The more I see videos like this the more I am so glad i am having it inspected. Thank you. Just paid $800 to inspect a 10 years old 36` gas powered Class A . . July 2022.
Hi Billy. I wouldn't buy an RV these days without getting it inspected first. You made a wise decision. Thanks for watching and sharing your experience!
Great advice Duane. Just like a home inspection, they can save you from buying a nightmare. Buying your dream RV get's your emotions going and you don't want to let that cloud the reality of spending so much of your hard earned money. We are presently interested in a 2014 Tiffin Allegro Red AA and it's a beauty. We hope to be able to get it but first we will get an inspection performed.
You are so right Steve. Emotions can cloud a very important situation and lead you to make a decision that you could later regret. But the RV inspector helps bring an objective perspective into the sales process from an unbiased third-party professional. I hope the 2014 Tiffin Allegro RED works out for you. They are great coaches. But if it doesn't, no worries, because something else that's great will be along soon. Thanks for sharing your thought process on this subject here!
I look at having a RV inspector as an insurance policy. I even want one for new RV. You need to explain the difference between a Level 1 and a Level 2 inspector.
Actually Roy, I plan on covering the different levels of RV certification in a followup video that discusses all the systems that RV inspectors test thoroughly. I thought about putting it in this video, but decided it would work best in the future one instead.
Check out your inspector first. I hired one to inspector to do a home I bought. When I found things he missed which costed me 1000s he would NOT stand behind his inspection.
Especially on a motorhome ttat is a house on Wheels so basically you need a house inspection and you need a vehicle inspection , I would want it inspected hundred percent , I would want it inspected from top to bottom and front to back especially all the mechanicals on a vehicle
That would be a very smart way to go. Getting as much information about the true condition of an RV before spending many thousands of dollars for it is a wise thing to do. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us!
Inspections (at least here in Montana) have to be done in order to finance a house. Should not even be any question to me, about doing it for RV's and cars
Can and will the RV inspector give you a rough idea of cost involved in fixing the problems? As many customers new to RVing would not be able to translate the issues presented to buyer in terms of what it might cost to have the issues fixed to correct the problem. As an example, the roof needs sealing. Well the buyer may not have any idea of what kind of cost is involved in this. Without knowing the ball park range of repairs needed, it would be difficult for the buyer to make a decision as to whether to proceed or not, or what negotiating power they may have (or not have) Your video was well done by the way.
That's a good question Modhatter. Most certified RV inspectors I know provide very clear information about what problems they encounter. This includes a thorough description of the problem and the recommended course of action to take on it. They will also often include a photo if it helps. And the issue is rated in terms of severity. But RV inspectors are often not RV service technicians. So if they provided cost estimates, it may not be as accurate as you would want. But armed with the clear information they provide in your detailed RV inspection report, it's an easy matter of making a few phone calls to local RV techs or service facilities to get correct estimates on the items needing attention.
Great video even if I am catching it 3 years after you did it! You are opening my eyes so much. You are doing a great job of removing the ignorance. Question, Should I have an engine mechanic come out to do a full inspection on the drive train also? In this day and age of computer driven engines I don't go near a semi with out the scan tool for them.
Hi Paul. Having a mechanic inspect the chassis and drivetrain closely is not a bad idea. But many RV buyers are also using fluid analysis to determine what kind of shape the inner workings of the drivetrain and other components are really in. You might want to take a look at this video I made on the subject - ua-cam.com/video/abNq3Z8HUJo/v-deo.html .I hope that helps.
Duane, a person is spending 60K to 300k or more on a RV and they're upset about spending 800$ versus 600$ on a report top to bottom stem to stern on the RV of their choice. I don't understand! Sorry for the rant. When the day comes that my wife and myself are going to buy a new or used coach the inspector will be the first to be called, before any contact has been signed!! If i send you a plane ticket will you do the inspection? Great information as always THANKS SAFE TRAVELS
The one important thing not mentioned and is common with a house inspector is the fact that they bear no responsibility for defects that they don’t find.
Nice job. One thing I think you may have left out is the fact that there are different levels of inspectors, I . E. I think you told me awhile back that a level 1 inspector just does a high level review of the RV and a level 2 inspector dives in deep to all systems. I don’t know if they’re any more levels but I thought that might have been helpful knowing that
Hi Mike. Actually I didn't leave it out accidentally. I plan on making another video about all the systems that RV inspectors test on an RV and I planned on discussing the different levels of certification in that video. So stay tuned, it's coming! :-)
Great video Duane. Systems are the killer, between HVAC, Electrical, plumbing, suspension and tires. True that RVS ARE more complex than sticks and bricks! I will be in need of a certified inspector in a year. Maybe I need to get certified and do my own; or us that like being your own attorney? ;-)
Ha!Ha! Getting certified as a Level 2 inspector is pretty involved, but new inspectors are always needed. There is just so much demand for good qualified inspectors these days as the RV market keeps getting hotter all the time. I probably wouldn't go through the whole process of certification just for a personal RV. But if you are considering a way to bring in income on the road in your RV, it's a viable thing to do.
One thing I haven’t seen is how an engine is inspected. Does an RV Inspector inspect an engine? I can only imagine that the fluids are checked and the engine is evaluated on how it runs? One of the biggest concerns buying a used Deisel pusher is what condition the engine is in, what exactly does an RV Inspector look at on these?
Hi Jerry. Certified RV inspectors are not usually mechanics. So they can't really inspect the engine and drivetrain as thoroughly as they do the house part of the RV, although they are trained to perform a careful visual exterior inspection. But I have found that if you perform a fluid analysis on the engine oil and coolant, the transmission fluid, and the generator oil and coolant, you will get a very thorough report of the condition of those components. And that way you can make a more informed decision about buying that RV. Many inspectors are willing to perform the fluid analysis for you too. Of course, you can also hire a mechanic to look the engine and drivetrain over too, but I find that the fluid analysis provides a more in depth look into the true inside condition of the RV mechanical components.
Have heard that this type of inspection is also recommended for even new RV'S. Trying to understand why as they are new and typically any issue covered under unit warranty.?
