RV inspections are the same as a home inspection in that buyers or sellers hire an independent professional to perform an in depth inspection & then provide their findings in a written report. It’s truly that simple.
As an RV Inspector, I observe & report. I don’t have opinions about whether a unit is “good” or if the seller is asking a “reasonable” price. I have no stake in the future of the RV or any sales related to it.
When people ask me about potentially awkward situations with sellers, my reply is always: “decent sellers never turn away decent inspectors.” Now, I’ve had the good fortune of never being turned away from an inspection, but this is a hot topic among inspectors, sellers, & consumers alike.
Often, sellers will agree to an inspection until they find out how time consuming an inspection by a Level 2 NRVIA Certified Inspector can be or until they see the Pre-Inspection Checklist that details inspection requirements.
Sometimes, there are people advertising RV inspections that don’t abide by the NRVIA’s Code of Ethics or Standards of Practice which makes sellers or dealerships weary.
Decent Inspectors will be up front about the services they provide and follow the Code of Ethics & Standards of Practice set by the NRVIA. Decent sellers will be happy for someone to inspect the RV they have for sale. Any time a seller balks at an independent inspection, that’s your first red flag.
Here are 3 Reasons Decent Sellers Never Turn Away Decent Inspectors:
- They aren’t actively trying to hide any faults or flaws in the RV in regards to its sale.
- They’re decent and want to be involved in an honest and fair sale.
- They have love for or pride in the RV and are genuinely curious about the RV inspection themselves.
Now, like everything in life, there are exceptions. If a private seller can sell their RV to someone who doesn’t want an RV Inspection first, it doesn’t mean they aren’t decent folks. It could just be a time constraint. You have plenty of RVs to choose from, so that’s ok!
The truth of the matter is that dealerships, private sellers, independent inspectors, and consumers need each other. We all benefit from treating each other ethically. When we all work together to make the RV industry better, we all have better environments to work and RV in!