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By Debbie Bruening, Certified RV Inspector & Owner of Deb’s RV Services
“A new RV might look perfect on the lot, but hidden issues can be costly — and sometimes dangerous — if you don’t find them before you buy.”
Why a New RV Still Needs an Inspection
It’s easy to assume that a brand-new RV, fresh from the factory, will be free of problems. After all, everything looks shiny, clean, and unused. Unfortunately, that assumption can be expensive.
Even new RVs often come with issues caused by the manufacturing process, transportation, or rushed assembly. Common problems include:
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Manufacturing defects that slip through quality control
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Transport damage from the journey between the factory and the dealership
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Improper installation of components or appliances
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Roof concerns such as bubbling, gaps, or holes in the sealant
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Electrical or plumbing issues that were never tested properly
The good news: these issues are usually covered under warranty — but only if you catch them early. That’s where a professional inspection makes all the difference.
What to Check in a New RV Inspection
A new RV might look showroom-ready, but that doesn’t mean every system is flawless. Before you hit the road, it’s important to carefully check key areas that can affect safety, comfort, and long-term reliability. Here are the essentials every new RV owner should review during an inspection:
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Roof & seals — Inspect for cracks, gaps, bubbling, or sealant failures that could allow water intrusion.
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Slide-outs — Test smooth operation, alignment, and confirm weather seals are intact.
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Electrical system — Check outlets, breakers, and wiring to ensure they’re safe and properly connected.
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Plumbing — Run water through all fixtures, check pressure, and look closely for hidden leaks.
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Appliances — Verify that refrigerators, stoves, air conditioners, and other appliances run safely and efficiently.
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Undercarriage — Look for loose components, rust, or signs of damage that may have occurred in transport.
Each of these areas is critical to your RV’s performance and safety. Taking time to confirm everything is in working order helps you avoid unexpected repairs later and ensures peace of mind before your first trip.
Case Study: When “Nearly Perfect” Still Isn’t Perfect
Not long ago, I inspected a brand-new RV that appeared flawless on the surface. The fit and finish were beautiful, and most buyers would have signed the paperwork without hesitation.
But once I dug deeper, I found:
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A plumbing connection that wasn’t properly secured a simple oversight that could have led to leaks and water damage.
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Minor sealant concerns that, if ignored, might have caused water intrusion down the line.
Individually, these issues weren’t major. But together, they were reminders of why every RV even the new ones needs a professional inspection. Because we caught them early, the buyer had everything corrected under warranty before hitting the road.
Watch the Full Walkthrough
Want to see exactly what I found in that “nearly perfect” RV? Watch the full video breakdown here:
👉 This RV Was Nearly Perfect (But I Still Found a Problem)
Final Thoughts
A professional inspection isn’t just for used RVs it’s one of the smartest investments you can make when buying new. Spending a little time and money up front can save you from big headaches (and bills) later.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only. The views expressed are those of the author, Debbie Bruening, and do not reflect those of Waggle. Waggle does not endorse any specific RV inspection services. Always seek professional advice before making RV purchase or inspection decisions.
