Short answer: inspect the caravan regularly for staining, soft or swollen surfaces, musty smells, damaged sealant, loose fittings and changes after heavy rain or rough travel. Water can travel away from its entry point, so finding dampness does not automatically identify the source.
This guide belongs to the Caravan Maintenance & Ownership Australia hub. For tanks and internal water hygiene, use the separate water-tank maintenance guide.
Look inside before searching outside
- Check around windows, hatches, vents, air conditioners, doors and roof penetrations.
- Look in overhead cupboards, corners, under mattresses and beneath seating.
- Inspect flooring near walls, bathrooms, plumbing and storage compartments.
- Notice bubbling finishes, discolouration, rust marks, mould or a persistent musty smell.
- Compare the area after rain, washing and water-system use.
A moisture meter may help a trained user identify patterns, but readings depend on materials and the tool. Treat it as evidence to investigate, not proof of the exact source or extent.
Inspect common exterior entry points
Work safely from the ground where possible. Roof access and load limits vary, and walking on an unsuitable roof can cause damage or injury.
- Roof and wall joins, mouldings and corner trims
- Windows, doors, hatches and service doors
- Vents, aerials, solar cable entries and air-conditioning openings
- Awning brackets, lights, handles and accessories fixed through the body
- Plumbing inlets, shower fittings and external outlets
- Stone, branch or impact damage
Look for gaps, lifting edges, cracking, movement, missing fasteners or sealant that has lost adhesion. Do not apply a random layer of household silicone over an unknown problem. The wrong product or preparation can trap moisture, prevent adhesion and complicate a proper repair.
Separate rain ingress from plumbing leaks
Plumbing faults can imitate an exterior leak. Check hoses, pumps, filters, tanks, fittings, hot-water systems and drains for drips or pressure loss. Isolate systems only in accordance with their instructions. Water near mains electricity, batteries or damaged wiring requires immediate caution and professional assessment.
What to do when you find a warning sign
- Stop adding water to the area where practical.
- Photograph and date the visible evidence before cleaning or dismantling.
- Protect the caravan from further exposure without sealing over the diagnostic evidence.
- Check warranty and service documentation.
- Arrange an experienced caravan repairer or relevant trade to trace the source and assess hidden damage.
To locate an experienced business near you, search the Australian Caravan Repairer Directory by town, postcode, state or service.
If the caravan is new or a supplier repair may be involved, keep clear written records. Australian consumer guarantees are separate from voluntary warranties; the ACCC’s new-caravan guidance explains the consumer-law pathway.
Make inspection repeatable
Photograph high-risk areas when dry and sound. Repeat the same visual check after storms, rough roads, storage and repairs. Record the products used and work completed so future repairers do not have to guess.
For a structured inspection worksheet, see the Water Leak & Seal Inspection.
Make it part of the complete ownership plan
Return to the Caravan Maintenance & Ownership Australia hub to connect this job with pre-trip checks, running gear, leak inspection, storage and service records.
Safety note: This guide is general planning information. Follow the current instructions for your caravan and every fitted component. Use qualified service, electrical, gas, brake, tyre and structural professionals where required.