New Travel Trailer Pre-Delivery Inspection List

It is important to inspect your travel trailer prior to taking delivery. The inspection should be done in bright daylight. Never perform a travel trailer pre-delivery inspection at night. Any problems noted during the inspection must be corrected by the dealer. If it is a problem than is not easily resolved but it is one that you can live with, ask for a discount or refuse delivery.

The Exterior

Walk around the exterior of the travel trailer and inspect it from top to bottom. Look for missing or mismatched panels, dents, dings, cracks, and loose seals. Check that all windows and doors open and close easily. Problems in these areas indicate damage in transit.

Undercarriage

Look underneath the travel trailer. Make sure there are no loose wires. Check to see that all tanks and flooring are intact and look secure. Notice any sagging or drooping areas. If you notice any of these situations refuse delivery and demand to see proof of repair before you accept the travel trailer. After running all interior systems, check under the travel trailer for leaks and drips.

Inside the Travel Trailer

Check inside the travel trailer. Look for signs of damage in transit such as mismatched wall and ceiling panels. Make sure that the floor plan is the one you ordered. Check colors, cabinets and all options to make sure that they meet your standards. Bring a copy of your sales order with you that has all of the options and colors you chose. If there is a problem, have it corrected or ask for a discount.

Systems Check

Request that the dealer have electrical hookups, water and propane for you to use in order to check all of the travel trailer's systems. Run the fresh water in all sinks and showers. Flush the toilet. Systematically turn on and operate all electrical appliances and light fixtures. This includes microwaves, TV, stereo, refrigerator in electric mode, lights, AC, and slide outs. Run all propane appliances like the cook top, oven, refrigerator in propane mode, and heater. If there is a washer and dryer, run both to be sure they are working. Check all carbon monoxide, fire, smoke, and propane detectors to make sure they are working. Make sure that the travel trailer does not have a musty or moldy smell. Sign off only after you are satisfied that the travel trailer has passed your pre-delivery inspection.

Using this checklist will ensure that the travel trailer you purchased is ready for your camping adventures. Even the most honest dealers make mistakes. Going over everything will give you piece of mind that the travel trailer is safe and ready for use.