Buying Guide

The RV Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist (Before You Buy)

June 2026 · 5 min read

A used RV can be a great deal — or a money pit with a fresh coat of wax. Before you sign anything, run through this checklist (or have us do a professional pre-purchase inspection).

Start with the Roof and Seals

Water damage is the #1 hidden killer of RVs. Check the roof for cracked sealant and soft spots, and look for stains on interior ceilings and around windows. A musty smell is a major red flag.

Check for Soft Floors and Delamination

Walk every inch of the floor for soft or spongy spots. On the exterior walls, sight down the sides for bubbling or rippling — a sign of trapped moisture, called delamination.

Test Every System

Run the AC and furnace, fire up the fridge on both propane and electric, and test the water heater, slides, awning, leveling jacks, and every outlet. Things that “just need a little work” add up fast.

Tires, Brakes, and Bearings

Check the tire date codes — RV tires age out around 5–7 years regardless of tread. On towables, ask when the wheel bearings were last serviced.

Get the Paperwork

Title, service records, and any warranty history. For a purchase this size, an unbiased professional inspection is cheap insurance.

Buying in Central Texas? We do detailed pre-purchase inspections with a written report. Book one here or call (254) 495-5050.

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