FAQ
Isn't the dealer inspection sufficient?
You would think so, wouldn’t you? But the problem is, dealers are in business to make money. So paying their staff technicians to spend 6 to 10 hours inspecting each rig is money out of their pocket. Even worse, they don’t want to spend their profits fixing any issues found. So there is no incentive for them to do comprehensive inspections. In fact, they have every reason not to find and fix issues.
How much does an inspection cost?
The cost is based on the size of the specific RV and how many things need to be inspected. For example, how many air conditioners, bathrooms, and slide-outs does it have? Does it have a generator, leveling jacks, and solar panels? That’s why we ask for the make, model, and year of the RV to determine a fair price based on the amount of time the inspection will take.
Unlike many RV inspectors, we offer three different levels of inspection: Essential, Approved Plus, and Premier. There is no right or wrong level. It is up to you to decide which is the best option based on your specific comfort level, RV experience, and budget.
What areas do you service?
We service all of Ventura, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and San Diego Counties.
How long does an inspection take?
Inspections take between 6 and 10 hours to perform, depending on the type of RV and which level of inspection you choose. You will typically get the written report emailed to you within 24 to 48 hours.
What does the inspection include?
- 165+ Points of Inspection
- 70+ Page Detailed Report
- 50 to 80+ Photos Included
- Chassis and Interiors
- Detailed Report Delivered within 24 to 48 Hours
- Create a Request List for Dealers or Sellers from within Any Report
How is an inspection performed?
For us to perform a quality RV inspection, you must ensure access to the RV and provide full hook-up services, which include the following items:
- Running water
- Appropriate electrical service (30, 50 AMP)
- A stable, dry, and level parking area
- Keys to all inspection areas, including the engine if it is a motorized vehicle
- Sewage hook-up, if possible. Some items may not be inspected otherwise
- Remotes with batteries for onboard entertainment equipment
- The refrigerator should be running at least 12 hours before inspection if possible.
- If fluid samples are ordered, please run the vehicle’s engine at least 30 minutes the day before the inspection for circulation purposes
We would never ask a client to “not” be present at an inspection because you have a vested interest in the vehicle. However, the inspection process is very tedious, in-depth, and typically takes around 6 to 10 hours to complete. With that in mind, minimizing interruptions will ensure and enhance the quality of the inspection you expect us to perform.
You (the client) will be the only person who receives a completed inspection report. Approved RV will not reveal the results of an inspection verbally to any other party without your expressed consent. Additionally, we will not disclose any inspection findings, test results, or client information without the client’s approval. However, we are obligated to disclose observed hazards that will impact the occupant’s immediate safety and well-being if uncovered during an inspection.
Is fluid testing important?
Don’t inherit someone else’s headache. Fluid analysis reports from NRVIA-certified inspectors show you the condition inside the components (engine, transmission, generator, and cooling system) on the RV you’re purchasing. All fluid samples receive industry-certified laboratory testing, which provides detailed reports indicating whether the fluids are suitable or if the equipment is in proper operating order.
Fluid analysis reports are delivered three to six days from sampling. If time and access to the unit permit, fluid samples can be pulled before the actual inspection to ensure they’re available when the report is complete.
Typical Fluids Analyzed
- RV Motor Oil
- RV Coolant
- RV Transmission Fluid
- RV Generator Oil
- RV Generator Coolant (If Equipped)
- Aqua-Hot/Oasis Fluids (If Equipped)
- Tow Vehicles Can Be Tested as Well
Do You Perform Repair Work?
While Tom is a registered RV technician with the RV Technician Association of America, we primarily perform routine maintenance and safety repair work outside the inspection process. The NRVIA code of ethics does not allow us to perform “repairs” on any RV we’ve inspected for one year from the inspection date. This measure ensures NRVIA inspectors remain impartial third parties for services we provide regarding your RV buying decision.
We do perform some routine maintenance services for customers who have not had an inspection within the last year to help keep your RV working as intended. To secure an appointment within our service area, please call for a quote.
