Habitation Checks

Do I need a habitation check on my campervan? I get asked this question a lot. A campervan habitation check is a thorough inspection of the living area of your campervan. It is carried out by a qualified engineer to ensure that all of the systems and appliances are working safely and efficiently. My insurance like to know that I have had a gas check for the hob each year. They never ask to see a copy of the gas certificate. But you never know, they may do one day…

Habitation checks are not legally required, but they are highly recommended, especially if you are planning on using your campervan extensively or hiring it out to others.

A typical habitation check will include the following:

• Gas system: Checking the gas pipes, connections, and appliances for leaks and damage.
• Water system: Checking the water tanks, pumps, and pipes for leaks and damage.
• Electrical system: Checking the wiring, sockets, and appliances for safety and functionality.
• Damp check: Using a damp meter to check the walls, roof, and floor of the campervan for dampness. Usually motorhomes and caravans only.
• Ventilation check: Checking that the campervan is adequately ventilated to prevent condensation and dampness.
• Safety equipment check: Checking that the campervan has all of the required safety equipment, such as a fire extinguisher, carbon monoxide detector, and first aid kit.

The engineer will also carry out a general inspection of the campervan to check for any other signs of damage or wear and tear.

Once the habitation check is complete, the engineer will provide you with a report detailing any findings and recommendations. If any repairs or replacements are needed, the engineer will be able to quote you for the work.

It is recommended that you have your campervan habitation check carried out annually, or more often if you use it frequently.

Here are some of the benefits of having your campervan habitation check carried out regularly:

• It helps to ensure that your campervan is safe and compliant with all relevant safety regulations.
• It can help to identify and fix any potential problems early on before they cause serious damage or injury.
• It can help to maintain the value of your campervan.

If you are planning on buying a second-hand campervan, it is a good idea to have it habitation checked before you buy it. This will give you peace of mind knowing that the campervan is in good condition and safe to use. This also would apply to motorhomes and caravans.

It’s also a good idea to make sure you have the engine of your campervan or motorhome serviced each year, and by law you have to have an MOT each year for UK residents.