RV Inspection Checklist: Pre-Purchase, Pre-Storage, and Post-Storage Guides
Whether you’re gearing up for your first big road trip, buying a used RV, or prepping your rig for storage, one thing is non-negotiable: a thorough inspection.
Minor issues can lead to expensive repairs, safety hazards, and even rodent infestations. But a watchful eye means early detection and fewer hassles. That’s why we’ve put together these simple, printable RV Inspection Checklists — to make preventative measures even easier!
But remember, not all inspections are the same.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what to inspect before purchase, before storage, and after storage:
- Pre-Purchase RV Inspection Checklist
- Pre-Storage RV Inspection Checklist
- Post-Storage RV Inspection Checklist
Pre-Purchase RV Inspection Checklist
If you’re buying a new or used RV, this is your first and most important inspection. Damage from water leaks, rodents, or improper maintenance can be easy to miss without a thorough walkthrough.
Key areas to inspect before buying:
- Roof and seals – Look for soft spots, cracks, or old sealant that’s beginning to fail.
- Undercarriage and frame – Check for rust, prior repairs, or visible leaks.
- Slide-outs and awnings – Test for smooth function and inspect seals for wear or water intrusion.
- Tires – Don’t just check tread — look for cracking and confirm the date code (tires age out even if unused).
- Electrical and appliances – Run every light, outlet, and switch. Test the fridge, furnace, A/C, and generator.
- Plumbing – Run the faucets, check the tanks, flush the toilet, and inspect the water heater.
- Rodent signs – Look under the sink, in storage bays, and behind drawers for droppings or chewed wires.
Download the Pre-Purchase RV Inspection Checklist (PDF)
Pre-Storage RV Inspection Checklist
Prepping your RV for long-term or seasonal storage is one of the best ways to prevent damage — and one of the most overlooked. Moisture, rodents, and battery degradation are all common problems that stem from improper storage prep.
Before storage, make sure you:
- Drain and winterize the plumbing system
- Clean and vacuum to remove food residue and attractants
- Inspect and reseal roof and window seams
- Inflate and cover your tires, or better yet, raise them off the ground
- Disconnect the battery or connect a trickle charger
- Seal up rodent entry points and install a physical barrier like Box-Kat to protect your RV’s undercarriage
- Place moisture absorbers and prop open the fridge and cabinets
Download the Pre-Storage RV Inspection Checklist (PDF)
Post-Storage RV Inspection Checklist
Once your RV has been sitting for a while — especially over winter — you’ll want to give it a detailed inspection before hitting the road. Frozen pipes, chewed wires, flat-spotted tires, or gas leaks can all show up after months of inactivity.
After storage, inspect for:
- Rodent damage – Look under sinks, in drawers, and around wiring bundles.
- Leaks and seals – Check all roof seams, windows, and the undercarriage for signs of moisture.
- Tires and brakes – Inflate to the proper PSI and inspect for dry rot or flat spots.
- Battery and power systems – Reconnect, test voltage, and confirm inverter/solar systems are functional.
- Water and propane systems – Flush and sanitize tanks, test appliances, and check for gas leaks.
Download the Post-Storage RV Inspection Checklist (PDF)
Download All 3 Free Checklists
Whether you’re inspecting a potential purchase, prepping for winter, or coming out of storage, we’ve got you covered.
Download the Pre-Purchase RV Inspection Checklist (PDF)
Download the Pre-Storage RV Inspection Checklist (PDF)
Download the Post-Storage RV Inspection Checklist (PDF)
Final Thoughts: Protect Your RV, Protect Your Investment
A detailed RV inspection doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right checklist — and a little time — you can catch issues early, avoid expensive repairs, and feel confident heading down the road.
From experience, we know that rodent damage, water leaks, and electrical issues are three of the most expensive and preventable problems for RV owners. That’s why we built these checklists — to help you prevent them, not just repair them.
And don’t forget, when it comes to keeping rodents out of your RV for good, there is no better defense than the Box-Kat mouse barrier. Our patented flex panels create a seamless connection with the ground, protecting your RV’s undercarriage, and keeping mice from getting near — all without traps, poisons, or chemicals.
Happy driving — and smart inspections.
