✅ RV Pre-Delivery Inspection Checklist (PDI) - with PDF Download

✅ RV Pre-Delivery Inspection Checklist (PDI) – with PDF Download

Download this RV inspection checklist to serve as a helpful guide for inspecting both new and used RVs. If you’re thinking about buying an RV new or used, at some point, you’ll want to conduct an RV Inspection before buying a used RV and after purchasing a new RV, too! You can do an RV Inspection yourself or hire a Certified RV Inspector to conduct a thorough review! — It depends on the situation if you’re buying an RV from a dealership vs purchasing an RV private seller, as well as if the RV is new vs used.

For new RVs, use it as your personal RV Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) checklist. Although the dealership will conduct its own PDI, theirs is often less thorough and completed by someone other than you. If you’re unable to do a full inspection before taking delivery, be sure to go through this checklist as soon as possible—ideally while still near the dealership—so you can address any issues under warranty.

For used RVs, it’s a good idea to first walk through this RV Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist with a few new RVs. This will give you a better sense of what to look for and help you more easily identify potential problems in used units.

While most items on this RV Pre-Delivery Inspection Checklist (PDI) can be checked by the average person, certain components—such as brakes, engines, and other mechanical systems—may require a certified technician for a proper evaluation. Learn How To Find RV Service, Repair, Parts, Mechanics, Technicians & More!

Also, check out our other RV checklists and guides!

>> Download A Copy Of This RV Pre Purchase Inspection Checklist PDF Guide <<

✅ RV Pre-Delivery Inspection Checklist (PDI):

Items to Take to RV Inspection:

Before conducting your RV inspection, gather the essential tools and materials to ensure a thorough and efficient evaluation. Bring a printed copy of the inspection checklist, the appropriate RV Road Test checklist (for either motorhomes or trailers), a notebook and pen, and basic tools like a flashlight, screwdrivers, pliers, and a tape measure. For safety and access, wear rubber-soled shoes, use a tarp or creeper to inspect the underside, and bring a mirror for hard-to-see areas. Additional helpful items include a calculator, tire pressure gauge (rated for 100+ psi), gloves, rags, wet towels, and an engine coolant test strip. Being prepared with these items will help you conduct a more complete and confident RV inspection.

Checklist of Items to Take to RV Inspection:

This inspection checklist
RV Road Test: Motor Homes or RV Road Test: Trailers checklist
Notebook and pen
Fifty foot tape measure
Calculator
Flashlight with fresh batteries
Screwdriver with Phillips and flathead tips
Pliers
Small mirror (for looking into hard-to-see areas)
Tire pressure gauge with a minimum 100 psi range or higher
Tarp or creeper (for inspecting underside)
Rubber soled shoes (for better traction while walking on roof)
Work gloves
Rags (for checking fluid levels, wiping hands)
Wet towels (for cleaning hands)
Engine coolant test strip

>> How do you know if your RV is a lemon? (I bought one 🤦‍♀️ )

Outside RV Inspection Checklist:

During the exterior inspection of the RV, carefully examine all sides—walls, front, back, left, and right—for overall surface condition, signs of leaks, and the integrity of seals, caulking, and trim. Check all doors, windows, and screens, ensuring they open, close, and seal properly. Inspect vents, handrails, lights, mirrors, and steps for proper function and condition. Test awnings, including their mechanisms, canvas, and wind sensor (including the ability to turn it off). Review connector covers, sockets, fuel doors, locks, and caps for wear and security. For RVs with slides or expansions, check the external seals, test motorized and manual slide operation, verify the locking mechanism, and examine slide toppers or covers. This part of the inspection ensures the RV’s exterior is in solid condition and fully functional.

