Camper Inspection Checklist (Free PDF)

Take this with you when you view. Tick what you've seen, write down what you haven't.

Free printable PDF

Take the checklist with you

Enter your email for the 3-page PDF — and the weekly Camper Deals Drop of newly screened campers. Unsubscribe any time.

Prefer not to sign up? Download it directly. See our privacy policy.

1. Before you travel to view

Ask for the registration number and check the vehicle details match the advert (year, make, model)
Ask for a photo of the vehicle registration certificate (logbook) — is it recorded as a motor caravan / camper?
Ask when the CRW / CVRT is due and ask for the last certificate
Ask if the vehicle was imported — and for the VRT receipt and Irish registration if so
Ask about known faults, accident damage, damp, and any repairs done
Ask for the last service invoice, the last habitation check and the gas / electrical certificates
Confirm the seller is the registered owner and can show photo ID at the viewing
Arrange to see the vehicle cold (engine not warmed up) and in daylight, ideally dry weather

2. Paperwork at the viewing

3. Outside, chassis and tyres

Body panels: dents, filler, mismatched paint or uneven panel gaps
Rust: sills, wheel arches, door bottoms, chassis rails and rear corners
Underneath: leaks, corrosion, damaged or bodged exhaust, sagging suspension
Roof: cracks, patch repairs, delamination or soft spots; rooflights and vents intact
Sealant and window seals intact — no cracked or peeling seals
Tyres: even wear, no cracks or bulges, and the date code (age) of each tyre
Spare wheel or repair kit present; jack and wheel brace present
All lights, indicators and the reversing sensors / camera work
Habitation door, locker doors and steps open, close and lock properly

4. Damp and habitation area

Ask to see a damp meter reading, or use one: walls, floor, ceiling, around windows and rooflights
Smell: musty or sweet smells in lockers, wardrobes and under beds
Stains, bubbling wallpaper / panelling, or lifting floor covering
Corner joints and rear wall — signs of water ingress or previous repairs
Behind cushions and under beds: mould, condensation or moisture
Windows and blinds operate; fly screens and blackouts intact
Upholstery, cushions and worktops in the condition described

5. Engine, gearbox and drive

6. Gas, electrics and water

7. Layout, seats and beds

Count the belted travel seats and compare with the number of berths advertised
Check seat belts and anchor points — no fraying, all latch and release
Beds are the size described and convert easily; a real person can sleep in them
Headroom, storage and layout work for how you'll actually use it
Payload: ask for the plated weight and check the vehicle can carry you, water and luggage
Awning, bike rack, towbar and other extras are as described

8. Before you hand over any money

Get an insurance quote using the vehicle's exact classification
Compare the price with similar vehicles — and with what you've seen at the viewing
Consider an independent inspection, especially for older vehicles or high-value ones
Agree what's included in writing (keys, manuals, extras, warranty if any)
Take a receipt showing the seller's name, the vehicle, price, date and payment method
Do not pay a deposit by transfer to an account you cannot verify; be wary of anything that feels rushed
If anything doesn't add up, walk away — there will be another one

General guidance only — not legal, financial or mechanical advice. Rules and fees change, so confirm current requirements with the relevant Irish authorities (RSA, Revenue, your local motor tax office) before you buy.

Camper inspection checklist