The exact price depends on the type of RV, its size, its condition, and how much of the RV you want inspected.
There isn’t one set price for every RV inspection. A small travel trailer takes less time to check than a large Class A motorhome with several slide-outs, a generator, and more appliances.
Here are some of the biggest things that can affect the price.
The type of camper you own makes a difference.
A pop-up camper or small travel trailer usually has fewer systems to inspect. A fifth wheel or motorhome may have several slide-outs, more plumbing, a larger electrical system, a generator, leveling equipment, and other parts that take more time to check.
In general, a larger RV takes longer to inspect.
There is simply more roof, more exterior area, more windows and seals, and usually more equipment inside.
Not every RV inspection is the same.
A basic inspection may focus on the main safety and operating items. A full pre-purchase inspection can take much longer because the inspector may test nearly every major system in the RV.
Older campers can take more time to inspect, especially if there are signs of previous repairs, water damage, electrical problems, or worn-out parts.
If an inspector finds something that needs a closer look, additional testing may also be needed.
While prices vary from shop to shop, here is a simple idea of what you might expect:
These are general price ranges, not fixed prices. Always ask what is included before scheduling an inspection.
A $250 inspection that checks only a handful of items is very different from a $600 inspection that takes several hours and checks the roof, appliances, plumbing, electrical system, propane system, slide-outs, tires, and other parts of the RV.
What gets checked depends on the type of inspection you choose.
A good RV inspection may include:
For a motorhome, there may also be mechanical items related to the engine, transmission, steering, suspension, and chassis.
Before paying for an inspection, ask for a clear list of what is included.
If you’re buying a used RV, a pre-purchase inspection is usually more detailed than a normal checkup.
For many campers and travel trailers, you may spend around $350 to $700 for a thorough pre-purchase inspection. Large motorhomes can cost more.
That may sound like a lot when you’re already spending money on an RV, but consider what the inspection could find.
A camper can look great inside and still have problems such as:
Finding one major problem before you buy can easily make the inspection worth the cost.
An inspection is especially helpful when buying a used RV from a private seller. You may only get an hour or two to look at the camper yourself, and it can be difficult to know what you’re looking for.
Even current RV owners can benefit from having their camper checked from time to time.
Minnesota weather is hard on RVs. Campers sit through freezing temperatures, snow, ice, rain, summer heat, and big temperature changes. Roof sealant can crack. Batteries can weaken. Water can find its way through small openings.
Catching those problems early can help keep a small repair from becoming a much larger one.
There are several good times to have an RV checked.
This is one of the most important times for an inspection. Don’t assume everything works just because the camper looks clean.
Minnesota winters can be tough on campers. Before your first trip of the year, it’s smart to check for leaks, tire problems, battery issues, plumbing damage, and other problems.
If you’re getting ready to drive hundreds or thousands of miles, checking the RV beforehand can give you a chance to fix problems while you’re still close to home.
For most privately owned recreational vehicles, the RV inspection we’re talking about here is a maintenance or pre-purchase inspection rather than a state-required annual inspection.
Minnesota does have an annual inspection program for certain commercial motor vehicles, so the rules can be different if a vehicle is being used commercially or falls into one of the state’s regulated vehicle categories.
If you’re unsure which rules apply to your RV, it’s a good idea to check based on how the vehicle is registered and used.
You can definitely do an initial walk-around yourself.
Look closely at the roof, ceiling, walls, floors, tires, appliances, plumbing, and storage areas. Turn things on instead of taking the seller’s word that they work.
Pay close attention to musty smells, stains on the ceiling, soft floors, bubbling exterior walls, cracked sealant, and signs of old water leaks.
The problem is that some RV issues aren’t easy to spot without experience.
That’s why a professional inspection can be useful when you’re spending thousands of dollars on a used camper.
It can be tempting to call around and choose whoever gives you the lowest price.
Instead, ask what you’re getting for that price.
Whether you already own a camper or you’re looking at buying one, knowing its condition can save you a lot of headaches later.
We work with campers and RVs and can help you figure out what needs attention, what can wait, and what should be repaired before you hit the road.