OUTSIDE: RV Walls

OUTSIDE: Walls	Right	Back	Left	Front
Surface condition
Signs of leaks
Seals and caulking
Trim
Doors & screens
Windows & screens
Vents
Hand rails
Awning mechanisms
Awning canvas
Awning wind sensor operation, ability to turn off
Lights
Mirrors
Steps
Connector covers & sockets
Fuel doors, locks, and caps
Slide external seals
Slide operation, motorized
Slide operation, manual crank
Slide locking mechanism
Slide covers (toppers)
Fold-outs & expansions

OUTSIDE: RV Roof

Inspecting the roof is a critical part of the RV evaluation. Check the overall surface condition, especially at the corners and edges where the roof meets the walls, for signs of leaks, cracks, or damage. Examine all seals and caulking for wear or gaps. Inspect roof-mounted components such as vents, vent hoods, skylights, air conditioners, antennas, and satellite dishes to ensure they are secure and functioning. If present, check slide toppers for wear and proper coverage. Review the condition of the ladder and ensure caulking at its attachment points is intact. If the RV has solar panels, verify they are firmly mounted and free of damage. A thorough roof inspection helps prevent costly water damage and ensures all rooftop systems are operational.

Surface condition
Corners and edges where walls attach
Signs of leaks
Seals and caulking
Vents and vent hoods
Skylights
Slide covers (toppers)
Air conditioners
Antennas and satellite dishes
Ladder condition and caulking where it attaches to RV
Solar panels

>> Download A Copy Of This PDI Checklist <<

OUTSIDE: RV Underside

The underside of the RV reveals important structural and mechanical details. Look for fluid leaks and assess the frame for any damage, rust, or signs of past repairs. Inspect welds, axles, and the suspension system for integrity. Check the condition of electric brake wiring, plumbing, and holding tanks (both fresh and waste) for leaks or wear. Evaluate the underside enclosure and insulation, ensuring everything is secure and intact. Verify that pipes, hoses, and wires are properly supported with straps. Test leveling and stabilizing jacks for stability and function. If applicable, examine the drive shaft, rear differential, and protective boots covering joints. A detailed underside inspection helps uncover hidden issues that could affect performance or safety.

Fluid leaks
Frame condition, signs of damage or repair
Welds
Axles
Suspension
Electric brake wiring
Plumbing
Holding tanks (water, waste)
Underside enclosure and insulation
Straps holding pipes, hoses, wires
Leveling jacks (landing legs)
Stabilizing jacks
Drive shaft
Rear differential
Boots (enclosing various joints)

>> Download A Copy Of This PDI Checklist <<

OUTSIDE: RV Storage Compartments

When inspecting the RV’s storage compartments, assess the overall condition and check for any signs of leaks or water damage. In lower compartments, look upward to inspect the underside of the floor. Use a flashlight to thoroughly examine all openings and visible components inside. Check the condition and function of compartment doors, seals, and interior lights. If the RV has a sliding tray, test its movement and locking mechanism to ensure smooth operation and secure storage. A careful inspection here ensures your gear stays protected and accessible.

Overall condition
Signs of leaks
In lower compartments, look up to inspect floor condition
Shine flashlight into all openings, inspecting all visible components
Doors and seals
Lights
Sliding tray and locking mechanism

>> Download A Copy Of This PDI Checklist <<

OUTSIDE: RV Wheels & Tires

Inspecting the RV’s wheels and braking system is essential for safety. Start by checking tire pressure, tread depth, and the condition of the sidewalls for cracks or bulges. Locate the tire’s date of manufacture to ensure the tires aren’t too old. Don’t forget to examine the spare tire as well. Verify lug nuts are properly torqued and inspect wheel rims for damage. Check the brake function at each wheel, and visually inspect the brake pads and rotor surfaces for wear or scoring. This ensures your RV is road-ready and safe to drive or tow.

Tire pressure
Tire tread
Tire walls
Tire date of manufacture:
Spare tire
Lug nut torque
Wheel rims
Brake function of each wheel
Brake pads
Brake rotor surface

>> Download A Copy Of This PDI Checklist <<

OUTSIDE: RV Utilities

When inspecting the RV’s utility systems, verify that all connections and components are present, secure, and functioning properly. Check the power cable and connectors, as well as the house batteries, their disconnect switch, and ensure the battery tray is stable. Test connections for cable TV, telephone, and satellite dish.

Inspect the fresh water system, including the hose, connectors, outside shower, faucet, tank fill and drain valves, and winterizing valve. Check the water heater drain valve for leaks or corrosion.

