More than

800,000

people buy a new or used RV in the United States each year.
One thing every RV (new and used) has in common;

they ALL have something wrong with them.

Do you know what is wrong with the RV you are planning to buy?


Joy > Regret

You buy an RV to bring your family JOY, to make special memories, to see far away places, taking your dog, cat, and fish with you. You don’t buy an RV to have REGRET, wishing you had known the true condition of the RV BEFORE you bought it.


My name is David russell
(rv shepherd)

I’m a veteran U.S. Navy Submariner. My wife and I are also full-time RVers. I would love to help you have confidence in your RV buying experience by providing a Certified RV Inspection before you finalize a purchase. Schedule a FREE 30 min call with me today.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING


David saved me from making a bad decision. I was considering the purchase of an RV in Ft. Pierce, FL. I hired David to take a look at… read more

Meredith Whitney Avatar Meredith Whitney
July 17, 2023

We are so glad we found RV Shepherd in our search for certified inspectors. We had a bad experience with another company, so it was so refreshing to find… read more

Cindy Merrill Avatar Cindy Merrill
April 5, 2023

It was just by chance we found Dave to do an rv inspection for us. He wanted to make sure we read his reviews so we would be comfortable working… read more

Barbara MacMannis Avatar Barbara MacMannis
March 26, 2023

One of the nicest and most professional rv inspectors I’ve ever met. Extremely punctual and knowledgeable. Was kind enough to drive to camping world in Fort Pierce to look at… read more

Emily Rose Avatar Emily Rose
March 26, 2023

I highly recommened you hire RV Shepherd whether buying new or used. I’ve been dealing with warranty repair issues on my brand new 2021 Winnegabo for over a year.… read more

Daniel Garcia Avatar Daniel Garcia
February 26, 2023

An inspector with integrity! We hired RV Shepherd to inspect a used diesel pusher. We were pressed for time and he pulled the fluid analysis before doing the inspection. Thank… read more

Gary Bailey Avatar Gary Bailey
January 25, 2023

David @ RV Shepherd is great! He was prompt in getting back to us to set up the initial call, scheduled the inspection with the local RV Dealer, and… read more

Margaret Brown Avatar Margaret Brown
January 11, 2023

No need to shop around. This is the guy. We couldn’t recommend more highly.

Carisa Cunningham Avatar Carisa Cunningham
January 8, 2023

David at RV Shepherd did an excellent job inspecting our new to us 2020 Winnebago View. We were over 1,000 miles away from the dealership and it gave us great… read more

Kristin Weigand Avatar Kristin Weigand
November 30, 2022

RV Shepherd was extremely helpful when I purchased my motorhome. The report was very detailed and provided very useful information. He took a good amount of time on the phone… read more

Laura Taylor Oostdyk Avatar Laura Taylor Oostdyk
November 29, 2022

David is awesome! He is very thorough and checks everything! David was very kind and patience, answering all our questions. I would highly recommend David. He is professional and very… read more

Nicole Hughes Avatar Nicole Hughes
November 19, 2022

I am new to the RV world but it is something my wife and have been wanting to pursue for many years. Even though the RV that I was looking… read more

Jean-Jacques Alford Avatar Jean-Jacques Alford
October 22, 2022

David went the extra mile and found a water leak in a RV we wanted to purchase. Finding the hidden damage in advance of our purchase probably saved us months/years… read more

Johnny Dalrymple Avatar Johnny Dalrymple
September 12, 2022

If you want an RV inspector who will go “above and beyond” to get you the information you need to make an informed purchase, then I believe David Russell should… read more

Coral Undzis Avatar Coral Undzis
September 12, 2022

Real informative, knowledgeable inspector who cares about helping you. Timely, professional communication. Highly recommend and would use this service again if needed.