I know it sounds strange to inspect a new RV Ramiro. But the truth is that the RV industry does not have the best quality control standards in place at the manufacturer these days. So lots of new RVs are going out to the RV dealers with a whole laundry list of items that need repair. Usually the RV dealer will just sell the unit and expect the buyer to bring the RV back as they find the issues. But this process can take many visits to the dealer over a year or more and is frustrating for RV owners. So if you have the new RV inspected before you take ownership, you can present the report to the dealer and have them fix everything on the list under warranty at the same time and save a lot of back and forth and frustration. I get a lot of requests for new RV inspections just for these reasons.
One other thing about new RV's is that over the past couple of years, with supply chain issues and shortages of parts, some manufacturers have substituted other parts and, quite frankly, the units are as good as the people building them. Same for new houses. Plus, if a new RV has been sitting on a lot, baking in the sun, it can still have issues. This is called "lot rot." RV inspections are done to see if there are potential issues and also for peace of mind when there aren't any. I hope that helps.
If you have an inspection on a new RV and they find problems for the dealer to fix, does that inspector let you know if the dealer fixed the problem later?
They can, if you also pay them to return after the repairs have been made and inspect only the items that were fixed. A lot of people are starting to do that because many dealers just tell customers they fixed the problems to get them out of their hair when they actually did little if anything at all. So either you can check up on what they did yourself or you can pay the inspector to do it. Whichever works best for you. But I highly advise you not to take delivery of any RV before all the issues have been fixed to your satisfaction.
I sympathize with your comment Monica. Quality control at the manufacturers is not very good these days. But a good RV inspection is still essential as you said.
I am currently looking at a 1998 Monaco Windsor motor coach. I took it for a test drive today and the main issue that I have is that the drivers side windshield has a crack in it that is about 16 inches long. We are having conversations with the dealer regarding getting the windshield replaced. The other issue that I am having is getting an actual value of the coach. The asking price is 45,000 and I have been able to find the NADA suggested retail in the area that I live ,Woodstock Ga to be 8,500 on the low end and 10,500 on the high end. Are there company’s that do actual appraisals on coaches or is the NADA price guide the best that I am going to be able to get.
I am not a big fan of NADA prices for RVs Mark. I prefer to find out what the market says that the value is for a coach right now. To do that I use RVTrader.com and RVT.com to search for the brand and model I'm looking at. Or if none are available I look for a comparable brand and model in that year. Then I search nationwide, not just in my area. I throw out the high and low end prices and look for an average price as the starting point for negotiation. Keep in mind that if the RV has been exceptionally well cared for, the price may be higher and still be worth it. I hope that helps.
Just visit nrvia.org and click on the button for "Find An RV Inspector". On the next page check the map to find the certified RV inspectors in the area of the RV's location. Any NRVIA certified inspector is trained to provide a high quality inspection.
I would like to find some place that explain oil analysis. What's normal What's now. I have found places that show a oil analysis but if you don't know what should be normal it's useless.
Thank you for the great info. I understand diesel class a’s have very complex chassis/mechanical systems on the drive side. Do these inspections go thru all that too, or just the “house” part. For example, is the diesel engine checked for sound operation and deterioration, etc?
Good question Doug. Let me first say that RV inspectors are not qualified mechanics, so our inspection of the engine and drivetrain components is limited. We essentially make sure that the engine starts and runs correctly without observable issues. We also verify the appearance of the engine and generator fluids as well. But if the prospective buyer wants a clear picture of the condition of these driving components, they should order a fluid analysis of all the motorhome fluids to make sure that no major issues are apparent in these areas.
Wow so I'm a home inspector for residential purchases. This really sounds like a commercial for RV inspections driving home the point of what I can save you. In a home inspection all we do is find function and safety issues there are no code violations there are no structural everything is visual can't tear apart a wall an RV inspector does exactly the same thing. He can't see in the walls. He can only tell what's going on visually. He's not allowed to tear apart the RV just to inspect it besides it wouldn't go back there but gather very well It is an RV some are built pretty good most of them are built pretty bad and after a few trips down the earthquake highway some can get really messed up on the inside I'm an RV nut we go camping about 10 times a year. So just because you have an inspection doesn't mean there's nothing wrong with it. Now when it comes to the part of asking the inspector would you buy this. He's not going to tell you because if he says don't buy this trailer And it happens to be a trailer that's on a dealer's lot he'll find himself not inspecting any more units because all the dealers will you know. They will blacklist him. I know a few home inspectors that are like that where real estate agents will not recommend them whether or not they're the best there is simply because it costs them a sale. Also remember not all inspectors inspect all units. We all have our specialty and that's where we like to live That's how we based our time and money on. Happy buying and remember after you bought the unit you will probably find a handful of things that are wrong with it in some way shape or form. Or just looks out of shape to you and they probably are. Inspectors are human And we can miss things. Home inspection cost up to 2000 ft², single level is around $300 takes us 2 and 1/2 hours that's for a house.
I am always amazed at people who know very little about what they are talking about and yet feel the need to make comments that disparage other people who do. I don't normally respond to negative comments, but in this case I will make an exception. I don't feel qualified to visit a YT channel hosted by a home inspector and make comments that contradict what they have to say. That's for one simple reason - I am not a home inspector and I have not gone through any certification process to become a home inspector. But I have gone through the most stringent certification process for RV inspections (NRVIA) that I know of. In our classes we were taught that RV inspections are completely different from anything else you may inspect. That's because RVs are not just homes. They are also not just vehicles, although many of them are based on commercial type vehicle platforms. RVs are in fact both a home and a vehicle. There are multiple sources of power and water. There is a leveling system that no home possesses. There is an engine, drivetrain, suspension and tires that is not found in any home. The appliances often work off of multiple power sources, all of which must be inspected. The sealants in use are often unique to a combination home/vehicle that goes down the road being shaken as it goes. And I could go on and on about the differences between RV inspections and home inspections. In other words, there is a lot more going on in an RV inspection than just an inspection of the home itself. And it is very different from what you normally find in most residential houses. It is true that we don't tear the walls apart in an RV inspection. And I never said that we do. But most problems behind the walls manifest themselves in other ways that can be detected in the inspection. It is not true that we tell the customer whether or not they should buy the RV we just inspected. That is something that we strictly avoid. We simply provide them with the facts about what we found during the inspection and they can decide for themselves what they wish to do about the purchase. It is also not true that RV inspectors specialize in certain types of RVs. At least not the vast majority of RV inspectors that I know. We inspect Class As, Bs, Cs, travel trailers, fifth wheels, truck campers, etc. And every inspection can be quite different from the last one. We inspect large RVs and small ones. New and used RVs. Those that are built by quality manufacturers and those that are not. In fact, a typical inspection by my wife and myself takes us 5-6 hours, or 10-12 hours between us. That does not include the time we spend before the inspection doing research on that RV online. It also does not include the time preparing a very detailed report and then going over that report with the customer and answering all of their questions. It would be nice to only spend a couple of hours on an inspection. But our inspections are very thorough and involved. They often involve technologies that are ever changing in the design and build of these complicated machines. If you are reading this response as a subscriber, I encourage you not to listen to those who do not know what they are talking about. An RV inspection will not be a perfect inspection that finds every possible issue that could be a problem in an RV. But it will be the most complete picture of the actual condition of that RV that I know of. Get an RV inspection by a certified NRVIA RV inspector (and it doesn't have to be me). You will be glad that you did!