For the sewer system, examine the sewer hose, connectors, storage compartment, and both gray and black tank dump valves. Test the black tank flush connector and valve for proper operation.

Finally, review the generator by checking its hours, fluid levels, startup and operation, noise level, and exhaust location. This full utility inspection ensures your RV is ready for comfortable and functional use on the road.

Power cable and connectors
RV batteries (house batteries)
RV battery disconnect switch
RV battery sliding tray secure
Cable TV connector
Telephone connector
Satellite dish connector
Fresh water hose and connectors
Outside shower
Outside faucet
Fresh water tank fill valve
Fresh water tank drain valve
Winterizing connector and valve (antifreeze)
Water heater tank drain valve
Sewer hose and connectors
Sewer hose storage tube or compartment
Gray tank dump valve
Black tank dump valve
Black tank pressure wash connector and valve
Generator hours:
Generator fluid levels
Generator operation
Generator noise level
Generator exhaust location

>> Download A Copy Of This PDI Checklist <<

OUTSIDE: RV Propane

For the propane system, start by inspecting the condition of the propane bottles and ensure they—and any sliding trays—are securely mounted. Confirm that the tanks have OPD (Overfill Protection Device) valves, which are identified by their triangular-shaped knobs. Check all connections, pipes, and hoses for cracks, leaks, or wear. Verify the accuracy of level or empty indicators and test the automatic tank selector device if equipped. Lastly, check the regulator’s output pressure to ensure it’s within the proper range for safe and efficient operation. A thorough propane system check is essential for safety and performance.

Propane bottle condition
Propane bottles and sliding tray secure
Tanks have OPD valves (triangular shape)
Connections, pipes, and hoses
Level or empty indicators
Automatic tank selector device
Regulator output pressure

OUTSIDE: Motor Home Engine Compartment

When inspecting the motor home engine compartment, check all essential fluids including engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Examine hoses, belts, and batteries for wear or damage. Look carefully for any fluid leaks and exhaust leaks. Inspect wiring for secure connections and signs of wear. Check the condition of the air filter and fuel filter. If the engine oil hasn’t been changed recently, consider taking a sample for oil analysis. Use a test strip for engine coolant analysis. Start the engine and observe the exhaust color at startup, the engine idle, and the exhaust color again after five minutes of idling to detect potential issues. This thorough check helps ensure the engine is in good working order.

Engine oil
Engine coolant
Power steering fluid
Brake fluid
Transmission fluid
Windshield washer fluid
Hoses
Belts
Batteries
Leaks, fluid
Leaks, exhaust
Wiring
Air filter
Fuel filter
Engine oil analysis, take sample (ignore if oil was recently changed)
Engine coolant analysis, use test strip
Engine start
Exhaust color at start
Engine idle
Exhaust color after 5 minutes of idling

>> Download A Copy Of This PDI Checklist <<

OUTSIDE: Trailer Coupling Components

When inspecting the trailer coupling components, assess the overall condition of the tongue or king pin for wear or damage. Check any supplemental hitching equipment such as sway bars and weight-distributing hitches to ensure they are properly installed and functional. Verify the condition and security of safety chains, the umbilical cord and connector, and the breakaway switch and cable. Inspect the hitch receiver (typically located on or under the rear bumper) and the trailer wiring harness and plug, especially if you plan to tow a vehicle or trailer behind the RV. Proper inspection of these components is crucial for safe towing.

Tongue or King Pin overall condition
Supplemental hitching equipment (sway bars, weight-distributing hitch, etc.)
Safety chains
Umbilical cord and connector
Breakaway switch and cable
Hitch receiver (on or under rear bumper)
Trailer wiring harness and plug (for pulling toad or trailer behind RV)

>> Download A Copy Of This PDI Checklist <<

Inside The RV General Inspection Checklist:

Inside the RV, begin by evaluating the general layout and floor plan to ensure all necessities remain accessible when slides are extended or retracted. Inspect the flooring by pressing or stomping to detect any weak spots. Examine walls, slide seals, and trim for damage or wear. Check all windows, screens, drapes, and shades for proper function and condition.

