How to inspect your rented RV


You’ve spent weeks planning your next getaway. You’ve had your annual leave approved and have stocked up all you need to bring along in the RV you’ve rented. Only to realise the first night that there’s no hot water in the shower. Not to mention the shower isn’t draining either. Uh oh. So now you’re ankle deep in cold water wondering where you went wrong. Understandably, you were so excited to get going that you drove away in your rental before performing a thorough inspection.
Skip learning the hard way and take heed of our advice. Don’t leave for your next getaway without first ticking off the below.
Given an RV is essentially a house on wheels, you’re likely to be spending a decent amount of quality time relaxing inside. So it’s important to check that all of the appliances and amenities are in tip top shape and working properly. Ensure that cold air blows out of the air conditioner, and alternatively warm air when the heater is switched on. Test the stovetops all turn on and heat up. Or if it’s gas, ensure that it lights when met with a flame. Inspect the fridge and freezer, checking that they run. And ensure there are no signs of mould from past use. Switch on the taps and run both cold and hot water in the kitchen and bathroom sinks and check that the sinks are properly draining.
Depending on what other amenities you have, give everything a once over and ensure it does as it should. For example, in some RV’s the benches convert into beds to allow for multiple sleepers. Make sure to test that everything works, or the sleepless nights could and likely will send you insane!
Does the awning open as it’s supposed to? Does the step drop down from the doorway correctly and does it hold your weight when you stand on it? Are you sure that the doors lock and unlock properly? Just as you did with the interior, walk around the exterior and test that all does as it is supposed to.
A huge reason we urge you to inspect your RV before driving off is to check for any damage. It can be extremely difficult to prove that you’re not the one to blame when you return the RV and things have gone wrong. Meaning you may lose your deposit if you can’t prove the damage was pre-existing. Pointing out any flaws and taking photos with timestamps before taking off can save you a whole heap of stress in the long run! Check for any obvious signs of damage like cracks, dents and significant marks that are more than wear and tear on both the interior and exterior of the RV. And have a look around the bathroom to ensure there isn’t any mildew or mould that may have occurred due to a lack of ventilation in past use.
You are driving this thing after all, so it’s important to ensure before you hit the open road that you’ll have the best chance at a safe trip. First inspect the RV’s tyres. Given the vehicle is heavy, the tyres being in good condition is imperative. Look at the level of inflation and the tread.
Then, just as the mechanic does before your annual pink slip is approved on your car, make sure to check that the indicators, brake lights and headlights are functioning. If any of these functions are not working you should bring it to the rental facilities attention immediately as the RV should not be rented until they’ve been fixed.
Although it may take you a solid 15 minutes to be sure all is as it should be, it is perhaps some of the most valuable time you can invest before heading off on your trip. Got any others you tick off before your adventure? Let us know by shooting us a message on Facebook or Instagram.