Caravan & Motorhome Pre-Purchase Inspections
A pre-purchase inspection focuses solely on the habitation unit. It is not a substitute for a full service. The goal is to understand the condition of what you're buying, not to recondition it.
Don’t Get Stuck with Someone Else’s Caravan Problems
Buying a caravan or motorhome is a big investment. But what if the vehicle you’ve just bought comes with a list of faults you didn’t spot, until it’s too late?
From hidden damp and faulty electrics to gas leaks and chassis corrosion, these issues are easy to miss without a thorough inspection. And once the money’s been handed over, you're the one left to fix it.
Looks Can Be Deceiving and Costly
We’ve seen it time and again: buyers trusting a clean-looking van or a friendly seller, only to find issues weeks later that could have been caught in a simple inspection.
- Appliances that don’t work
- Dangerous gas or electrical faults
- Leaks behind walls or under flooring
- Bodywork or structural damage hidden from view
These aren’t rare, they’re common. And they can easily turn your exciting new purchase into a stressful, expensive mistake.
Get Peace of Mind Before You Buy a Caravan or Motorhome
That’s where we come in.
At Thornhill Caravan & Motorhome Services, we provide independent, professional pre-purchase inspections throughout Northern Ireland (within 60 miles of Ballyclare). Whether you’re buying from a dealer, private seller, or storage site, we’ll inspect the vehicle on-site and give you a clear, honest report.
We follow the MCEA-approved habitation checklist, covering everything from:
- Gas & electrical systems
- Appliances & safety devices
- Ventilation & damp readings
- Bodywork, seals, windows & doors
- Water & waste systems
- Interior fittings & general condition
You’ll receive a written report with our findings, no jargon, no sales pitch, just the facts you need to make an informed decision.
Why Thornhill?
- We come to you – on-site inspections across Northern Ireland
- Detailed & honest reports – no cutting corners
- No workshop trips or seller hassle – we inspect where the van is
- Trusted locally – praised for our attention to detail and transparency
We’re not here to upsell, pressure, or rush the job. Our goal is simple: protect your investment and give you the clarity you need before you commit.
Thinking of Buying a Caravan or Motorhome?
Whether this is your first van or your fifth, make sure you know what you’re getting into. A pre-purchase inspection from Thornhill Services is one of the easiest ways to avoid major headaches later and gives you the power to walk away or negotiate if something’s not right.
Book a Pre-Purchase Inspection Today
Ready to move forward with confidence?
Call us now to arrange your inspection or ask a quick question.
We’ll handle the rest, professionally, promptly, and without pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Caravan & Motorhome Pre-purchase Inspections
Please email us at info@thornhillservices.co.uk or call us on 0782713819 if you cannot find an answer to your question.
What is included in a caravan or motorhome pre-purchase inspection?
A pre-purchase inspection provides peace of mind before you commit to buying. We assess the overall condition of the caravan or motorhome and check for any issues that may need attention. This includes structural integrity, appliances, gas and electrical systems, damp levels, and more, all to help you make an informed decision.
What is the cost of a caravan or motorhome pre-purchase inspection?
The cost of a pre-purchase inspection varies depending on the vehicle and the technician carrying out the work. At Thornhill Services, we do not advertise prices online, as we’ve found that price shoppers often don’t compare like with like. We prefer to speak with you first to understand your needs and provide a fair, transparent quote.
📞 Call us on 07827 138193 to discuss.
How long does a pre-purchase inspection typically take?
Most inspections take around 2 to 3 hours, depending on the size, age, and condition of the vehicle.
What are the benefits of a pre-purchase inspection?
A pre-purchase inspection gives you full visibility on the condition of the caravan or motorhome before you buy. It helps identify existing or potential problems, supports fair price negotiation, and gives you confidence in your purchase or the ability to walk away if needed.
Can I get a pre-purchase inspection at the seller’s location?
Yes. Thornhill Services is a fully mobile operation. We come to the seller’s site whether it’s a private home, storage facility, or dealership saving you the hassle of moving the vehicle.
Do I need to be present during the inspection?
No, you don’t need to attend in person. We can carry out the inspection independently and provide a full verbal report by phone, followed by written findings if required. However, you’re welcome to be there if you prefer.
Do you inspect imported caravans or motorhomes?
Yes, we’re happy to inspect imported vehicles. However, please note that certain parts, fittings, or layouts may differ from UK models. We’ll highlight any compatibility or compliance concerns during the inspection.
Will the inspection include a damp check?
Absolutely. Damp ingress is one of the most common and costly problems in older caravans and motorhomes. We always carry out a thorough moisture check using professional-grade meters.
Can you inspect newer caravans or ones still under warranty?
Yes. In fact, we often carry out inspections on relatively new models to confirm condition and ensure there are no hidden issues even when the van is still under manufacturer or dealer warranty.
Will I receive a written report?
Yes. A clear summary of findings will be provided after the inspection. You’ll know exactly what’s working, what might need attention soon, and anything that raises a red flag.
What if I decide not to buy after the inspection?
That’s exactly what the inspection is for. If our findings highlight major concerns, it could save you from a costly mistake. Many of our clients walk away from bad deals and find a better van with confidence.
Can you carry out repairs or servicing if I go ahead with the purchase?
Yes. If you decide to buy the van, we can often book you in for any necessary servicing or repairs. Our mobile setup means we can carry out most work at your location.
How far in advance should I book a pre-purchase inspection?
We recommend booking as early as possible. Short-notice inspections may be available depending on availability, but we do book up quickly especially during the peak season.
Determine any hidden issues with that caravan or motorhome you have your eye on before you commit to buying.
THornhill Services.