Test door locks and latches to ensure security. Assess cabinetry for finish quality, and inspect hinges, slides, and latches; remove drawers to look behind for hidden issues. Check the ceiling by pressing gently to find any sagging, and verify that exhaust vents and fans operate correctly.

Look under and behind movable furniture for damage or pests. Test mattresses, including pull-out and fold-down beds, to confirm comfort and condition. Lastly, be vigilant for signs of rodents or pests, which can cause hidden damage. This thorough interior check ensures comfort, safety, and functionality inside your RV.

INSIDE: General	Kitchen	Living & Dine	Bedroom	Bath
Floor plan (layout)
Necessities are accessible with slides in
Flooring
Stomp on floor to detect weak areas
Walls
Slide internal seals
Trim
Windows and screens
Drapes and shades
Door locks or latches
Cabinetry finish
Cabinetry hinges, slides, latches
Cabinetry interior
Remove drawers, inspect behind them
Ceiling
Press up on ceiling to detect sagging
Ceiling exhaust vents and fans
Furniture
Look under and behind movable furniture
Mattresses
Pull out and fold down beds
Rodent and pest presence or damage

INSIDE: RV Kitchen

In the kitchen area, inspect the countertops and any countertop extensions for damage or stability. Check the sink, paying close attention to seals and caulking around it to prevent leaks. Test the stovetop, including burners and igniters, as well as the stove hood exhaust fan and vent cover for proper operation.

Verify the oven and its pilot light work correctly. Test the microwave oven, coffee maker, and dishwasher (if equipped). Confirm the refrigerator functions on all power sources—both A/C and propane—and check the freezer and ice maker. Finally, inspect the drinking water filter to ensure it’s clean and operational. A detailed kitchen inspection guarantees safe, functional cooking and food storage.

Countertops
Counter top extensions
Sink
Seals and caulking around sink
Stove top, burners, igniters
Stove hood exhaust fan and vent cover
Oven and pilot light
Microwave oven
Coffee maker
Dish washer
Refrigerator works on all power sources (A/C, propane)
Freezer
Ice maker
Drinking water filter

>> Download A Copy Of This PDI Checklist <<

INSIDE: RV Bathroom

In the bathroom, check that the toilet flushes properly and inspect around its base for any signs of leaks. Look inside the toilet bowl to check the black tank for hardened waste buildup. Test the sink, fixtures, and shower walls for leaks or damage. Inspect shower fixtures, the shower door and latch, and any skylight for proper operation and condition.

If washer and dryer hookups are present, verify the connections and hoses for leaks—even if the appliances aren’t installed. Check the dryer vent for cleanliness and damage. Finally, remove panels around and behind the shower to inspect for hidden leaks or water damage. This thorough bathroom inspection helps prevent water-related problems and ensures all fixtures work correctly.

Toilet flushes
Signs of leaks around toilet base
Look into black tank through toilet for hardened solid waste
Sink and fixtures
Shower and tub walls
Shower fixtures
Shower door and latch
Shower skylight
Washer and dryer connections (but no washer or dryer)
Washer and dryer
Washer hoses, indication of leaks
Dryer vent
Unscrew panels around and behind shower, inspect for leaks

>> Download A Copy Of This PDI Checklist <<

INSIDE: RV Fresh Water Systems

For the RV fresh water system, verify that all faucets function properly and that the water heater operates on both A/C and propane. Test the water pump to ensure it runs smoothly and shuts off automatically shortly after all faucets are closed. Check that the pump does not turn on unexpectedly when faucets and the ice maker are off, as this could indicate a leak. Confirm the water pump on/off switch works and monitor the fresh water tank level indicator for accuracy.

Regarding the waste systems, check the gray and black tank level indicators and ensure that sink and shower drains are draining properly. There should be no foul odors inside the RV when the toilet is not in use, except when the toilet flush valve is intentionally open during inspection. This ensures the plumbing systems are functioning well and leak-free.

