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RV Life: Top Ten Checks Before Purchasing

We've all been there. We're about to change our lives, but wait! I'm buying my first rig, how do I know what to look for? If I've never owned one before, how do I know where problem areas are? The ten things below are based off of our experience and those of people we know.

rv, which rv is right for me

#1: Water Leaks

Open all cupboard and closet doors and look for discoloration or soft spots. Check the roof and seams for gaps, and inside around the windows. If there's wallpaper and it looks rippled, there is a very good chance there was water damage or still is.


#2: Working Appliances

Turn on each appliance and make sure it works to your liking.

rv appliances

#3: Working Water Pump and Heater

Turn on the water pump and run each faucet, the shower and the toilet to make sure there is hot and cold water and that everything works. If you notice an odour, the P-trap most likely needs to be removed and emptied, or replaced.


#4: Delamination

If the rig you are looking at has fiberglass sides, take a look around the outside and see if there is any "bubbling". Sometimes this involves a bit of light pressing along the outside of the rig to be sure. This is not a make or break for us, but can be if you want a rig in mint condition.

Rv, delamination

#5: Slide Functionality

Extend all the slides out and back in a couple times. Check the seals around them for gaps where water may come in, and the tracks for dependability.


#6: Soft Spots

If there is a soft spot on the floor, walls, in cupboards, on the roof, or sides of the rig, there may be rot inside or water damage. If you don't want to perform a costly repair, or do a gut and reno, stear clear.


#7: Plumbing, Wiring, and Propane Lines

Check all the lines (or bring a professional with you to do so) to ensure there are no propane or water leaks, or damage to the wiring.

Rv plumbing, rv wiring

#8: Windows, Doors and Ceiling Vents

Check the seals on everything to make sure the caulking and sealing has been taken care of regularly, and make sure everything opens and closes properly.


#9: Tanks, Valves, and Caps

Generally speaking, on most used rigs, tank sensors won't work. Look over the tanks (if you can see them) to make sure they don't have leaks, holes, or damage. Make sure all valves are not broken, and that the cap is still on the sewer hookup and not cracked.

rv gas cap, rv oil cap, rv power steering, rv brake fluid

If you are looking at a driveable, lift the hood and make sure the oil, coolant, power steering fluid and brake fluid caps are all there and seal properly. Take a walk to the gas tank and double check the gas cap.


#10: Past DIY "Fixes"

Ask the owner about things they have previously "fixed", kept up with, or done to the rig, and when. Tell them you just want to be aware and that a bit of work here or there doesn't scare you (even if it does, this will make them feel more at ease with letting you know). If they aren't honest, don't seem like honest people, or won't tell you, run. There is more damage than they are letting on.

rv diy

Other than that, check the tires, seat belts (if applicable), air bags (if applicable), and enjoy this beautiful journey! Embrace all this new lifestyle has to offer!


To support us in our work, please check out the links below. We offer quite a few books and courses.




The PYHOOYA Challenge (90 day challenge to change your life)



The Road to PYHOOYA (life changing paperback)


The Road to PYHOOYA (life changing ebook)


Operation PYHOOYA 365: Life By Design (rewrite your life paperback)


Operation PYHOOYA 365: Life By Design (rewrite your life ebook)


The Magic Pill (formula for a better life ebook)


PYHOOYA to Wellness (health guide ebook)


The Whole P.I.E (passive income empire course)


P.I.E For Beginners (passive income empire beginner course)


Blogging For Dollars (complete blogging course)


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