Have you ever regretted a caravan, camper trailer or motorhome purchase because you were not entirely sure about its true condition?
Or perhaps you're new to the market and need some independent advice to guide you in making the right decision when buying your first caravan or camper.
Part of the Carsales Group that also owns caravancampingsales, RedBook Inspect has for the past four years been offering an easy to use, mobile pre-purchase inspection service that assists potential buyers in making smart and informed decisions.
Available in most capital cities around Australia, the RedBook Inspect pre-purchase service makes it easier for potential buyers to get a professional and impartial opinion on the overall condition of a caravan, camper trailer or motorhome.
The inspections involve an inspector travelling to the seller’s location, completing an inspection, and providing a detailed report including high resolution photos and a star rating report based on the condition of the RV.
While the inspection is a visual-based service, the highly skilled inspectors can highlight various issues and concerns including any items that may require immediate attention.
Redbook Inspect also offers a nationwide pre-purchase inspections for cars, motorcycles and boats, so you could also use the service when searching for your next tow vehicle or motorised toy.
While items may vary depending on the type of RV, a RedBook Inspect pre-purchase inspection generally includes the following:
Exterior/Underbody, including lights, rust, previous body repairs, panels, tyres, suspension, chassis, and whether electrical and piping components are secured.
Interior condition, including drawers, cupboards, fit-out and appliances. Inspectors also check for signs of wear and tear and whether items like windows and doors open and close properly.
A motorhome engine inspection including detecting any engine fault codes using a scan tool that plugs into the engine management system, as well as other motorhome-specific items including heater/air conditioner, horn, seat belts, locks and warning lights.
Other checks, depending on the type of RV, include the handbrake, tow hitch, jockey wheel, axle condition, and whether electrical components are in place and secure.
Many inspections also cover off trailer identifiers and structural condition, along with registration, write-off, stolen and finance status. Motorhomes under 4500kg are also road-tested.
RedBook Inspect’s pre-purchase inspection service is easy to book and gives you peace of mind. You’ll receive the detailed digital report instantly after the inspection is processed.
The inspections are carried out by trusted mobile inspectors across Australia (excluding Northern Territory, the ACT and Tasmania), who will be able to single out issues that may not be obvious to the untrained eye.
The cost per inspection is $150 for a tent/camper trailer, $270 for a caravan or pop-top, and $350 for a campervan or motorhome.
Complete inspections are available in the following areas: Sydney, Newcastle/Central Coast, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Melbourne, Geelong, Perth and Adelaide.
Another option from Redbook Inspect, when you're unable to book a physical inspection or when you're buying a used RV sight unseen, is a Remote Video Assessment. Click here for further details.
To book a RedBook Inspect pre-purchase inspection, head to www.redbookinspect.com.au/prepurchase/caravan.