Rob Adamo Avatar Rob Adamo
July 12, 2022

David is a fabulous inspector! He is thorough with exceptional attention to detail and work ethic. He is very kind and easy to talk to. I feel comfortable asking him… read more

Hairchitexture Salon Avatar Hairchitexture Salon
June 12, 2022

David is good person to work with, very through, high quality service. I highly recommend him.

Jennifer Tipton Avatar Jennifer Tipton
May 12, 2022


Four Steps to Enjoy the RV Life

1:

YOU

Schedule a Call
2.

WE

Inspect the RV
3.
SELLER
has Repairs Made
4.
YOU
Enjoy the RV Life

TAKE THE FIRST STEP

Certified RV Inspection

We appreciate your business and look forward to providing you with the most advanced RV inspection available in today’s RV market.  The goal is to thoroughly inspect your RV. To accomplish this the RV will need to be hooked up to all the utilities: freshwater, electricity, and sewer during the inspection. If those services are not available, we can complete the majority of the inspection, but some items may not be fully evaluated.

Due to the nature of RV absorption refrigerators and the time it takes for these refrigerators to cool, the refrigerator must have been in operation for at least 12 hours before an accurate temperature reading can be taken in the freezer and the refrigerator compartments. This is not required for residential style refrigerators.

This report will include an exhaustive number of photos or video describing items that have been identified during the detailed Elite Motorhome Inspection.

* Laboratory fluid analysis is highly recommended for full evaluation of motorized components (motor, transmission, and generator). For your convenience and to provide flexibility, fluid analysis can be conducted on the components you choose in advance. Those can be pre-purchased (see pricing at the bottom of this document). Analysis on the items your choose will be performed at the time of the inspection. 