Having a used rv inspected by a certified rv inspector is probably a good idea however,it’s not inexpensive, My question about it would be what accountability or liability does that inspector have over a defined and advertised time period if a a problem occurs.
It depends on what you consider "not inexpensive". If having to spend large sums of money on hidden issues that most RV buyers will never know about when they buy an RV is a risk that you are willing to take, then yes, an RV inspection is too expensive for you. But in my experience, the inspection often pays for itself in the problems found. That's because those items can often help the buyer negotiate a lower price because of the repairs that need to be made. But even if the inspection report reveals that the RV is a money pit with all sorts of problems that need to be fixed, it could literally save you many thousands in repairs not counting the frustration and anxiety of owning an RV that is a constant headache. And as far as liability is concerned, do home inspectors warranty that nothing will go wrong with your house when you buy it? Neither do RV inspectors.
nice channel you have. came across it while looking to get an RV for living in, relocating from wi to nv before buying new house. i have a property own mortgage free and thoughts of trading for a good used of equal value (diesel pusher). haven't gone through many of your videos, but do you have one pro's/con's for dual rear axle pushers?
another question, for used pushers, in your opinion, what is the best or recommend for brand, less breakdowns, recalls, and generally long lasting, price not being a concern?
Hi Ray. Here is a video where I discuss the pros and cons of diesel pushers in general and it would also apply to tag axle DPs as well - ua-cam.com/video/ZigDXfcybNg/v-deo.html I hope that helps.
When we are talking about older DPs, the brand name doesn't mean as much as how well the coach has been maintained by its owner in my opinion. But some of the overall best brands in my estimation are Newmar, Tiffin, Monaco and Winnebago.
The problem that I have experience is the vast range of performing the same inspection between inspectors. I have had pricing as low as $350 and as high as $1299 for the base inspection In addition the NRVIA website locator is not up to date. Either inspectors don't do Class A's, no longer in the area, or are seasonal in the area you need the inspections. I have previously had an inspection done on another RV.. Of the 6 I tried with in 20 miles of the RV needed 5 had reasons why they where no longer in the area. the last one was so high in price that it really questions how their pricing for the inspections
Hi Bob. Sometimes there are challenges with finding an available certified RV inspector. This can be especially so in areas of the country where RVing is seasonal, like the southern states. And the NRVIA has been recently working on their locator service map specifically with the idea of allowing traveling inspectors to change their location on the map more freely and accurately. And the changes appear to be a much needed improvement. At any rate, I think you will see the issues you mentioned improve quite a bit in the future. Thanks for sharing your experience though.
One reason for the difference in cost is that some inspectors will take hundreds of photos and give you a report 75 pages long and others will give you a very short report with few photos. I'd be cautious about the low priced ones as you get what you pay for. There should also be a difference in price between the different types of RV's.
Hi Larry. Arranging for an RV inspection should be the last step before the actual purchase. So you need to narrow down your search to the RV that you are serious about buying. Then before the purchase is completed have the inspector make sure that it is a good value without hidden problems. If the inspector finds some issues that need repair, negotiate with the seller for the cost of the repairs. In many cases, you will save more than the cost of the inspection itself by doing it that way.
Thank you Sir! I know quite a few Dealerships require a 10% deposit (negotiable of course) if you are a serious buyer in order for them to hold the rig for you (I am looking at a 2020 Leisure Travel UnityIB). I was just wondering if I should have it inspected prior to putting the deposit down, or wait until the actual delivery BEFORE I sign the final paperwork? Thank you again for your time. I really enjoy your channel and have recommended it to others!!
Hi Larry. I'm sorry but I didn't see your question in this comment until today. It's a good question too. There is often going to be a challenge in some cases with getting a proper inspection on an RV when all the dealer wants is to sell the unit and move on to the next customer. And that is especially true now when RVs are selling like hotcakes. But I personally would not buy any RV, especially a used one, without an inspection from a qualified inspector. If the dealer is adamant about a deposit to show your good faith interest in the RV, I would be OK with that if he is willing to sign a waiver that releases the deposit to me if I decide not to buy because of something that was found during the inspection. If the dealer is not willing to do that I move on. There are lots of great RVs for sale and it's not a good idea to get so emotionally attached to one particular RV that you fail to do your due diligence in buying it. I hope that helps.
Very good video, thank you for the information. My dilemma, currently looking for a certified or Master NRVIA inspector near Little Rock Arkansas for a late model class A. The NRVIA locator takes out to 250 miles before it picks up any, and no Master level inspectors. Any other suggestions or options for hiring someone qualified to do an in depth inspection? I am in Montana and can't be there myself, so looking for options that don't include dealers. Will an inspector travel more than 100 miles to inspect a newer class A?
I just looked at the NRVIA map and you are right that there aren't many RV inspectors in that area. So in that case, I recommend that you email them at Info@nrvia.org or call them at 855-472-9948, and let them know that you want an NRVIA inspection but can't find someone in that area. They will put out a request to all inspectors to see if someone is willing to travel for the inspection. And many NRVIA inspectors will do that if there is no other way to get the inspection handled. I hope that works for you!
NRVIA certified RV inspectors don't appraise or value the RV they inspect. They simply examine the systems of the RV thoroughly and note what is functioning as intended and what is not.
