Campervan Inspection Checklist — New Zealand

Viewing prompts, followed by an independent inspection. Updated 15 October 2026. Full explanations: kiwivanmarket.com/guide/campervan-buyer-checklist

1 · The night before (from your hostel)

• Vehicle identity and records — plate, VIN, service history; check third-party report scope and fees
• PPSR search (ppsr.govt.nz) — read registered security interests; resolve any result before buying
• Price compared to similar listings — under-market = a question, not a win
• Two messages sent — service record photos? + no engine warm-up before I arrive
• Viewing booked in daylight, dry weather if possible

2 · First five minutes on site

• Stance — van sits level, no sagging corner
• Tyres — correct specification, tread, condition and wear patterns for the inspector to assess
• Smell test inside — no damp odour on first opening
• Ownership story asked — to match against CarJam dates later

3 · Walk-around: body & rust

• Panel gaps & paint tone — record differences and ask about repairs; appearance cannot rule out damage
• Previous body repairs — invoices and photos; a magnet cannot prove sound structure
• Underbody — inspect from a safe position; never crawl under an unsupported vehicle; arrange professional access
• Window rubbers / roof seams — no bubbling paint around glass
• Under carpets/mats — floor solid, no rot

4 · Bonnet up, then the test drive

• Bonnet cold before start — genuine cold start, clean idle, no lasting smoke
• Oil and coolant — check safely; never open a hot cooling system; contamination needs a mechanic's diagnosis
• Exact engine and maintenance — belt or chain, invoices, manufacturer's schedule and work due
• Safe test route — suitable speed and conditions; note vibration or warning lights
• A real hill — temperature steady, power holds
• Speed bump slow — no clunks; corners settle after a push
• Braking and steering — safe observations only; ask the inspector to investigate pull, noise or vibration
• All gears twice incl. reverse — no crunch, no hesitation

5 · Camper kit: test, don't admire

• Self-contained claim — current certificate, green warrant and SCV register; blue warrants are no longer valid
• Water in / water out — tap runs, drain flows, wood under sink firm
• Phone charged from every 12V/USB socket
• Fridge, lights and battery — test operation; record type, capacity and charging; a short test cannot prove battery health
• Solar numbers — panel wattage + controller brand given
• Gas safety — documents and qualified gasfitter if uncertain; stop if gas is suspected; no portable gas appliances inside or under awnings
• Mattress lifted — no brown rings on the plywood

6 · Money & paperwork

• WoF date and expiry; rego status — buyer can insist on WoF under one month old; follow NZTA rules for older/expired inspections
• RUC, if applicable — distance covers odometer; resolve unpaid charges; unused RUC remains with the vehicle
• Written sale and cleared payment — parties, price, date, plate, VIN, equipment, faults and agreed conditions; keep copies
• Both NZTA notifications immediately; buyer without NZ licence uses an agent; registration does not prove legal ownership
• Insurance active before driving away