RV FEATURE
IS IT WATERTIGHT?
It’ s no secret water and dampness where it isn’ t supposed to be will prove to be a big problem with caravans. Inspect the following very closely:
• Roof area: Seals, aerial attachment points, hatches, airconditioning seals, solar attachment, wiring grommets, bolt and screw heads;
• Rear area: Road lights, condition of cladding, corner seals;
• Front area: Windows, cladding, lower corners, external lockers;
• Side walls: doors, windows, external latches, cladding, wheel arches, awning rails, side seals, inside walls;
A ripped awning could go unseen unless set-up.
• Underfloor: Pipes, wiring, fittings through bolts; and
• J-moulds and H-moulds: Are all J-moulds in good condition? If you’ re able to peel part of it back, inspect the fasteners beneath. If they are corroded, water is likely getting in. H- moulds are used to join and seal adjoining sheets of cladding, and it’ s the same story. If the silicone and fasteners here have begun to perish, water ingress is likely.
QUESTIONS TO ASK THE SELLER
Why is this caravan being sold?
You’ re trying to understand if there is anything obviously wrong with the caravan. Use this question as a test case to see if you’ re dealing with someone who can be trusted. You’ re looking for a genuine, honest reply; otherwise, walk away.
Can I see a copy of its most recent service?
Look for the service frequency, who conducted it, and what was involved. Service providers generally provide written reports. Answer such as“ I don’ t have the paperwork” or“ I do it myself” are red flags. You don’ t want to buy someone else’ s problem.
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