I don’t have much faith in home inspectors. They are only liable for the cost of the inspection. What is the liability for a NRVIA? Also it’s difficult to gauge their abilities. I would ask for an example of a recent inspection report. If a inspector takes 8 hr to inspect an RV that’s a long day! Then they still need to write the inspection report! At $900 per inspection that’s $100 per hour 😳. At those hi rates they shouldn’t miss a lick.
If you don't have much faith in home inspectors, you probably won't have much more faith in RV inspectors either Tom. As far as gauging their abilities, that's the whole idea of going through a certification process. So an NRVIA certified RV inspector has met a very high standard of criteria that means that they are well trained and qualified to perform a quality inspection. If you require more than that you will not be satisfied with almost anyone. And as far as getting a sample of a recent inspection report, we can't do that. That's because the report belongs to each inspection client only. And it would be a breach of confidence to share it with anyone else without their specific written approval. Finally, if you have a problem with trained and skilled people being paid more than $100/hour you will never be able to get your RV fixed at almost any repair shop as the going hourly rate there is often $150/hour or even more. I don't wish to offend you, but honestly if you started bringing up all of these negative viewpoints with me while discussing your inspection needs, I would personally suggest that you find someone else to do the inspection. The great thing about being an RV inspector is that we can decide who we wish to work with and who we choose to avoid.
@@RVInspectionAndCare what an excellent reply. I'm also NRVIA certified so I know you are correct. In addition, the reports are around 75 pages long with anywhere from 80 to over 100 photos. There are hundreds of items on our checklist, hence the amount of time taken in the inspection.
The RV Inspection Report only tells you the condition of the RV but it doesn't give you a Desirable For Purchase Score (DFPS).... so it's almost USELESS if you dont know what you are reading or what the report really says... 90% of RV Inspection Reports give you a very GENERIC detail about the condition of the RV.... It's a pre-written report that almost every inspector uses in the industry..... and all the inspector has to do is to input the RV info and what he found during the inspection... very general and generic..... there is no thorough analysis of the condition of the RV ..the report only tells you what it is but does not tell you why it is that way.... for example, the report says, " engine bay is wet and covered with oil." But it does tell you why it's covered with oil and where the oil originated from, how serious the problem is, and how much it could/would cost to repair..... some RV Inspectors are con artists and looking to scam inexperienced RV buyers just like home appraisers and home inspectors are doing to home buyers... the whole inspection industry is rotten to its core and has terrible ethical problems.... a much better alternative to an RV Inspector is an RV mechanic... the mechanic will tell you exactly what is wrong with the RV from a mechanical, electronical, and structural point of view, and how much you will have to pay to get the problems fixed because he has seen the good, the bad, the ugly, and the stupid of all RVs.. The RV inspector is like a 2nd set of eyes that tell you what it sees... the RV mechanic tells you what's wrong and why... the RV Mechanic will give you a DFPS based on his findings and analysis of the identified problems... Any RV that scores below 70% on the DFPS scale is a LEMON. Now you PROSPECT RV buyers have to decide who's more worthy of your $900...the RV Inspector or the RV Mechanic.......I will go with the mechanic....
Sorry Argentum but I have to disagree with almost everything you said in this comment. You are entitled to your opinions but my viewpoint on this subject is very different from yours. Here are my points of disagreement - 1) The report that NRVIA inspectors provide is very detailed. It is not generic. And it is not pre-written. The vast majority of people buying RVs do not have technical or advanced knowledge about them, so the report has to transfer the technical know-how of the inspector into a multi-media form that is easily readable and understandable by the prospective buyer. And almost all of us use software that guides us through the inspection so nothing is missed. Our clients usually rave about the report they receive and the knowledge it imparts. 2) You paint the whole RV inspection industry with a very wide brush and insist that it is "rotten to its core and has terrible ethical problems". However the vast majority of RV inspectors I know are very competent and ethical. They want to produce a quality report that accurately describes the condition of the RV being inspected at the time of inspection and they succeed at doing that very well. 3) In contrast to RV inspectors that you view in such a poor light you seem to have an overly rosy viewpoint about RV repair technicians. My experience has actually been just the opposite. Whereas there are many fine and competent RV technicians that I have encountered, there is also a number of those who claim they are qualified to handle repair issues when they clearly are not. This is why many RV owners have to keep returning to dealerships and repair facilities to get the same problems fixed over and over again. I am not in any way saying that RV technicians as a whole are not competent. But I have encountered more issues with them than any of the inspectors I know. 4) As I said in this video, it is not the job of the RV inspector to decide whether or not an RV is a lemon, especially not basing it on some arbitrary score. It is simply our job to explain clearly what the issues are with that particular RV and how serious they may be. The prospective buyer can decide for themselves whether they wish to buy or not but at least they have a clear picture of what needs to be addressed to bring that RV up to acceptable standards.
Once again, I disagree with this opinion. I would not want the payment for my skills and abilities to be regulated by government any more than a car mechanic, construction worker, plumber, or any other skilled profession should be subjected to that kind of oversight. If someone does not want to pay the price I charge for an RV inspection there are other inspectors who are free to charge less and get the business instead.
The more I see videos like this the more I am so glad i am having it inspected. Thank you. Just paid $800 to inspect a 10 years old 36` gas powered Class A . . July 2022.
Hi Billy. I wouldn't buy an RV these days without getting it inspected first. You made a wise decision. Thanks for watching and sharing your experience!
Great advice Duane. Just like a home inspection, they can save you from buying a nightmare. Buying your dream RV get's your emotions going and you don't want to let that cloud the reality of spending so much of your hard earned money. We are presently interested in a 2014 Tiffin Allegro Red AA and it's a beauty. We hope to be able to get it but first we will get an inspection performed.
You are so right Steve. Emotions can cloud a very important situation and lead you to make a decision that you could later regret. But the RV inspector helps bring an objective perspective into the sales process from an unbiased third-party professional. I hope the 2014 Tiffin Allegro RED works out for you. They are great coaches. But if it doesn't, no worries, because something else that's great will be along soon. Thanks for sharing your thought process on this subject here!
I look at having a RV inspector as an insurance policy. I even want one for new RV. You need to explain the difference between a Level 1 and a Level 2 inspector.
Actually Roy, I plan on covering the different levels of RV certification in a followup video that discusses all the systems that RV inspectors test thoroughly. I thought about putting it in this video, but decided it would work best in the future one instead.
