Shonky caravan buying survey announced

Disgruntled new and first-time caravan buyers are being urged to participate in an Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) survey about possible consumer law issues in the industry.

The consumer watchdog said it has received more than 1300 reports about the caravan industry over the past five years, with the most common complaints concerning retailers selling new caravans that do not meet consumer guarantees, and faults leading to disputes between manufacturers and retailers about which party is responsible for the cost of repairs.

“The caravan industry has experienced strong sales growth in recent years, and this is expected to increase as more Australians choose to travel domestically rather than overseas due to the ongoing pandemic,” ACCC Deputy Chair Delia Rickard said.

“We are looking for further information from consumers and industry about the issues they have had with their caravans and their experience trying to get their concerns fixed. This information will help to inform our future work, including possible enforcement action.”

Earlier this year the Australian consumer watchdog said it will continue to go after RV manufacturers and dealers that fob off consumers stuck with poorly built or non-compliant caravans.

The ACCC also indicated it would take legal action against RV operators if necessary, despite limited success in a recent Federal Court case involving Jayco.

The ACCC has published separate online surveys for buyers and retailers of new caravans to fill out.

The purchaser survey focuses on the sales process and whether consumers had any subsequent faults with their new caravans, and, if so, whether they were able to have these resolved under the warranty or the consumer guarantees under the Australian Consumer Law.

The retailer survey focuses on any disputes with consumers about warranties and consumer guarantees, and whether retailers have had any indemnification disputes with manufacturers.

Both surveys will remain open until 10 December 2021

“If you are a retailer of new caravans or a consumer who has purchased a new caravan, please take the time to complete the survey,” Ms Rickard said.

“Empowering consumers and improving industry compliance with consumer guarantees, with a focus on high value goods including motor vehicles and caravans, is a current compliance and enforcement priority for the ACCC.”