Inspection Points
Roof
Evaluate the overall Roof Condition.
Identify the Roof material type and the sealants that have been applied to the roof.
Inspect the condition of sealant and joints around the roofing components.
Evaluate the condition of roof vents, air conditioners, antenna, other components that are mounted on the roof.
Identify areas of concern and potential water intrusion points.
Sidewall and End Caps
Inspect and identify the material type of the front and rear caps.
Evaluate the aging and general overall condition of the front and rear caps.
Inspect and evaluate the appearance and functional condition of the sidewalls, entrance doors, windows and cargo access doors.
Inspect and evaluate any damage, discoloration and delamination of the side wall and end cap components.
Slide Out Rooms
Identify the types of slideout room drive systems.
Identify the type of roof material for the slideout room.
Inspect and rate the roof condition.
Inspect and evaluate the condition of the seals, sweeps and gaskets for possible damage.
Evaluate the attached wiring and utility harness that feed underneath the slide out room.
Awnings and Slide Out Toppers
Inspect and identify operational type (manual vs electric) of the awnings, slideout toppers and window awnings.
Operate and rate condition of the awning frames and latching mechanisms.
Evaluate and rate the condition of fabric material of the awnings.
Chassis Turn Signal and Running Lights (12-volt DC)
Inspect the condition of the 7-pin connector receptacle.
Activate and evaluate the operation of the DOT lights.
Visually inspect the chassis battery compartment the electrical connections and batteries.
120 Volt AC Electrical System (house type power)
Inspect and rate the condition of the power cord and its connection ends.
Identify any damage or repair of the power cord.
Remove cover panel of 120-volt circuit breaker box to visually inspect the condition of the wiring, circuit breakers and grounding connections.
List any heat discoloration to the wiring and connections.
Verify the separation of all the wiring types.
Test and verify the output operation of the 120 VAC to 12 VDC converter for charging of the deep cycle batteries.
Generator – if installed
Verify run hours of the generator.
Check oil level.
Start, operate and test the onboard generator under load.
Visually inspect the coolant reservoir, radiator and hoses.
Location of the radiator and cooling fans.
Conduct laboratory analysis of generator oil. (see pricing info below)Optional
Conduct laboratory analysis of generator coolant. (see pricing info below)Optional
Inverter – if installed
Visually inspect the wiring and electrical connections and fuses/circuit breakers.
Place electrical load on inverter to verify proper operation.
Test voltage and frequency output of the inverter under fifty percent load.
Coach Battery System – (12-volt DC deep cycle Battery Electrical System)
Locate and note the location of the battery stack.
Evaluate the condition, age and matched sizing of the battery stack.
Evaluate and determine if positive and negative cables are correctly matched for balanced load.
Access and visually inspect the wiring, fuse panel and fuses of the 12-volt DC electrical system.
Evaluate the operation of the fresh water /waste water monitor panel.
Fresh Water System
Verify the fresh water connections for the City Water hookup are operational.
Verify the onboard fresh water tank and pressure pump system will operate and maintain pressure.
Operationally test all fresh water fixtures inside and outside of the RV.
Visually inspect the water filtration system (if installed) for leaks and filter placement.
Waste Water Systems – (Gray and Black Water)
Operationally test and inspect both waste (gray and black) plumbing systems for leaks under the sinks, shower, around the toilet and discharge lines.
Identify the type drain valve controls.
Verify the drain valves for both systems will maintain water in their tanks.
Operate both drain valves and test for ease of operation.
Verify the drain cap is in place and will hold waste water.
Life Safety Items
Perform and document LP gas timed leak test.
Test the Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) circuits in the 6-foot range of the water areas of the bathroom, kitchen and exterior receptacles.
Test all wall receptacles for correct polarity and ground fault.
Test the exterior skin for Hot Skin that would cause electrical shock.
Emergency Exit Windows – Verify all safety windows are operational.
Fire Extinguisher – Verify unit is secure in bracket and dial indicates extinguisher is fully charged.
Smoke/Fire Detector –Test and verify operation of units.
Carbon Monoxide Detector (if applicable) – Test and verify operation of unit.
LP Gas Detector – Verify gas detection and audio alarm. Document expiration date of detector.
Verify the rubber grommet is properly sealed around LP gas line of water heater.
LP Gas System 
Visually inspect all hoses and pressure regulators for damage and age deterioration.
Verify plastic cover has been installed over regulator.
On Split tank system verify the red colored single stage regulator is installed.
On ASME tank system, if tank is visible, conduct a visual inspection of tank for rust or physical damage.
List the location of the tank.