Check out your inspector first. I hired one to inspector to do a home I bought. When I found things he missed which costed me 1000s he would NOT stand behind his inspection.
Thanks for the suggestion Jeff. And thanks for watching!
Especially on a motorhome ttat is a house on Wheels so basically you need a house inspection and you need a vehicle inspection , I would want it inspected hundred percent , I would want it inspected from top to bottom and front to back especially all the mechanicals on a vehicle
That would be a very smart way to go. Getting as much information about the true condition of an RV before spending many thousands of dollars for it is a wise thing to do. Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us!
Inspections (at least here in Montana) have to be done in order to finance a house. Should not even be any question to me, about doing it for RV's and cars
Can and will the RV inspector give you a rough idea of cost involved in fixing the problems? As many customers new to RVing would not be able to translate the issues presented to buyer in terms of what it might cost to have the issues fixed to correct the problem. As an example, the roof needs sealing. Well the buyer may not have any idea of what kind of cost is involved in this. Without knowing the ball park range of repairs needed, it would be difficult for the buyer to make a decision as to whether to proceed or not, or what negotiating power they may have (or not have) Your video was well done by the way.
That's a good question Modhatter. Most certified RV inspectors I know provide very clear information about what problems they encounter. This includes a thorough description of the problem and the recommended course of action to take on it. They will also often include a photo if it helps. And the issue is rated in terms of severity. But RV inspectors are often not RV service technicians. So if they provided cost estimates, it may not be as accurate as you would want. But armed with the clear information they provide in your detailed RV inspection report, it's an easy matter of making a few phone calls to local RV techs or service facilities to get correct estimates on the items needing attention.
Your are the RV guru, you always give great information.
I appreciate that Gregory. Thanks for the positive feedback!
Great video even if I am catching it 3 years after you did it! You are opening my eyes so much. You are doing a great job of removing the ignorance. Question, Should I have an engine mechanic come out to do a full inspection on the drive train also? In this day and age of computer driven engines I don't go near a semi with out the scan tool for them.
Hi Paul. Having a mechanic inspect the chassis and drivetrain closely is not a bad idea. But many RV buyers are also using fluid analysis to determine what kind of shape the inner workings of the drivetrain and other components are really in. You might want to take a look at this video I made on the subject - ua-cam.com/video/abNq3Z8HUJo/v-deo.html .I hope that helps.
Great review... thank you... my wife and I are beginning our journey now!
Glad it was helpful Mark. I hope your RV journey is both safe and happy!
Duane, a person is spending 60K to 300k or more on a RV and they're upset about spending 800$ versus 600$ on a report top to bottom stem to stern on the RV of their choice. I don't understand! Sorry for the rant. When the day comes that my wife and myself are going to buy a new or used coach the inspector will be the first to be called, before any contact has been signed!! If i send you a plane ticket will you do the inspection? Great information as always THANKS SAFE TRAVELS
Don't apologize Ron. I enjoyed your rant! :-) And I couldn't agree with you any more. Thanks for all of your contributions to the channel!
The one important thing not mentioned and is common with a house inspector is the fact that they bear no responsibility for defects that they don’t find.
That's a good point. Thanks for mentioning it here.
Nice job. One thing I think you may have left out is the fact that there are different levels of inspectors, I . E. I think you told me awhile back that a level 1 inspector just does a high level review of the RV and a level 2 inspector dives in deep to all systems. I don’t know if they’re any more levels but I thought that might have been helpful knowing that
Hi Mike. Actually I didn't leave it out accidentally. I plan on making another video about all the systems that RV inspectors test on an RV and I planned on discussing the different levels of certification in that video. So stay tuned, it's coming! :-)
RV Inspection And Care thank you
Great video Duane. Systems are the killer, between HVAC, Electrical, plumbing, suspension and tires. True that RVS ARE more complex than sticks and bricks! I will be in need of a certified inspector in a year. Maybe I need to get certified and do my own; or us that like being your own attorney? ;-)
Ha!Ha! Getting certified as a Level 2 inspector is pretty involved, but new inspectors are always needed. There is just so much demand for good qualified inspectors these days as the RV market keeps getting hotter all the time. I probably wouldn't go through the whole process of certification just for a personal RV. But if you are considering a way to bring in income on the road in your RV, it's a viable thing to do.
@@RVInspectionAndCare I figure my mindset as an Aerospace QA Mgr would help.
One thing I haven’t seen is how an engine is inspected. Does an RV Inspector inspect an engine? I can only imagine that the fluids are checked and the engine is evaluated on how it runs? One of the biggest concerns buying a used Deisel pusher is what condition the engine is in, what exactly does an RV Inspector look at on these?
Hi Jerry. Certified RV inspectors are not usually mechanics. So they can't really inspect the engine and drivetrain as thoroughly as they do the house part of the RV, although they are trained to perform a careful visual exterior inspection. But I have found that if you perform a fluid analysis on the engine oil and coolant, the transmission fluid, and the generator oil and coolant, you will get a very thorough report of the condition of those components. And that way you can make a more informed decision about buying that RV. Many inspectors are willing to perform the fluid analysis for you too. Of course, you can also hire a mechanic to look the engine and drivetrain over too, but I find that the fluid analysis provides a more in depth look into the true inside condition of the RV mechanical components.
Have heard that this type of inspection is also recommended for even new RV'S. Trying to understand why as they are new and typically any issue covered under unit warranty.?
I know it sounds strange to inspect a new RV Ramiro. But the truth is that the RV industry does not have the best quality control standards in place at the manufacturer these days. So lots of new RVs are going out to the RV dealers with a whole laundry list of items that need repair. Usually the RV dealer will just sell the unit and expect the buyer to bring the RV back as they find the issues. But this process can take many visits to the dealer over a year or more and is frustrating for RV owners. So if you have the new RV inspected before you take ownership, you can present the report to the dealer and have them fix everything on the list under warranty at the same time and save a lot of back and forth and frustration. I get a lot of requests for new RV inspections just for these reasons.
Wow, great info! Especially on expensive RVs , you are spending $250,000+, and extra $900 is well worth it!
One other thing about new RV's is that over the past couple of years, with supply chain issues and shortages of parts, some manufacturers have substituted other parts and, quite frankly, the units are as good as the people building them. Same for new houses. Plus, if a new RV has been sitting on a lot, baking in the sun, it can still have issues. This is called "lot rot." RV inspections are done to see if there are potential issues and also for peace of mind when there aren't any. I hope that helps.
