The Ultimate Used Caravan Inspection Checklist

TL;DR: The Essential Used Caravan Inspection

• Damp is the Dealbreaker: Always use a moisture meter; readings over 20% are a major red flag requiring immediate investigation.
• Safety First: Check tyre date codes (replace if 5+ years old) and ensure the CRiS VIN matches all windows, the chassis, and the logbook.
• Systems Check: Never buy without seeing the gas, 12V, and 230V systems functioning on-site, including the heating and water pump.
• Weight Matters: Use our Caravan Towing Calculator to ensure your car can legally tow the MTPLM of the unit.
• Service History: Prioritise vans with a full AWS (Approved Workshop Scheme) habitation history to protect resale value.

Buying a used caravan in 2026 remains the smartest way to enter the market, avoiding the steep initial depreciation of new models like the Bailey Alicanto or Swift Challenger. However, the trick is to inspect with a clear system, then price the van against its true condition. Use this step-by-step guide on-site with the seller.

1. Before You Travel: The Pre-Viewing Filter

Don't waste a journey. Before setting off to see a Swift Basecamp or a family-sized Elddis Riva 554, ask the seller these qualifying questions:

1. Weight Check: Confirm the MTPLM (Maximum Technical Permissible Laden Mass) against your tow car's limit. Check the noseweight limit of your car's towball using our Caravan Towing Calculator.
2. Service History: Ask for the latest habitation report. A full service history is vital for maintaining any remaining manufacturer ingress warranties.
3. Provenance: Verify the CRiS (Central Registration & Identification Scheme) status. For a deeper dive, see our CRiS checks explained guide.
4. The 'Live' Test: Agree in advance that you will test the caravan on electric hook-up (EHU) and gas. If the seller refuses, consider walking away.

2. Exterior and Bodywork Inspection

1. The Stance: Walk around the van from 10 metres away. Look for an uneven stance or sagging, which could indicate axle or suspension failure.
2. Panel Integrity: Inspect for 'pimple' damp (small bubbles under the skin) or ripples that suggest previous accident repairs. Check the awning rails for signs of DIY resealing or gaps in the mastic.
3. Windows and Seals: Look for delamination (windows splitting) or condensation between the panes. Check the rubber seals for cracks or perishing.
4. Locker Check: Open the front gas box. Check the floor for 'sponginess'—a common sign of rot in older models. Ensure the gas regulator is within its 10-year lifespan.

3. The Damp Test (The Most Critical Step)

Damp is the single biggest value-killer in the UK market. Use a pronged moisture meter in all corners, around rooflights, and inside lockers. Pay special attention to the areas around the door and window frames.

• 0-15%: Normal, dry condition.
• 15-20%: Requires monitoring; potential early ingress.
• 20%+: Requires professional investigation and likely repair.

For a detailed walkthrough on using a meter, read our Damp Check Guide.

4. Chassis, Running Gear, and Tyres

1. The Hitch: Inspect the Al-Ko or Winterhoff hitch head. Check the wear indicator on the stabiliser pads. Ensure the breakaway cable is not frayed.
2. Tyre Age: Look for the 4-digit DOT code (e.g., 1224 means week 12 of 2024). Caravan tyres should be replaced every 5 years, regardless of tread depth, due to sidewall UV degradation.
3. Underneath: Inspect the corner steadies. They should wind smoothly. Look for excessive rust on the chassis or 'soft' spots in the marine plywood floor.

5. Internal Systems and Appliances

1. Electrics: Plug into EHU. Test the RCD/MCB trips. Check the 12V system via the battery. Note: Modern LiFePO4 (Lithium) batteries are a premium upgrade over traditional lead-acid.
2. Gas Appliances: Light the hob, grill, and oven. Ensure the flame is blue. Run the Truma or Alde heating system on both gas and electric.
3. Water System: Fill the onboard tank or Aquaroll. Run the pump and check every tap and the shower for leaks. Check the toilet cassette blade and seal for lubrication and ensure the flush works.

6. Pricing Reality Check (2026 Market Estimates)

Use these bands to sense-check the asking price. Condition, especially a 'dry' damp report, dominates the value. Premium models like the Bailey Unicorn Cartagena or Adria Alpina often hold value better than entry-level ranges. Check current Caravan Models to compare specs.

Age Band	Fair Range (Mid-Trim)	Premium/Twin Axle (e.g. Bailey Unicorn)
1-2 Years	70-85% of New	75-90% of New
3-5 Years	55-70% of New	60-75% of New
6-8 Years	40-55% of New	45-60% of New
9-12 Years	30-45% of New	35-50% of New
13+ Years	Condition Led (15-30%)	Condition Led (20-35%)

7. Walk-Away Triggers

• Readings above 25% moisture in structural wall-to-floor joins.
• Mismatched VIN numbers or a missing CRiS logbook.
• Evidence of floor delamination (the floor feels like a trampoline).
• The seller insists on 'cash only' without a formal receipt or proof of ID.
• The caravan smells strongly of air freshener (often used to mask the scent of damp/mould).

Final Steps

Before handing over funds, ensure you have a dated invoice and have checked the Caravan Layouts one last time to ensure it fits your lifestyle. If buying from a dealer, confirm the duration of the warranty—typically 3 to 12 months for used stock. Once satisfied, browse our used caravan listings to compare similar models or find a reputable local dealer.

Frequently Asked Questions