Question 1

Why do I need an RV inspection?

Accepted Answer

Peace of mind!  Whether you are purchasing from a dealership or a private party, having the RV inspected by an NRVIA Inspector  will provide the peace of mind of knowing that the coach is in good working condition prior to laying out any money.  If a problem is discovered during the inspection, you can negotiate any repairs into the purchase price, have the seller repair the item, or, in the worst case, walk away!

Question 2

Why would I need an inspection on a new RV?

Accepted Answer

Unfortunately manufacturers cannot keep up with the demand for new RV’s and units are arriving at the dealerships with defects from the factory. The dealership is suppose to do a pre-delivery inspection (PDI) on each unit it receives from the factory prior to being sold, but they don’t have the manpower or time to do this properly due to the demands of the marketplace on them. Plus, the PDI will not uncover any hidden problems that came from the factory. Consequently new units are being sold and leaving the dealership with problems that will have to be addressed. That means you having to make an appointment at the service department to bring the unit back, waiting on parts and missing out on trips.Protect yourself by having the RV you wish to purchase inspected before completing the sale. That way any problems that are found can be fixed prior to you taking possession and leaving the dealership. Overall, it will be a better buying experience for you.

Question 3

I've owned an RV before;  why should I get one inspected?

Accepted Answer

It is easy for buyers to focus more on how the coach looks and what amenities it has, and to forget about the rest of the unit. A certified inspector has been trained to methodically follow an inspection checklist to ensure the exterior has been examined and all major and life-safety systems have been tested.Who wouldn’t want a little added peace of mind on their purchase?

Question 4

How long does an RV Inspection take?

Accepted Answer

Generally, an in-depth inspection will take anywhere from 4-8 hours, depending on the type and size of the RV and the number of installed features.

Question 5

What is the RV Inspection process?

Accepted Answer

To give you the most thorough inspection, it is best to have the unit hooked up at a campground or on a level site with full hookups. The area around the unit needs to be clear of any obstructions that would prevent me from accessing anything on the roof, sides, end caps or underneath the RV. I cannot examine or test anything I cannot access.·     Sign the pre-inspection contract and pay for the inspection.·     The RV needs to be hooked up to power, water, and sewer with the gray and black water holding tanks empty. The refrigerator should be turned on at least 12 hours before the inspection to allow it to cool.· All of the aisles, appliances, furniture, doors, and RV-related systems should be clear and easily accessible. Ideally, all the owner's possessions should be removed. I need to be able to look in, under, and around everything.·     The on-board water tank should be at least 1/3 full of water.·     All RV keys, remote controls and manuals should be made available.·     The propane tanks need to have propane in them so that I can test the system.·     The batteries need to be charged.·     If a generator is installed, it needs to have fuel in it so that it can be tested.·     Ideally the slides need to be extended or there needs to be room to extend the slides as they will be tested.·     The client does not need to be present  for  the inspection process. I will call you towards the end of the inspection so you have time to come back.I do not provide power cords, water or sewer hoses, electrical adapters, connectors, generator fuel or oil, propane or batteries. Please make sure that any or all of these items are available prior to the inspection.Due to insurance regulations, I will not drive any motorhome or motor vehicle.

Question 6

I have found a great RV to buy, but I live a long distance away.  How can you help me?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can. Many of our clients live outside the area where they found an RV. DJs RV Services LLC conducts inspections in Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, and Florida. If we are not close to the RV to be inspected within the time frame you need it done, we can recommend another NRVIA-certified inspector closer to it.

Question 7

Why do I need an Independant RV Inspection?

Accepted Answer

We are an experienced, unbiased, and impartial inspection service that, in accordance with our code of ethics, has no financial interest in the transaction. The inspection we perform provides detailed information about the current operating condition of the RV you are planning to purchase. If everything is working and in good operating condition, the report will confirm that what the seller said and what you thought were true. However, when components are not working, the report lets you, the buyer, know the RV's true condition before you purchase it.

Question 8

I have found a great RV.  When does DJs RV Services get involved?

Accepted Answer

It seems to work best if you, the buyer, find the RV you are interested in purchasing and negotiate a price that you are willing to pay based on the assumption that what the seller has represented to you is correct and that the purchase is contingent on completion of a professional inspection. Be clear about what you expect and get it in writing. Your independent inspector will inspect the RV using the NRVIA detailed inspection checklist. The NRVIA inspection report will identify in detail the current state of the RV. After the inspection is completed, report reviewed and pictures analyzed, you then decide how to proceed. If what you expected was confirmed to be true, you can buy with more confidence. If the inspection finds issues that concern you, then you have alternatives. You can renegotiate the purchase price based on the inspection report or you can request the seller to fix the items that concern you or you can walk away from the deal. However, make sure that you specify, and put in writing, that the deal is contingent on an inspection from an independent inspector of your choice to confirm what the seller has represented to be true.

Question 9

How long does it take to perform an inspection?

Accepted Answer

The duration of an inspection depends on the type of unit. Obviously, Class A Diesel Pushers have more working components than a 20′ Travel Trailer. Inspections are going to take several hours (maybe 3 to 10 hours) to complete.

Question 10

Why should I have my engine, generator, and transmission fluids tested?

Accepted Answer

Internal parts depend on oils and coolants to remain stable between service intervals. Oil and coolant analysis tells you when your oils and coolants experience any signs of early breakdown or contamination. Not only does fluid sampling check them for signs of thermal breakdown, mechanical breakdown, or contamination, but the lab can also check for any indication of internal part wear. Oil and coolant analysis allows you to detect anything that might need your attention long before it can result in road calls, expensive repairs, or lost travel time

Question 11

How long does it take to receive my inspection report?

Accepted Answer

We always give you a verbal recap at the end of the inspection. Most clients should expect the report to be ready within 24 hours (Many times the same day) of your inspection. We will make every effort to have it to you by the end of the inspection day. If you had fluid samples taken during your inspection, those reports can take 5-7 business days from the date of inspection and will likely be sent to you after you’ve already received your inspection findings.

Question 12

How are payments accepted?

Accepted Answer

All invoicing is done through a QuickBooks merchant account.  An invoice will be sent to you via e-mail, and you can pay it with your credit card.  Full payment must be made prior to the inspection starting.​

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