Short answer: inspect the exact caravan against the signed order before final acceptance. Match its VIN, layout, options and ratings; test systems through safe demonstrations; record every defect; collect certificates, manuals and keys; and obtain written rectification dates. Handover is an evidence check, not a ceremonial tour.
Prepare before handover day
- Bring the signed contract, final specification and option list.
- Bring the promised ratings and towing information.
- Prepare a checklist, phone or camera and torch.
- Allow enough daylight and time without another appointment.
- Ask for water, gas, battery and 240-volt systems to be available for safe demonstration.
- Confirm whether final payment is due before or after inspection.
1. Verify identity and documents
Match the VIN and plate details to the contract, invoice and RAV entry where applicable. Confirm make, model, build date, tare, ATM and GTM. Ask how fitted options are reflected in the final mass information and retain the manufacturer’s documentation.
Check registration documents, warranty terms, appliance manuals, keys, remotes, certificates, service schedule and emergency contacts. Photograph the plate and identifiers.
2. Match the order
Work line by line through the agreed layout, fabrics, cabinetry, suspension, tyres, coupling, batteries, solar, inverter, water tanks, fridge, air-conditioner, heating, awning, cameras and external accessories. Record any substitution or missing item before acceptance.
3. Inspect exterior condition
- Panels, roof edges, seals, windows, doors and hatches
- Awning alignment and operation
- Lights, reflectors, number-plate mounting and cameras
- Drawbar, coupling, chains, breakaway system and jockey wheel
- Chassis coating, underbody, tanks, pipes and wiring
- Wheels, tyres, spare wheel and wheel-nut information
- Suspension, axles, brakes and visible fasteners
Look for transport damage, loose sealant, incomplete fasteners, rubbing cables, unsupported pipes, low-hanging equipment and fresh repairs. Do not crawl under an unsupported caravan.
4. Inspect the interior
- Doors, drawers, catches and travel locks
- Beds, bunks, ladders and guard arrangements
- Windows, blinds, flyscreens and roof vents
- Flooring, wall and ceiling finish
- Bathroom door, shower, toilet and ventilation
- Storage access and sharp or unfinished edges
- Emergency exits, smoke alarm and supplied fire equipment
5. Demonstrate water and waste systems
Have the supplier demonstrate tank selection, filling, pump operation, taps, drains, hot water, toilet and waste points. Check for leaks during operation and ask about winterising, cleaning and safe drinking-water procedures. Record tank capacities and whether they were included in the quoted tare assumptions.
6. Demonstrate electrical systems
Ask for a guided demonstration of the battery monitor, charger, solar, inverter, lights, power points, fridge modes, air-conditioner and safety switches. Obtain required certificates and diagrams. Do not remove covers or perform live electrical testing yourself; use an appropriately licensed electrical worker for independent testing.
7. Demonstrate gas appliances safely
Ask the supplier to demonstrate isolation, ventilation requirements and the correct operation of installed gas appliances. Confirm the gas compliance evidence required in your jurisdiction. Do not adjust, leak-test or repair a fixed gas installation unless appropriately licensed.
8. Check towing equipment
Confirm coupling operation, safety-chain connection, electrical plug, breakaway system, brake controller requirements, reversing camera and towing mirrors. Make sure the tow vehicle and hitch arrangement comply with the vehicle and component manufacturers’ instructions.
9. Record defects properly
Create a numbered defect list with a clear photograph, location, description and agreed action. Record whether each item will be corrected before acceptance or by a dated later appointment. Obtain the supplier’s signed acknowledgement. “We will look after it” is not a rectification schedule.
10. Before leaving
- Confirm every exterior opening is secured.
- Check coupling, chains, plug, breakaway attachment and jockey wheel.
- Test road lights and electric brakes.
- Confirm tyre pressures and wheel-nut instructions.
- Adjust mirrors and cameras.
- Complete a slow final walk-around.
- Travel conservatively and stop to recheck as instructed by the manufacturers.
After handover
Load the caravan realistically and obtain appropriate real measurements before relying on brochure figures. Use the repeatable weighbridge process. Complete a close-to-home trial before a remote or extended trip.
For a structured handover record, use the verified Order, Contract & Handover Pack and return to the Buying a Caravan hub.