If you’re looking to buy a new motorhome, you may be wondering what a habitation check entails. The basic check covers around 50 individual ‘checks’ of the water, gas and electric systems. Before the service, the engineers will do a walk-around video of the motorhome and advise you of any potential areas for water ingress. Water systems are also checked, including pumping and supply, and damaged gas pipes are replaced.
Basic habitation checks cover around 50 individual ‘checks’ to the electric, gas and water systems
A basic habitation check is an important part of keeping a motorhome safe and comfortable. This inspection covers a range of items, from faulty appliances to leaks and damp. It also covers safety checks, such as carbon monoxide leakage and gas appliances that may be faulty. Here’s what you can expect from a basic motorhome habitation check:
The habitation check list includes items such as well drilling, septic system design, and excavation, leveling, sealing roof joints, placing propane tanks, plumbing gas connections, and sealing walls. It also covers such details as finishing the interior trim and putting up skirting around the perimeter of the motorhome. Finally, if you are a newbie, you’ll need to clean the inside of the motorhome thoroughly to make it move-in-ready.
Some motorhomes may be subject to local bylaws that prevent them from staying overnight on certain roads. These laws are enforced by local authorities. However, motorhome travel abroad can be a joy in the winter, when it is often uncrowded and peaceful. While preparing for a holiday abroad, a basic check list will ensure that the vehicle is safe to travel.
Approved workshops are a great way to carry out a habitation check
If you have just purchased a motorhome, it is essential that you take it for an annual habitation check. Approved workshops are those who are members of the Approved Workshop Scheme. These workshops have formal qualifications and abide by a strict code of practice for servicing and testing motorhomes and caravans. Moreover, if you have an older motorhome, it is vital to get it serviced by a specialist, as it could have hidden problems or mechanical issues that are dangerous to drive.
The habitation check is a thorough inspection of a motorhome’s interior, including all safety elements, bodywork checks, and damp-checking. The process also involves checking all the windows and doors for any water ingress. This is not an engine service – it is a thorough check of the motorhome’s “back end” and does not include the engine.
DIY habitation checks are not as comprehensive as a professional habitation check
If you want to learn how to conduct a DIY habitation check on your motorhome, the best book to use is the Leisure Vehicle Repair Manual. This book is an indispensable guide and will serve as your constant companion. If you follow the instructions carefully, you can detect any potential problems early, saving you time and money. You can also learn how to conduct tests for water ingress and carbon monoxide.
A professional habitation check is more thorough than a DIY check, which involves examining your motorhome thoroughly from top to bottom. While it is not required by law, if you are renting your motorhome for commercial purposes, you will need a habitation check each year. It is also advisable to check with your motorhome manufacturer if you plan to use it for commercial purposes.
Cost of a habitation check for a motorhome
Most motorhomes require a habitation check on a regular basis. It’s an inspection of the motorhome’s habitation areas, including the gas safety, window lock security, damp check, and more. The habitation check should take about three hours to complete. This service is mandatory for new motorhomes in order to retain their warranties. It also serves to preserve the value of your motorhome, as prospective buyers will want to see a comprehensive history of services. They will also be turned off by any breaks in the service history, so this is an essential part of retaining its value.
The cost of a habitation check for a camper van or motorhome varies, ranging from PS50 to PS200. The cost of the check depends on the age of the vehicle and the condition of the motorhome, with older vehicles and camper vans having more problems than newer ones. A habitation check for a motorhome or camper van isn’t expensive, especially if you’re looking to buy a used one.