Motorhome buying checklist the 20 minute viewing routine

The 20-Minute Motorhome Inspection Routine

Viewings often fail because they turn into a 'vibe check' rather than a technical inspection. To avoid buying a money pit, you must separate your emotional reaction from the mechanical reality. Use this 20-minute structured routine to objectively assess any motorhome, whether it is a compact Volkswagen California, a luxury Niesmann And Bischoff, or a Bürstner A-class.

Minute 0 to 5: The Exterior Walkaround

Start outside. You are looking for structural integrity and evidence of neglect. In 2026, with many older vans being retrofitted, check for amateur solar installations or poorly sealed roof vents. Before you start, check the Motorhome Models database to see if the specific unit has known recall issues.

• The Shell: Look for water staining or 'pitting' around windows and roof edges. Check for mismatched sealant which suggests a DIY repair. Pay close attention to the seals on Adria or Swift models where roof bars are fitted.
• Tyre Health: Motorhome tyres often have plenty of tread but are dangerously old. Check the 4-digit DOT code (e.g., '1224' means week 12 of 2024). If they are over 5 years old, factor in the cost of a full set. Ensure they are 'CP' (Camping) rated tyres.
• The Underside: Inspect visible chassis areas for excessive corrosion. Look for 'bodges' like expanding foam or fresh underseal used to hide rot. Check the exhaust system and look for oil leaks on the inner wheel rims.
• Windows: Check for delamination (the two panes splitting) or heavy scratching. Ensure all window stays lock into place.

Minute 5 to 12: The Interior Deep-Dive

Step inside and close the door. Your senses are your best tools here. If you are looking at a Campervan Model, space is tighter, making damp smells even more obvious.

• The Sniff Test: Open every high-level cupboard and the wardrobe. A musty, 'old tent' smell is a primary indicator of ingress. Check inside the 'over-cab' bed area if viewing a coachbuilt model like an Auto-Trail Imala.
• The Wallboard Press: Use your thumb to press around window frames and corners. Any 'softness' or 'spring' in the wallboard usually indicates active damp. If you have a damp meter, look for readings above 20% (indicating potential issues).
• Floor Solidity: Walk heavily near the entrance and the washroom. If the floor feels 'spongy,' it may be suffering from delamination (the foam core separating from the plywood). This is a common issue in older Elddis models.
• Soft Furnishings: Lift cushions to check for mould on the underside, especially in models like the Bailey Autograph. Check the condition of the mattress in fixed-bed layouts like the Coachman Laser 665.

Minute 12 to 20: Systems, Weights, and Paperwork

The final minutes are for the 'boring' details that determine if the vehicle is legal and safe for your needs.

• Payload & Weights: Ask to see the stage 2 build plate (often under the bonnet or inside the door frame). Use our Motorhome Weight Checker to ensure you have enough remaining payload for your gear after passengers are accounted for.
• Habitation History: A full service history is good, but a consistent Habitation Check history (ideally to NCC standards) is vital. It proves the gas, electrics, and water systems have been tested annually.
• Belted Seats: Confirm that the number of 'berths' matches the number of 3-point belted travel seats. Do not assume side-facing benches are legal for travel; modern UK regulations are strict on this.
• Layout Practicality: Sit in the lounge and lie on the bed. If you are looking at a Chausson S 514, ensure the transition from day-to-night mode isn't too cumbersome.

Before making an offer, step outside and take five minutes of silence. If you cannot clearly explain the mechanical and structural condition of the van, you aren't ready to buy it yet. For more options, you can browse used motorhomes or Find a Dealer near you. If you are considering a conversion instead, use our Campervan Conversion Checker.

Frequently Asked Questions