📋 Essential Checklist
Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)
Checklist
Don't leave the dealer until you've checked everything. This is your one chance to catch issues while they're still the dealer's problem.
⚠️Items marked in red are critical — don't skip them!
8
Categories
68
Check Items
7
Critical Items
🔍
Exterior Inspection
Body panels free of dents, scratches, or damageCRITICAL
All decals applied straight and bubble-free
Windows and seals intact (no gaps, cracks)
Stone guard fitted and secure
Entry door operates smoothly, latches properly
Service hatches (gas, battery, water fill) open/close correctly
Awning extends and retracts smoothly
External lights function (running, brake, indicators, reversing)
Spare wheel present and properly secured
Jockey wheel operates correctly
Stabiliser legs extend and retract
A-frame and chassis welds look clean (no rust)
🔗
Coupling & Brakes
Coupling clean and greasedCRITICAL
Safety chains attached with correct rating
Breakaway system tested
Electric brake connector works (test with brake controller)
Handbrake engages and holds
Wheel bearings have no excessive play
Tyres correct pressure with no damage
Wheel nuts torqued to spec (dealer should confirm)
🛋️
Interior Inspection
Upholstery and bedding present and undamaged
Mattress correct size and comfortable
Curtains/blinds operate correctly
All cupboard doors and drawers open/close properly
No loose trim or rattles when walking through
Floor stable, no soft spots
Entry step deploys and retracts correctly
Roof hatches open and seal properly
Rangehood fan operates
⚡
12V & 240V Electrics
All 12V lights work (including reading lights)CRITICAL
USB and 12V outlets work
House battery charges from 240V
Battery monitor/display shows correct voltage
Solar panel connected and charging (if fitted)
240V outlets work (test with phone charger)
Safety switch (RCD) trips when tested
Anderson plug / external 12V works
Water pump runs and primes
🔥
Gas System
Gas bottles present and filledCRITICAL
Regulator fitted with current compliance date
Gas isolation valve operates
Cooktop/stove ignites on all burners
Oven heats correctly (if fitted)
Hot water system (HWS) ignites and heats
3-way fridge runs on gas
Diesel heater runs (if fitted)
💧
Plumbing & Water
Fresh water tank fills correctlyCRITICAL
Water pump pressurises system
All taps flow (cold and hot)
No leaks under sink or from connections
Toilet flushes and seals correctly
Grey water drains properly
City water connection (if fitted) pressurises without pump
Shower drains without pooling
📺
Appliances
Fridge runs on 12V, 240V, and gas
Microwave operates (if fitted)
Air conditioner cools and heats
TV antenna raises and signal works
Washing machine runs (if fitted)
Diesel heater starts and heats (if fitted)
📄
Documentation
Registration papers / transfer documentsCRITICAL
Weighbridge certificate (ATM and Tare)CRITICAL
Warranty certificate with start date
Owner's manual for caravan
Appliance manuals (fridge, AC, etc.)
Gas compliance certificate
Electrical compliance certificate
Service schedule / logbook
💡 Pro Tips
- 📸Take photos of everything — especially serial numbers, weighbridge certificate, and any existing damage.
- ⏰Allow 2-3 hours for a thorough PDI. Don't let the dealer rush you.
- 📝Document any issues in writing — get the dealer to sign off on rectification before you leave.
- 🚫Don't accept "we'll fix it later" — once you leave, your leverage disappears.
- 🔋Bring a multimeter — check battery voltage and confirm charging systems work.
⚠️ Found an Issue?
- Document it — take photos/video and note the problem in writing.
- Get it in writing — have the dealer acknowledge the issue and commit to a fix date.
- Consider delaying pickup — if it's a major issue, leave the van and return when fixed.
- Know your rights — under Australian Consumer Law, the product must be fit for purpose.