If you have an inspection on a new RV and they find problems for the dealer to fix, does that inspector let you know if the dealer fixed the problem later?
They can, if you also pay them to return after the repairs have been made and inspect only the items that were fixed. A lot of people are starting to do that because many dealers just tell customers they fixed the problems to get them out of their hair when they actually did little if anything at all. So either you can check up on what they did yourself or you can pay the inspector to do it. Whichever works best for you. But I highly advise you not to take delivery of any RV before all the issues have been fixed to your satisfaction.
Absolutly essential to get an inspection prior to purchase but it seems so many RVs are garbage, they will fall apart regardless.
I sympathize with your comment Monica. Quality control at the manufacturers is not very good these days. But a good RV inspection is still essential as you said.
Sure appreciate your help!
I'm glad the video was helpful Kelly. Safe and happy RV travels to you!
Larry, An other great informative video, thank you so very much for putting these out. Appreciate you.
Thanks so much George. I'm glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks for the information and it's very great information
So nice of you to say William. I'm glad you enjoyed it!
I am currently looking at a 1998 Monaco Windsor motor coach. I took it for a test drive today and the main issue that I have is that the drivers side windshield has a crack in it that is about 16 inches long. We are having conversations with the dealer regarding getting the windshield replaced. The other issue that I am having is getting an actual value of the coach. The asking price is 45,000 and I have been able to find the NADA suggested retail in the area that I live ,Woodstock Ga to be 8,500 on the low end and 10,500 on the high end. Are there company’s that do actual appraisals on coaches or is the NADA price guide the best that I am going to be able to get.
I am not a big fan of NADA prices for RVs Mark. I prefer to find out what the market says that the value is for a coach right now. To do that I use RVTrader.com and RVT.com to search for the brand and model I'm looking at. Or if none are available I look for a comparable brand and model in that year. Then I search nationwide, not just in my area. I throw out the high and low end prices and look for an average price as the starting point for negotiation. Keep in mind that if the RV has been exceptionally well cared for, the price may be higher and still be worth it. I hope that helps.
Absolutely amazing and pertinent content. Thank you
So glad you think so. Thanks for both watching and leaving positive feedback too!
how do you find a rv inspector that is not in with the dealer? aka: there buddy.
Just visit nrvia.org and click on the button for "Find An RV Inspector". On the next page check the map to find the certified RV inspectors in the area of the RV's location. Any NRVIA certified inspector is trained to provide a high quality inspection.
I would like to find some place that explain oil analysis. What's normal What's now. I have found places that show a oil analysis but if you don't know what should be normal it's useless.
Here is a link to information that may be helpful for you - iselinc.com/interpret-oil-analysis-report/
Thank you for the great info. I understand diesel class a’s have very complex chassis/mechanical systems on the drive side. Do these inspections go thru all that too, or just the “house” part. For example, is the diesel engine checked for sound operation and deterioration, etc?
Good question Doug. Let me first say that RV inspectors are not qualified mechanics, so our inspection of the engine and drivetrain components is limited. We essentially make sure that the engine starts and runs correctly without observable issues. We also verify the appearance of the engine and generator fluids as well. But if the prospective buyer wants a clear picture of the condition of these driving components, they should order a fluid analysis of all the motorhome fluids to make sure that no major issues are apparent in these areas.
@@RVInspectionAndCare Thanks!
Wow so I'm a home inspector for residential purchases. This really sounds like a commercial for RV inspections driving home the point of what I can save you. In a home inspection all we do is find function and safety issues there are no code violations there are no structural everything is visual can't tear apart a wall an RV inspector does exactly the same thing. He can't see in the walls. He can only tell what's going on visually. He's not allowed to tear apart the RV just to inspect it besides it wouldn't go back there but gather very well It is an RV some are built pretty good most of them are built pretty bad and after a few trips down the earthquake highway some can get really messed up on the inside I'm an RV nut we go camping about 10 times a year. So just because you have an inspection doesn't mean there's nothing wrong with it. Now when it comes to the part of asking the inspector would you buy this. He's not going to tell you because if he says don't buy this trailer And it happens to be a trailer that's on a dealer's lot he'll find himself not inspecting any more units because all the dealers will you know. They will blacklist him. I know a few home inspectors that are like that where real estate agents will not recommend them whether or not they're the best there is simply because it costs them a sale. Also remember not all inspectors inspect all units. We all have our specialty and that's where we like to live That's how we based our time and money on. Happy buying and remember after you bought the unit you will probably find a handful of things that are wrong with it in some way shape or form. Or just looks out of shape to you and they probably are. Inspectors are human And we can miss things. Home inspection cost up to 2000 ft², single level is around $300 takes us 2 and 1/2 hours that's for a house.
I am always amazed at people who know very little about what they are talking about and yet feel the need to make comments that disparage other people who do. I don't normally respond to negative comments, but in this case I will make an exception. I don't feel qualified to visit a YT channel hosted by a home inspector and make comments that contradict what they have to say. That's for one simple reason - I am not a home inspector and I have not gone through any certification process to become a home inspector. But I have gone through the most stringent certification process for RV inspections (NRVIA) that I know of. In our classes we were taught that RV inspections are completely different from anything else you may inspect. That's because RVs are not just homes. They are also not just vehicles, although many of them are based on commercial type vehicle platforms. RVs are in fact both a home and a vehicle. There are multiple sources of power and water. There is a leveling system that no home possesses. There is an engine, drivetrain, suspension and tires that is not found in any home. The appliances often work off of multiple power sources, all of which must be inspected. The sealants in use are often unique to a combination home/vehicle that goes down the road being shaken as it goes. And I could go on and on about the differences between RV inspections and home inspections. In other words, there is a lot more going on in an RV inspection than just an inspection of the home itself. And it is very different from what you normally find in most residential houses. It is true that we don't tear the walls apart in an RV inspection. And I never said that we do. But most problems behind the walls manifest themselves in other ways that can be detected in the inspection. It is not true that we tell the customer whether or not they should buy the RV we just inspected. That is something that we strictly avoid. We simply provide them with the facts about what we found during the inspection and they can decide for themselves what they wish to do about the purchase. It is also not true that RV inspectors specialize in certain types of RVs. At least not the vast majority of RV inspectors that I know. We inspect Class As, Bs, Cs, travel trailers, fifth wheels, truck campers, etc. And every inspection can be quite different from the last one. We inspect large RVs and small ones. New and used RVs. Those that are built by quality manufacturers and those that are not. In fact, a typical inspection by my wife and myself takes us 5-6 hours, or 10-12 hours between us. That does not include the time we spend before the inspection doing research on that RV online. It also does not include the time preparing a very detailed report and then going over that report with the customer and answering all of their questions. It would be nice to only spend a couple of hours on an inspection. But our inspections are very thorough and involved. They often involve technologies that are ever changing in the design and build of these complicated machines. If you are reading this response as a subscriber, I encourage you not to listen to those who do not know what they are talking about. An RV inspection will not be a perfect inspection that finds every possible issue that could be a problem in an RV. But it will be the most complete picture of the actual condition of that RV that I know of. Get an RV inspection by a certified NRVIA RV inspector (and it doesn't have to be me). You will be glad that you did!