Faucets work
Water heater works on A/C and propane
Water pump works
Water pump shuts off automatically soon after all faucets are closed
Water pump does not turn on occasionally when all faucets are closed and ice maker is turned off (if yes, then there may be a leak)
Water pump on/off switch
Fresh water tank level indicator
INSIDE: Waste Systems
Gray tank level indicator
Black tank level indicator
Sink and shower drains work
No foul odor inside RV when toilet not in use (unless toilet flush valve has been open for extended periods for inspection)

INSIDE: RV Heating & Cooling

When inspecting the RV’s heating and cooling systems, test the furnace controls to ensure the furnace distributes hot air evenly through all floor vents. Check the air conditioner controls and verify that the air conditioners blow cool air through all ducted ceiling vents, while also inspecting the air filters for cleanliness. Test any electric heaters or fireplaces for proper operation. Confirm that ceiling fans work correctly and that thermostat-controlled vent fans (such as Fan-Tastic Vents) function as intended. This inspection ensures a comfortable indoor climate year-round.

Furnace controls
Furnace puts out hot air through all floor vents
Air conditioner controls
Air conditioners put out cool air through all ducted ceiling vents
Air conditioner filters
Electric heater or fireplace
Ceiling fans
Thermostat controlled vent fans (Fan Tastic Vent)

>> Download A Copy Of This PDI Checklist <<

INSIDE: RV Entertainment Electronics

Inspect the RV’s entertainment electronics by checking all TVs for proper function and ensuring their security straps are secure. Test the TV sliding tray locking mechanisms for smooth operation and safety. Evaluate all audio and video equipment (such as VCRs or DVD players) and verify the video source switch box properly switches between antenna, satellite, and other inputs. Check the antenna signal amplifier and test the controls for raising, lowering, and rotating the TV antenna and satellite dish to ensure reliable signal reception. This ensures your onboard entertainment is fully functional and secure.

TV’s
TV security straps
TV sliding tray locking mechanism
Audio equipment
Video equipment (VCR, DVD)
Video source switch box (antenna, VCR, DVD, satellite, etc.)
Antenna signal amplifier
TV antenna controls for raising, lowering, and rotating
Satellite dish controls for raising, lowering, and rotating

INSIDE: RV Electrical

For the RV’s electrical system, test all 120-volt A/C and 12-volt DC lights to ensure they operate correctly. Verify that A/C outlets have power and that GFCI breakers function properly for safety. Check that 12-volt DC ports are powered. Confirm the RV receives A/C power when connected to shore power, running on the generator, or using the inverter off batteries. Similarly, verify the 12-volt DC supply works when connected to shore power, the generator, batteries, and from the tow vehicle via the umbilical cord.

Ensure the batteries are charging properly from all sources—shore power, generator, tow vehicle, and solar panels. Test that the RV automatically switches power sources between shore power, generator, and inverter smoothly. Finally, locate the fuse and breaker boxes for easy access. This comprehensive check confirms your RV’s electrical system is safe, reliable, and well-maintained.

Lights, 120 Volt A/C
Lights, 12 Volt DC
A/C outlets have power
GFCI breakers function
12 Volt DC ports have power
A/C supply to RV when connected to shore power
A/C supply to RV when generator is running
A/C supply to RV when inverter is running off batteries
DC supply to RV when connected to shore power
DC supply to RV when generator is running
DC supply to RV from batteries
DC supply to RV from tow vehicle via umbilical cord
Battery charging when connected to shore power
Battery charging when generator is running
Battery charging from tow vehicle via umbilical cord
Battery charging from solar panels
Automatic power switching between available systems (shore power, generator, inverter)
Location of fuse and breaker boxes

>> Download A Copy Of This RV Pre Purchase Inspection Checklist PDF Guide <<

INSIDE: RV Safety Devices

Inspect the RV’s safety devices to ensure proper protection. Confirm that the fire extinguisher is present, fully charged, and easily accessible. Test the smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector, and propane gas detector to ensure they are working correctly. Check that all designated emergency exit windows open smoothly and are unobstructed for quick escape if needed. These checks are vital for the safety of everyone on board.