Document the manufacture date of the ASME tank if accessible.
List the gallon capacity of the tank.
Refrigerator 
Note the location of the vent panels used by refrigerator.
Operate on all sources – 120-volt AC, LP gas and for 3 way refrigerators, 12-volt DC.
Verify with manufacturer if recall notice has been issued and completed for this unit.
Visually verify if baffle system on back of refrigerator area is correct and directing heat away from gas coils.
Test for interior temperature of upper and lower refrigerator compartments and ice maker (if installed) *if refrigerator has been operating for minimum of 12 hours.
Check condition of door frame, shelving, crisper drawers, door shelves and interior light.
Evaluate and rate the door gasket seals of freezer and refrigerator box areas.
Water Heater – if equipped
Identify the brand, and type of water heater.
Visually inspect burner assembly and gas exhaust system for blockages and insect infestation.
Fill tank with water (if necessary) and verify operation on all heat sources – LP gas and 120-volt AC if equipped with heating element.
If installed, operate, and verify positioning of bypass valves on back of water heater.
Determine if proper drain plug has been installed in water heater tank.
If installed, inspect, and evaluate if the correct type of dauber screen has been/is being used.
Furnace – if equipped
If accessible, identify the brand of furnace(s) that have been installed.
Identify the type of thermostat controls being used to operate furnace(s).
Visually inspect air intake and exhaust assemblies for blockages and insect infestation.
Operate and verify warm air discharge out of vents and proper return air flow to unit.
Monitor for unusual noise or vibration of blower motor.
If installed, inspect, and evaluate if the correct type of dauber screen is being used.
Cook Top/ Stove
Evaluate and rate the condition of the cook top or stove.
List presence and condition of stove top covers.
Verify the ignition and operation of all top burners and the oven flame (if equipped).
Inspect and rate the condition of the metal grill top and rubber grommets of top burner area.
Evaluate the presence of the control knobs, door handles and oven racks of the unit.
Air Conditioner(s)
Identify and list the type of cooling unit/heat pump.
Perform cooling efficiency test (Delta T) on each unit.
Inspect the air filter(s) debris and cleanliness.
Washer/ Dryer
Visually inspect and verify a wash and rinse cycle of the washer and dryer.
Visually inspect for leaks or damaged hoses.
Evaluate and rate the exterior condition of the dryer exhaust vent.
Microwave/Convection Oven
Identify and list the brand, type, and output wattage of the unit.
Verify the rack and turn tables are installed.
Operate unit for 60 seconds utilizing cup of water and then list water temperature.
Dishwasher – if installed
Identify and list the brand of unit.
Verify operation of unit and inspect for leaks and non-functioning rotating racks and wash bars.
In House Vacuum System – if installed
Identify and list the brand and type of unit.
Verify the operation and visually inspect the various components of the hose assembly, access doors and dirt bag.
Electric Fireplace – if installed
Identify and list the brand and type of unit.
Operate and verify the various heat settings, fan speed levels and the back lighting.
Cook Top Exhaust Fan
Operate and verify condition of the exhaust function and fan speeds.
Visually inspect the filter and lighting.
Evaluate and rate the exterior condition of the exhaust vent.
Ceiling Mounted Fans and Ceiling Exhaust Vents
Visually inspect the condition of the blades and motor.
Operate and verify condition of the blade direction and fan speeds.
Verify lighting if equipped.
Interior Conditions and Appearance
Visually inspect all ceilings, walls, interior doors and flooring for signs of water intrusion, surface damage and/or staining
Operate all windows and doors noting any deficiencies or missing components.
Evaluate the window coverings.
Operate all interior, exterior and décor lighting  – 12-volt and 120-volts.
Cabinets and Closet Condition
Inspect and evaluate all cabinet doors, drawers and pull out operation.
Visually inspect all counter tops and flat surface areas of the kitchen, living room, bathroom, bedroom and storage areas for scratches and damage.
Identify and list all broken and loose cabinet and closet hardware.
Note if appearance of previous damage repairs have been performed.
Furniture
Visually inspect the condition of the dinette table/booth, chairs, recliners and sofa.
Inspect and note furniture fabric tears, discoloration and signs of excessive wear.
Visually inspect and note signs of mattress damage or staining.
Entertainment System
Visually inspect and operate all TV and stereo equipment.
Verify DVD/disc players and radios are operational.
Verify local channels antenna and 12-volt DC power signal booster is operational.
Raise and lower roof mounted antenna if equipped.
Verify remotes are operational.
Shower/Tub Enclosure
Visually inspect the glass panels, curtains and soap dish areas.
Evaluate and rate the seals around the frame work and doors for water leaks.
Operate the door and latch system to verify its operation.
Inspect and evaluate the stains and chemical/mineral buildup.
 
