What is a Pre-Owned Pre-Purchase Inspection?
The aim of the AWS Pre-Owned Pre-Purchase Inspections is to provide a potential buyer with a detailed report on the visual and/or operational condition of the caravan or motorhome they are looking to purchase before they commit to buy. Along with this, it will also cover other important areas such as the operation of a caravan-mover, if fitted, which is often a deciding factor when purchasing and can be carried out a place to suit you.
Pre-Owned Pre-Purchase Inspections are aimed at both trade and private sales of pre-owned caravans and motorhomes and is not intended to replace a full service.
For more information as what is covered, see here the full Pre-Owned, Pre-Purchase Inspection Report.
Find an AWS Workshop for a Caravan and Motorhome Pre-Purchase Inspection
Use our Find an Approved Workshop tool to locate an AWS workshop in your local area. Select the radio button labelled ‘Pre-Owned Pre-Purchase Inspections’ where a full list of participating workshops will be displayed.
What is Included in a Pre-Purchase Motorhome Inspection?
The purpose of a Pre-Purchase Inspection is to give you a clear, detailed understanding of the true condition of the motorhome before you commit to buying it. Workshops approved under the Approved Workshop Scheme follow a strict, industry-standard inspection checklist to ensure every critical component is checked thoroughly.
This includes:
- Interior Safety Checks- Damp test, gas checks, electrical checks, vents and drop holes.
- Exterior Safety Checks- Chassis, hitch, tow coupling, breaking mechanisms, suspension checks, reflectors, road lights, caravan-mover.
- Appliance Operation Checks- Heating system, water heating, fridge., cooker, hob. Water pump, battery charger, ventilation.
- Tyre Age & Condition Checks- Checks of all tyres.
Why do I need a Pre-Owned Inspection Before Buying?
Pre-Owned Pre-Purchase Inspections from AWS can help identify any hidden problems you may not be aware of before you buy, which if undetected, could lead to costly repairs.
Pre-Owned caravans and motorhomes often come with hidden problems such as water ingress, mould, electrical faults, worn suspension and damage caused by wear or accidents. These issues may not be visible on the surface and often people rely on the seller’s honesty to disclose all issues. While pre-purchase inspections are not legally required before purchase of a caravan, they are highly recommended to safeguard the buyer from future costs to repair already existing damage.
How Long Does a Used Caravan Pre-Purchase Inspection Take?
A Caravan pre-purchase inspection typically takes 2-4 hours. This however depends on the size, age and condition of the caravan. For an accurate estimation, contact an AWS approved workshop using our find a workshop tool.
When is the best time to book a pre-purchase caravan inspection?
The best time to book a Pre-Purchase Caravan Inspection is as soon as you’re seriously considering buying the caravan, ideally before you pay a deposit or commit to a sale. Good-quality used caravans sell quickly, and arranging an inspection early helps you secure your spot and avoid missing out.
By scheduling your inspection promptly, you’ll get an accurate picture of the caravan’s condition, avoid potential surprises, and enjoy greater confidence when negotiating the final price.
Special Promotion!
Get £50 OFF any warranty purchased with Engineer Aftercare Ltd within 12 months of a Pre-Owned Pre-Purchase Inspection carried out by an AWS member and quote 'AWSPPI' as the promotion code.