Never talk to the inspector infront of the dealer. 😮
Having a used rv inspected by a certified rv inspector is probably a good idea however,it’s not inexpensive, My question about it would be what accountability or liability does that inspector have over a defined and advertised time period if a a problem occurs.
It depends on what you consider "not inexpensive". If having to spend large sums of money on hidden issues that most RV buyers will never know about when they buy an RV is a risk that you are willing to take, then yes, an RV inspection is too expensive for you. But in my experience, the inspection often pays for itself in the problems found. That's because those items can often help the buyer negotiate a lower price because of the repairs that need to be made. But even if the inspection report reveals that the RV is a money pit with all sorts of problems that need to be fixed, it could literally save you many thousands in repairs not counting the frustration and anxiety of owning an RV that is a constant headache. And as far as liability is concerned, do home inspectors warranty that nothing will go wrong with your house when you buy it? Neither do RV inspectors.
Thank you Sir. Great video.
So nice of you to say Ray. I'm glad that you found the video helpful!
Great job explaining Don
Thanks Don. I'm glad you enjoyed it!
nice channel you have. came across it while looking to get an RV for living in, relocating from wi to nv before buying new house. i have a property own mortgage free and thoughts of trading for a good used of equal value (diesel pusher). haven't gone through many of your videos, but do you have one pro's/con's for dual rear axle pushers?
another question, for used pushers, in your opinion, what is the best or recommend for brand, less breakdowns, recalls, and generally long lasting, price not being a concern?
Hi Ray. Here is a video where I discuss the pros and cons of diesel pushers in general and it would also apply to tag axle DPs as well - ua-cam.com/video/ZigDXfcybNg/v-deo.html I hope that helps.
When we are talking about older DPs, the brand name doesn't mean as much as how well the coach has been maintained by its owner in my opinion. But some of the overall best brands in my estimation are Newmar, Tiffin, Monaco and Winnebago.
The problem that I have experience is the vast range of performing the same inspection between inspectors. I have had pricing as low as $350 and as high as $1299 for the base inspection In addition the NRVIA website locator is not up to date. Either inspectors don't do Class A's, no longer in the area, or are seasonal in the area you need the inspections. I have previously had an inspection done on another RV.. Of the 6 I tried with in 20 miles of the RV needed 5 had reasons why they where no longer in the area. the last one was so high in price that it really questions how their pricing for the inspections
Hi Bob. Sometimes there are challenges with finding an available certified RV inspector. This can be especially so in areas of the country where RVing is seasonal, like the southern states. And the NRVIA has been recently working on their locator service map specifically with the idea of allowing traveling inspectors to change their location on the map more freely and accurately. And the changes appear to be a much needed improvement. At any rate, I think you will see the issues you mentioned improve quite a bit in the future. Thanks for sharing your experience though.
One reason for the difference in cost is that some inspectors will take hundreds of photos and give you a report 75 pages long and others will give you a very short report with few photos. I'd be cautious about the low priced ones as you get what you pay for. There should also be a difference in price between the different types of RV's.
Very good. Thankyou
Glad you enjoyed it Jerry. Thanks for leaving a nice comment!
Great information!
Glad you think so Randy. Thanks for watching!
Where in the buying process is the best time to hire an RV inspector?
Hi Larry. Arranging for an RV inspection should be the last step before the actual purchase. So you need to narrow down your search to the RV that you are serious about buying. Then before the purchase is completed have the inspector make sure that it is a good value without hidden problems. If the inspector finds some issues that need repair, negotiate with the seller for the cost of the repairs. In many cases, you will save more than the cost of the inspection itself by doing it that way.
Thank you Sir! I know quite a few Dealerships require a 10% deposit (negotiable of course) if you are a serious buyer in order for them to hold the rig for you (I am looking at a 2020 Leisure Travel UnityIB). I was just wondering if I should have it inspected prior to putting the deposit down, or wait until the actual delivery BEFORE I sign the final paperwork? Thank you again for your time. I really enjoy your channel and have recommended it to others!!
Hi Larry. I'm sorry but I didn't see your question in this comment until today. It's a good question too. There is often going to be a challenge in some cases with getting a proper inspection on an RV when all the dealer wants is to sell the unit and move on to the next customer. And that is especially true now when RVs are selling like hotcakes. But I personally would not buy any RV, especially a used one, without an inspection from a qualified inspector. If the dealer is adamant about a deposit to show your good faith interest in the RV, I would be OK with that if he is willing to sign a waiver that releases the deposit to me if I decide not to buy because of something that was found during the inspection. If the dealer is not willing to do that I move on. There are lots of great RVs for sale and it's not a good idea to get so emotionally attached to one particular RV that you fail to do your due diligence in buying it. I hope that helps.
@@RVInspectionAndCare thank you!! Really appreciate the advice!! Stay safe!!
Thank you, very informative
Glad it was helpful Yolanda. Thanks for watching!
Great info. Thanks
Glad it was helpful Tim!
Very good video, thank you for the information. My dilemma, currently looking for a certified or Master NRVIA inspector near Little Rock Arkansas for a late model class A. The NRVIA locator takes out to 250 miles before it picks up any, and no Master level inspectors. Any other suggestions or options for hiring someone qualified to do an in depth inspection? I am in Montana and can't be there myself, so looking for options that don't include dealers. Will an inspector travel more than 100 miles to inspect a newer class A?