Motor Home – Please note the following items: Due to insurance issues the Motor Home can NOT be driven by the Inspector. Also, the lack of clearance under the motor home and safety issues the Inspector will conduct the following visual inspections from the outer perimeter of the motor home.
 
Chassis and Undercarriage
Visually inspect for rust, damage and excessive oil on the underside of the motor home.
Steering
Visually inspect for bent or damaged components and hydraulic leaks.
Leveling System
Identify and note the brand and type of system.
Operate by extending and retracting leveling system.
Check for hydraulic leaks or mechanical issues.
Engine *strongly recommend performing oil analysis to determine internal combustion engine component condition.
Make and model of the engine.
Verify oil level on the dipstick.
Indications of engine issues or any noises while running.
Note the oil pressure reading on the dash gauges.
Location of the radiator and cooling fans.
Visually inspect the coolant reservoir, radiator and hoses.
Are there noticeable oil or exhaust leaks.
Conduct laboratory analysis of engine oil. (see pricing info below)Optional
Conduct laboratory analysis of engine coolant.  (see pricing info below)Optional
Transmission *strongly recommend performing transmission fluid analysis to determine the condition of the fluid and the internal components of the transmission.
Type of transmission.
Fluid level on dipstick (if available. Some transmission systems are sealed).
Indications of contaminated transmission fluid.
Conduct laboratory analysis of transmission fluid. (see pricing info below)Optional
Running Gear (Motor Home)
Type and number of axles.
Weight Ratings for Each Axle Set.
Inspect theframe, axles, springs, rims and other components for rust, oil stains and visible damage.
Document the information on the tires as to their age, tire tread condition and weight capacities.
Check tire pressure.
Inspect and rate tire tread condition.
Note any valve extensions and pressure monitors.
Hitch System/Hook Up
Inspect and identify the type of system used to tow vehicles.
Evaluate and list modifications to hitch system.
Weight Labels and Data Plates
Identify and document the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Document the License plate info.
List the Inspection sticker information – if applicable.
List the RVIA inspection seal number.
List the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.
List date of manufacturer.
List the Manufacturer’s Build Sheet (if available).
List Owner Stated Comments (if present).
  

The purchase of a recreational vehicle is a big investment for most people. Whether you plan on full-time RVing or a few trips a year, it is important to know the condition of the RV you plan to purchase, whether it is new or old, $15,000,  $500,000 or $5,000,000.

Can you purchase a home or car without it being professionally inspected? An RV is both a home and a car, a home on wheels. If you plan to purchase an RV of any price, type, or size in Port St. Lucie, FL; Fort Pierce, FL; Vero Beach, FL; Melbourne, FL; or the surrounding area consider certified RV inspection. We carry out the most advanced RV inspection available in today’s RV market.

Thorough RV Inspection

Our goal is to thoroughly inspect your RV. Our inspections are comprehensive and detailed. We will not quickly gloss over the RV using a checklist. We will test and verify every system and document our findings. Our report will have an exhaustive number of videos and/or photos describing the problems that have been identified during the recreational vehicle inspection.

Our inspections cover:

Water Intrusion Inspection

Are you aware of the possible signs of water intrusion? Our RV inspection in Port St. Lucie, FL; Fort Pierce, FL; Vero Beach, FL; Melbourne, FL; or the surrounding area, will evaluate the doors, windows, sidewalls, and roof for water intrusion. We will identify potential water intrusion points.

• Our trained and experienced professionals will visually inspect all walls, ceilings, and doors, for signs of water intrusion, staining, and surface damage.

One of the most common problems with RVs is water intrusion. If this problem is not fixed on time, it can cause extensive damage. Before you make a purchase, it is important to identify all water intrusion points.

Underside Inspection

Certified RV inspection will evaluate the undercarriage, wheels, suspension, coolant, and transmission to identify possible fluid leaks.

• Our experts in Port St. Lucie, FL; Fort Pierce, FL; Vero Beach, FL; Melbourne, FL; or the surrounding area will visually inspect the underside of the motorhome for damage, rust, and excessive oil. 

• Underside inspection also involves determining the make and model of the engine, verifying the oil level on the dipstick, noting the oil pressure reading, and identifying visible engine issues.

• Laboratory analysis of engine oil, engine coolant, and transmission fluid can be carried out depending on the preferences of the customer.

Roof Inspection

The roof is an important part of a recreational vehicle. It protects against the elements. We will inspect and rate the roof condition.

• The overall roof condition will be evaluated. We will determine the roof material type and the sealants that have been used. Our professionals will inspect the condition of joints and sealant around the roofing components.

• The condition of roof vents, antenna, and other components on the roof will also be evaluated. For a thorough inspection, we will raise and lower the roof-mounted antenna.

