Damp - and buying a motorhome

[Canalsman]

There have been cases we've all read where someone has bought a motorhome - new or used - and found that it leaks.

I have a suggestion that may help.

When you've found your ideal 'van, purchase a damp meter and test for dampness rigorously.

Then ask that the vendor gives the 'van a sustained dousing with water, or if the 'van's outside wait for heavy and prolonged rain. (That shouldn't take long!)

Then check for dampness once more.

I know this seems a hassle, but it might save you a lot of aggravation and heartache.

If the vendor doesn't want to play the game - walk away. There's plenty more 'vans to consider ...

 

[Firefox]

If you can manage to test it after a week of heavy rain that's even better. The problem with a dousing down, is that sometimes damp has a nasty habit of taking hours or days to soak through, run along inside somewhere and reappear later somewhere else in the interior

 

[Canalsman]

The problem with a dousing down, is that sometimes damp has a nasty habit of taking hours or days to soak through, run along inside somewhere and reappear later somewhere else in the interior

Good point ... but if the vendor is unhappy for any testing, that's reason enough to move on!

 

[Firefox]

Agree generally about damp meters.

You can get the wrong impression, thinking the whole place is saturated when it's just a bit of thin surface condensation. I would say use your meter beforehand to test out your house and other areas you have access to eg a brick wall or a fence in the street. Test under different conditions to give yourself an idea of the kind of readings you might expect for differing materials.

 

[motorhomevalet]

Have to say I agree about the use of dampmeters. Another thing to think about is when you have purchased your van don't take it back there for its habitation service. If it is damp they are going to admit it are they, so a minor problem could turn major over time