Fire extinguisher
Smoke detector
Carbon Monoxide detector
Propane gas detector
Emergency exit windows

>> Download A Copy Of This PDI Checklist <<

INSIDE: Motor Home Cockpit

In the motor home cockpit, inspect the condition of upholstery, carpet, and cabinetry (including finish, hinges, slides, latches, and interiors). Ensure items stored above the cockpit (like TVs) are securely mounted. Test door locks, windows, screens, and check the windshield for cracks or chips. Verify the operation of drapes, shades, and visors.

Check that seat belts are present and functional for the driver, passenger, and living area seats, and test all seat adjustments. Test the horn, rearview mirrors and their controls, and the rearview camera and monitor. Confirm steering wheel adjustments and that the instrument panel and vehicle controls work properly.

Test windshield wipers and washers, and all specialized controls including air suspension, exhaust brake, secondary fuel tank switch-over, leveling system, and trailer/toad brake controls with documentation. Check the entertainment system, CB radio, navigation system, and security system (arm/disarm functions and documentation). Finally, inspect beverage and snack holders, storage compartments and keys, and the step well cover for completeness and condition. This comprehensive cockpit check ensures safety, comfort, and full functionality for driving and living.

Upholstery
Carpet
Cabinetry finish
Cabinetry hinges, slides, latches
Cabinetry interior
Items above cockpit secure (TV, etc.)
Door locks or latches
Windows and screens
Windshield cracks and chips
Drapes, shades, visors
Driver and passenger seat belts in cockpit
Passenger seat belts in living area (sofas, chairs)
Seat adjustments
Horn
Rear view mirrors and mirror adjustment controls
Rear view camera and monitor
Steering wheel adjustments
Instrument panel
Vehicle controls
Windshield wipers and washer
Air suspension controls
Exhaust brake controls
Secondary fuel tank switch-over controls
Leveling system controls
Trailer or toad brake controls and documentation
Entertainment system (radio, CD, tape, DVD, etc.)
CB radio and antenna
Navigation system (GPS)
Security system arm, disarm, and documentation
Beverage and snack holders
Storage compartments and keys
Step well cover

Dimensions & Capacities
External length (in):		Fresh water tank 1 (gal):
Motor home wheelbase (in):		Fresh water tank 2 (gal):
Motor home wheelbase ratio (%):		Gray water tank 1 (gal):
External width, body (in):		Gray water tank 2 (gal):
External width, total (in):		Black water tank 1 (gal):
Top clearance (ft & in):		Black water tank 2 (gal):
Length when towing (ft):		Propane bottle size (gal):
Engine fuel tanks (gal):		Number of propane bottles:

Weights
Ratings		Actual Scale Weights
GVWR		GVW
GAWR 1		GAW 1
GAWR 2		GAW 2
GAWR 3		GAW 3
GCVWR		GCVW

>> Download A Copy Of This PDI Checklist <<

RV Documentation:

When reviewing the RV’s documentation, ensure you have the title and the MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) sheet. Collect all relevant manuals, including those for the RV itself, the engine, and any appliances. Review maintenance records to understand the vehicle’s service history. Verify warranty documents for all major components and appliances, including any extended warranty paperwork. Having complete and organized documentation is essential for ownership, maintenance, and resale.

Title
MSRP sheet
RV manuals
Engine manuals
Appliance manuals
Maintenance records
Warranty documentation for all major components and appliances
Extended warranty documentation

Final Thoughts

A thorough RV inspection—inside and out—is essential to ensure safety, reliability, and comfort whether you’re buying new or used. Take your time to methodically check every system, component, and document, using your checklist and tools to catch any potential issues early. Remember, no inspection can replace professional mechanical or structural evaluations for specialized systems like brakes or engines.

Whenever possible, involve qualified technicians for complex areas, and don’t hesitate to ask dealers or sellers detailed questions. Thorough inspections help avoid costly repairs down the road and give you confidence in your RV investment. Finally, always trust your instincts—if something doesn’t feel right or looks suspicious, dig deeper or seek expert advice.

>> Download A Copy Of This PDI Checklist <<

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Updated: September 16, 2025

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July 24, 2025

✅ RV Pre-Delivery Inspection Checklist (PDI) – with PDF Download