RV Inspector: Is there such a thing, or position?

[BobsYourUncle]

Often a random thought enters my head as I think of different trades and professions.

I've been in the home renovation business for over 43 years now. I worked at a trailer factory in the 70's. I have extensive knowledge and understanding of how stuff is built, including RV's. And I have done extensive repair work on homes and RV's.

Here is the point of this post:

I will be 64 in July, I'm still working building sunrooms and patio covers. Can't take it any more. Severely injured right shoulder, rotator cuff, 2 tendons torn right off, another partly torn. I can't do my work like I used to. Doctor has ordered me to stay off ladders, roofs and other high places.

Wasn't smart enough to secure my future financially. Have to keep working. That's a whole other story I could write......

So I'm looking at other options or things I could do.

I have often done inspections of used RV's as a favor for people who don't know what to look for.

I'm wondering and asking here. Is there a market for RV inspectors? Do they offer training courses anywhere for additional knowledge beyond what I already know? Does such a trade exist?

I'm looking for another profession I could train for that's not so hard on my body as heavy construction is.

Any thoughts on this? Likely would be seasonal. Fine with me, I'd like to spend some time for me for once in my life before I croak...

[jplante4]

I did the online NRVIA inspector course and signed up with them to get listed in their database. I didn't go to do the hands-on portion. I don't remember how much it was, but it wasn't cheap. I just wanted some knowledge about RV systems so I could fix something on the road. Come time to renew, I didn't because I got exactly zero referrals from NRVIA. I didn't see any reason to send them more money.

Fast forward to a couple of weeks ago, I did a webcast with the local dealers' association about inspections. They put up my website as part of the cast. 7 o'clock the next morning I get an email from NRVIA saying that I needed to take their logo off my website because I didn't keep up. I did that right away and wrote back saying that if their marketing department was as efficient as their web police, then I would still be a member.

I was not impressed with NRVIA. Their prices are unreasonable and they take about half the fee. I didn't get a single referral in 2 years.

[BobsYourUncle]

jfkmk wrote:
Have you considered being a home inspector? Or maybe both a home and an rv inspector? Seems kind of limited just inspecting rvs, especially since the service techs also inspect them.

Yes I actually have seriously considered that. I have a couple inquiries out for more info. Might get some training paid for, as wiping out my shoulder came from a work accident.

[jfkmk]

Have you considered being a home inspector? Or maybe both a home and an rv inspector? Seems kind of limited just inspecting rvs, especially since the service techs also inspect them.

[valhalla360]

Still climbing and crawling around to do it right.

Might want to check out the disclaimers on a sample boat survey. Reality is you won't be able to find everything and you need to cover yourself. Even with that don't forget errors and omissions insurance. RVs can be pretty expensive and if you miss an expensive issue, they could come back and hit you up for the loss.

[MEXICOWANDERER]

The more ASI credentials you have the more compelling presentation you will have with the public.

A well laid out picto graphic inspection report would make your results more comprehensible to the public.

You need to state clearly in print the thoroughness of your inspection and what it is you are looking for.

You also need to state clearly stuff that is impossible to predict ie transmission remaining life, or, if your inspection does not include chassis running gear. Specifications for heating, refrigeration. water heating. What ate the definitions of Good / Bad ?

[BobsYourUncle]

dpgllg wrote:
All good advice above

One thing that may be an issue is the "no ladders" part. I think most RV inspections would include the roof. If your not able to do ladders then this would be a problem.

Dave

I'm not too concerned about the no ladders deal. I still do it anyways, just have to be more careful. Climbing on an RV roof is nothing compared to where my work puts me.
But it is time to stop dangling 3 stories in the air trying to attach stuff together.
Doctor equates climbing a ladder to shoulder work. Doesn't have to be so.

I appreciate the comments here.

[Isaac-1]

I agree the no ladders is a deal breaker, I took the NRVIA level 2 inspector course a few months ago, and to meet their inspection standards one must inspect the roof, this is best done by crawling around on the roof, looking at the sealant up close, but if roof access is not allowed by the owner,it can be done from a ladder around the perimeter.

[dpgllg]

All good advice above

One thing that may be an issue is the "no ladders" part. I think most RV inspections would include the roof. If your not able to do ladders then this would be a problem.

Dave

[kerrlakeRoo]

Below in the new vs used comment
www.nrvia.org
was mentioned as a training as well as a referral source.
As was also mentioned in your region you may find work opportunities scarce. But you may want to expand on this theme.
Home inspections would encompass much of what you state your background as and are done not just for home buyers, but also for insurers. Insurance companies hire folks for commercial examinations as well as residential.
You would go and photograph the location, measure all buildings, and document construction where possible. I did this as bit work for a while to supplement myself as I finished construction on my house.

Search Indeed.com and others in your area for listings.

[Optimistic_Para]

Premier RV Inspections

https://lemonsquad.com/used-car-inspections/rv

https://nrvia.org/

https://rvinspection.com/

[donn0128]

Most RV mobile mechanics do RV inspections too. So, yes there is a need. In your area it might be very limited and seasonal, but it could make you a few dollars.