Maintaining Your Motorhome's Health with Habitation Checks

Like any home, your motorhome requires regular maintenance to ensure it stays in top condition. One essential aspect of this maintenance is a habitation check. Sometimes called a motorhome service or damp check, a habitation check is a comprehensive inspection of your motorhome's living area, excluding the engine and chassis, to identify and address potential issues that could affect the vehicle's comfort, safety, and value.

Included in the inspection are the gas, water, and electrical systems, as well as the overall condition of the interior fixtures and fittings. This check is essential for ensuring that everything is in proper working order and that your motorhome is safe and comfortable for you and your fellow travellers.

Why Habitation Checks are Important:

Longevity: A motorhome is an investment, so it’s important to look after it so you can continue to enjoy adventures on the road for as long as possible. Regular habitation checks can extend the lifespan of your vehicle and ensure it remains comfortable and efficient.

Safety: Inspections can detect potential gas leaks, electrical hazards, and water ingress issues that could jeopardise the health and well-being of travellers. Smoke alarms are also checked to ensure they are in full working order.

Maintenance: Detecting minor problems early on can prevent more significant and costly repairs further down the road. Taking preventative measures can save you time and money by making sure essential appliances in your motorhome don’t break down when you’re away, saving you time and money in the longer term.

Insurance: Many motorhome manufacturers require annual habitation checks to maintain warranty coverage and some insurance policies can insist on one to maintain coverage, so it's important to stay on top of this.

Resale Value: A well-maintained motorhome with a documented service history will command a higher resale value and allow you to enjoy a greater return when you come to sell or trade-in your motorhome.

When to Have a Habitation Check:

The frequency of habitation checks depends on various factors, including the age of your motorhome, how often you use it, and your personal preferences. However, it’s considered good practice to have a check made annually, particularly for newer motorhomes or those used frequently.

If, however, you notice anything in need of attention, or if you’re motorhome has any recurring issues, it may be a good idea to have a habitation check done more often. Regular use can put additional strain on systems and components, so it's important to keep a close eye on its condition and address any issues promptly.

Having a habitation check done annually can help to identify any potential issues early on, and it can also provide peace of mind knowing that your motorhome remains in good shape for your next adventure.

Habitation Services at RVSC

Habitation checks are an investment in the ongoing safety and value of your motorhome. By scheduling regular checks, you can ensure that your home on wheels is always ready for every journey, big or small.

A comprehensive habitation service and health check by RVSC ensures your motorhome is in excellent condition. Inspections can take up to 3 hours and are carried out in line with the NCC and manufacturer guidelines. The condition and operation of all interior living spaces are checked thoroughly including:

• The gas, water and electrical systems are all tested using specialist equipment.
• Gas certification.
• Damp test.
• Fire safety and security checks.
• All locks are inspected, tested, and lubricated.
• Blinds, windows, and roof lights are opened, checked, and adjusted as required.
• The underbody and chassis mountings are checked.

Contact RVSC in Toddington showroom on +44 (0)1525 878 009 or motorhomesales@rvsupercentre.co.uk or in Edinburgh at +44 (0)131 560 1122 or email info@rvsupercentre.co.uk to arrange an appointment.