Inspecting Ceilings, Windows, Doors, Walls & Floors for Damage

All ceilings, walls, flooring, doors, and windows will be visually inspected for staining, surface damage, and water intrusion. Ceiling exhaust vents and ceiling-mounted fans will be thoroughly examined.

• Our experts will evaluate the appearance and functional condition of entrance doors, sidewalls, cargo access doors, and windows.

• Certified RV inspection in Port St. Lucie, FL; Fort Pierce, FL; Vero Beach, FL; Melbourne, FL; or the surrounding area also involves inspecting for any damage, delamination, and discoloration of end cap and sidewall components.

• We check all windows and doors. We check for smudges, tears, and rips on the exterior walls and interior décor.

Shower Enclosure Inspection

During your RV trip, you will need to take showers; therefore, the shower enclosure area is important. To ensure this area is free from defects, we will visually inspect the glass panels, soap dishes, and curtains.

• Our certified RV inspection in Port St. Lucie, FL; Fort Pierce, FL; Vero Beach, FL; Melbourne, FL; or the surrounding area will evaluate the seals around the doors and framework for water leaks. We will operate the door and latch system to see if they are functional.

• Stains and mineral buildup in the shower area will be inspected and evaluated.

Inspecting Interior Décor

Furniture plays an important role in an RV; it serves aesthetic and functional purposes. That is why our professionals will inspect the condition of tables, chairs, booths, recliners, and the sofa. They will note down signs of excessive wear, discoloration, and fabric tears.

• Interior décor inspection also covers the inspection of mattresses and entertainment systems. Our professionals will verify whether DVD players, TVs, roof-mounted antennas, and remotes are operational.

• Interior décor inspection will confirm the functionality of the refrigerator, washer, microwave, oven, stove, and built-in vacuum systems.

Inspecting the Functionality of AC Units, Furnaces, Water Heaters, Water Systems, Propane Systems & Ventilation Fans

Are AC units, furnaces, and water heaters working optimally? This will be answered by certified RV inspection. Things to be inspected include types of cooling units, heat pumps, cooling efficiency, and the cleanliness of air filters.

• The hoses, pressure regulators, and rubber grommet of water heaters will be visually inspected for damage and age deterioration. Our inspectors will verify that freshwater connections and ventilation fans are operational.

• We will perform a propane leak test to determine the functionality of propane systems. Propane leaks can be caused by unexpected damage or wear within the line. A buildup of propane leakage can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning.

• We will operationally test all freshwater fixtures outside and inside of the motorhome. Inspection of the water filtration system will be done to identify leaks.

• Our professionals in Port St. Lucie, FL; Fort Pierce, FL; Vero Beach, FL; Melbourne, FL; or the surrounding area will test gray and black water waste systems to identify leaks around the discharge lines.

Inspecting Emergency Exit Windows & Fire Extinguishers

Inspectors will verify whether the fire extinguisher is secure in the bracket and fully charged. They will verify the functionality of fire detectors and emergency exits.

Inspecting Slide Out Rooms

Our inspectors who serve the Port St. Lucie, FL; Fort Pierce, FL; Vero Beach, FL; Melbourne, FL; and the surrounding area will determine the functionality, condition, and operability of slide-out rooms. The roof condition will be inspected and rated. Also to be evaluated includes the condition of gaskets, sweeps, and seals.

Count On Us For Unbiased & Independent Inspection!

Our experts guarantee unbiased and independent inspection of a recreational vehicle. We have no vested interest in the sale outcome; therefore, we will not turn a blind eye to any issue. Whether you are a buyer, seller, current owner, or dealer, you can trust our certified RV inspection to evaluate the condition of the recreational vehicle you are interested in. We serve Port St. Lucie, FL; Fort Pierce, FL; Vero Beach, FL; Melbourne, FL; and the surrounding areas. Call today! (772)773-MyRV [6978]