shelter structure, consider having it moved out if the clearance above the roof prevents the inspector from accessing the roof. Some inspectors will not remove or relocate personal items located inside the RV and/or storage bays. For example, if the washer/dryer is in a closet, all clothes and belongings should be removed from that closet otherwise visual access is obstructed and it will limit what the inspector can note in the report. All personal belongings of the owner should be removed if possible.
During the inspection…
It is important to provide your RV Inspector time to complete their many tasks. The fewer the interruptions during the inspection process with provide for a more timely and accurate inspection. If you have questions please consider writing them down and ask the inspector to review them with after the inspection is completed.
Please note that the inspector is there to be your non-biased evaluator of the RV equipment. They cannot and will not provide answers to questions such as “based upon your findings, would you buy this RV?” This is the purpose of having a professional non-biased inspection and you and only you will be able to make that decision once you have reviewed the final results.
If your seller is present for the inspection, please ask them to respect the inspector’s time and encourage them to not ask questions of the inspector or follow the inspector through the inspection. Not only will this interrupt the inspector, it also will provide your seller with the possible items found during the inspection – which you may want to present for yourself.
After the inspection…
Depending on your inspectors regular process, they may need to return to their office to evaluate and finalize your report. In addition to the inspection findings, the report may also include supporting photos, copies of the agreements you signed, a copy of your paid invoice, etc.
The inspector can provide you with an estimated timeline of when you will receive your inspection report. Please note that if any type of oil and fluid testing was accomplished the samples will require transit time to one of the testing laboratories. You will likely receive the results of the inspection prior to receiving your oil and fluid analysis.
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