I just looked at the NRVIA map and you are right that there aren't many RV inspectors in that area. So in that case, I recommend that you email them at Info@nrvia.org or call them at 855-472-9948, and let them know that you want an NRVIA inspection but can't find someone in that area. They will put out a request to all inspectors to see if someone is willing to travel for the inspection. And many NRVIA inspectors will do that if there is no other way to get the inspection handled. I hope that works for you!
@@RVInspectionAndCare I called, they put out the word, and the calls are coming in already. Thank you.
@@winginitwithjohn8451 That's great to hear! They really try to do their best to make sure that you get a good inspection.
Don't you guys put value based on condition and USPAP?
NRVIA certified RV inspectors don't appraise or value the RV they inspect. They simply examine the systems of the RV thoroughly and note what is functioning as intended and what is not.
I don’t have much faith in home inspectors. They are only liable for the cost of the inspection. What is the liability for a NRVIA?
Also it’s difficult to gauge their abilities. I would ask for an example of a recent inspection report. If a inspector takes 8 hr to inspect an RV that’s a long day! Then they still need to write the inspection report!
At $900 per inspection that’s $100 per hour 😳. At those hi rates they shouldn’t miss a lick.
If you don't have much faith in home inspectors, you probably won't have much more faith in RV inspectors either Tom. As far as gauging their abilities, that's the whole idea of going through a certification process. So an NRVIA certified RV inspector has met a very high standard of criteria that means that they are well trained and qualified to perform a quality inspection. If you require more than that you will not be satisfied with almost anyone. And as far as getting a sample of a recent inspection report, we can't do that. That's because the report belongs to each inspection client only. And it would be a breach of confidence to share it with anyone else without their specific written approval. Finally, if you have a problem with trained and skilled people being paid more than $100/hour you will never be able to get your RV fixed at almost any repair shop as the going hourly rate there is often $150/hour or even more. I don't wish to offend you, but honestly if you started bringing up all of these negative viewpoints with me while discussing your inspection needs, I would personally suggest that you find someone else to do the inspection. The great thing about being an RV inspector is that we can decide who we wish to work with and who we choose to avoid.
@@RVInspectionAndCare what an excellent reply. I'm also NRVIA certified so I know you are correct. In addition, the reports are around 75 pages long with anywhere from 80 to over 100 photos. There are hundreds of items on our checklist, hence the amount of time taken in the inspection.
Well you never addressed the cost. A range of price per hour would of been good information.
Well then, try this video - ua-cam.com/video/epTXDS96kZE/v-deo.html
The RV Inspection Report only tells you the condition of the RV but it doesn't give you a Desirable For Purchase Score (DFPS).... so it's almost USELESS if you dont know what you are reading or what the report really says... 90% of RV Inspection Reports give you a very GENERIC detail about the condition of the RV.... It's a pre-written report that almost every inspector uses in the industry..... and all the inspector has to do is to input the RV info and what he found during the inspection... very general and generic..... there is no thorough analysis of the condition of the RV ..the report only tells you what it is but does not tell you why it is that way.... for example, the report says, " engine bay is wet and covered with oil." But it does tell you why it's covered with oil and where the oil originated from, how serious the problem is, and how much it could/would cost to repair..... some RV Inspectors are con artists and looking to scam inexperienced RV buyers just like home appraisers and home inspectors are doing to home buyers... the whole inspection industry is rotten to its core and has terrible ethical problems.... a much better alternative to an RV Inspector is an RV mechanic... the mechanic will tell you exactly what is wrong with the RV from a mechanical, electronical, and structural point of view, and how much you will have to pay to get the problems fixed because he has seen the good, the bad, the ugly, and the stupid of all RVs.. The RV inspector is like a 2nd set of eyes that tell you what it sees... the RV mechanic tells you what's wrong and why... the RV Mechanic will give you a DFPS based on his findings and analysis of the identified problems... Any RV that scores below 70% on the DFPS scale is a LEMON. Now you PROSPECT RV buyers have to decide who's more worthy of your $900...the RV Inspector or the RV Mechanic.......I will go with the mechanic....
Sorry Argentum but I have to disagree with almost everything you said in this comment. You are entitled to your opinions but my viewpoint on this subject is very different from yours. Here are my points of disagreement - 1) The report that NRVIA inspectors provide is very detailed. It is not generic. And it is not pre-written. The vast majority of people buying RVs do not have technical or advanced knowledge about them, so the report has to transfer the technical know-how of the inspector into a multi-media form that is easily readable and understandable by the prospective buyer. And almost all of us use software that guides us through the inspection so nothing is missed. Our clients usually rave about the report they receive and the knowledge it imparts. 2) You paint the whole RV inspection industry with a very wide brush and insist that it is "rotten to its core and has terrible ethical problems". However the vast majority of RV inspectors I know are very competent and ethical. They want to produce a quality report that accurately describes the condition of the RV being inspected at the time of inspection and they succeed at doing that very well. 3) In contrast to RV inspectors that you view in such a poor light you seem to have an overly rosy viewpoint about RV repair technicians. My experience has actually been just the opposite. Whereas there are many fine and competent RV technicians that I have encountered, there is also a number of those who claim they are qualified to handle repair issues when they clearly are not. This is why many RV owners have to keep returning to dealerships and repair facilities to get the same problems fixed over and over again. I am not in any way saying that RV technicians as a whole are not competent. But I have encountered more issues with them than any of the inspectors I know. 4) As I said in this video, it is not the job of the RV inspector to decide whether or not an RV is a lemon, especially not basing it on some arbitrary score. It is simply our job to explain clearly what the issues are with that particular RV and how serious they may be. The prospective buyer can decide for themselves whether they wish to buy or not but at least they have a clear picture of what needs to be addressed to bring that RV up to acceptable standards.
I definitely ask Inspectors if they would put their wife/daughter in it! They tell me the truth every time! 😂
Thanks for watching and commenting too!
There should be a universal price set by the state government for RV inspection...
Once again, I disagree with this opinion. I would not want the payment for my skills and abilities to be regulated by government any more than a car mechanic, construction worker, plumber, or any other skilled profession should be subjected to that kind of oversight. If someone does not want to pay the price I charge for an RV inspection there are other inspectors who are free to charge less and get the business instead.