What is an RV Inspection?
- Marketing Communication
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
A Breakdown from Suite Wheels RV
If you're thinking about buying or selling an RV, getting the right inspection can make a big difference. It’s important to know that not all RV inspections are the same. There are a few different types in the RV world, and each one serves a different purpose depending on where you are in your RV journey. Here's a quick breakdown of the most common types:
RVIA Inspection – Done before the RV leaves the manufacturer.
Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) – Usually happens when the RV arrives at a dealership.
Technical Inspection – A certified RV technician checks the systems and structure.
Premier Inspection – A top-to-bottom, detailed inspection with a strong focus on visual observations.
Understanding the differences between these inspections can help you feel more confident as you navigate your RV purchase, sale, or maintenance. Let’s take a closer look at each one and what you can expect.
RVIA Inspection
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) plays a big role in setting the standard for how RVs are built and inspected. As the main governing body for the RV industry, RVIA works with both federal and state lawmakers, along with various industry groups, to create and enforce safety standards across all types of RVs.
Manufacturers who are part of the RVIA Standards Program agree to follow these safety and construction guidelines. That’s why you'll often see the RVIA oval sticker near an RV’s entrance—it’s a sign that the unit was built to meet those standards.
To make sure manufacturers stay in compliance, RVIA inspectors perform unannounced audits at RV factories. During these inspections, they check for over 500 safety-related standards, covering everything from electrical systems and plumbing to construction practices and fire safety. RVIA also provides its inspectors with a detailed database that outlines how to classify deviations and follow the proper inspection process.
Curious to learn more about RVIA’s standards? You can find more information on their website: RVIA Standards and Inspections
Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)
Pre-delivery inspections, or PDIs, are most commonly performed at RV dealerships. When a new or used rig arrives on the lot, dealerships typically conduct a basic inspection before offering it for sale. Each dealership does this a little differently—some take a thorough approach, while others do a quick walk-through.
In general, a standard PDI checks things like:
Does water make it to the kitchen sink?
Do the slideouts extend properly?
Does the air conditioner power on?
At Suite Wheels RV, we offer a version of the PDI that’s focused on what matters most to you. Rather than testing every single feature, we prioritize your top concerns. This makes our PDI especially helpful for folks considering older RVs who want to make sure the "bones" are still solid.
Typical Duration: 1–2 hours
Pricing: Charged at our standard hourly rate
Best For: Buyers of older rigs who want a quick, professional second opinion
This option lets you target high-priority areas without paying for a full-scale inspection.
Technical Inspection
Sometimes, a quick walkaround just isn’t enough. That’s where a Technical Inspection comes in. The big advantage? It’s performed by a trained RV technician who not only spots issues, but can also explain what’s going wrong and why.
At Suite Wheels RV, our Technical Inspection is a comprehensive function test of all major systems. We typically spend 4 to 5 hours onsite, reviewing everything from safety features to structural components.
What We Check:
Awnings and slide toppers
Slideouts and seals
Exterior, cargo areas, and undercarriage
Leveling or stabilizer systems
Tires and fuel systems
Engine (if applicable)
Fresh and waste water systems
Electrical (12V and 120V)
Appliances
Life safety systems
Interior components
You’ll receive a digital report with up to 50 annotated photos and written notes highlighting our findings. This inspection is ideal for buyers or sellers who want to understand the RV’s true condition, beyond surface-level issues.
Many of our clients choose the Technical Inspection because it’s a cost-effective way to get a professional opinion without the exhaustive detail of a Premier Inspection. And at Suite Wheels RV, you don’t have to choose between an inspector or a technician—our certified inspector is both.
Premier Inspection
A Premier Inspection is our most detailed and observation-focused inspection. While it shares similarities with a Technical Inspection, the biggest difference lies in the depth of documentation and reporting style.
Certified inspectors who offer Premier Inspections are trained to use specific software and follow a consistent, formal structure, often resembling a police report. For example:
"The awning does not fully retract. It is recommended that this be reviewed by a qualified technician.”
On the other hand, a Technical Inspection might say:
“The awning is not fully retracting. No set screw present in the cord rail, causing the fabric to shift. Recommend realignment and testing.”
Premier Inspectors also follow a strict code of ethics, which usually prohibits them from performing repairs on the RV for a set period of time. Their role is purely to observe and report.
At Suite Wheels RV, we offer something special: our Premier Inspections are conducted by a certified inspector who’s also a working technician. That means we bring both field experience and sharp attention to detail. We know what typically fails and where to look—because we see it every day.
While a true “Premier + Technical” combo would take two inspectors 15 hours to complete, we’ve found a practical balance.
What to Expect:
Time Onsite: 8–10 hours
Digital Report: 100+ annotated photos and videos
Exterior Focus: Roof, seals, slides, doors, lights, leveling systems, awnings
Interior Focus: Electrical and water systems, all appliances, structure, safety features
Extreme Detail: We'll flag even the tiniest things, like a loose staple or peeling wallpaper
This inspection is especially popular with buyers of new or high-value RVs who want complete peace of mind before signing on the dotted line.
Ready to Ensure Your RV is in Top Shape?
Whether you're buying, selling, or simply want peace of mind about your RV's condition, an inspection from Suite Wheels RV can give you the detailed insight you need.
With options ranging from a quick Pre-Delivery Inspection to a full-scale Premier Inspection, we tailor our services to fit your rig, your goals, and your budget.
Don’t leave it to guesswork—schedule your RV inspection today and hit the road with confidence.
This blog was written by Scott and Katlyn and edited by Chanda
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