Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI)
the checks to do before you sign at handover
Every fault you find now is the dealer's to fix, so do not leave the yard until the dealer writes it down.
Check the safety items first: the coupling, the safety chains, the brakes, the gas, and the safety switch.
Updated . 10 min read • Buying Guide
A pre-delivery inspection is the check you do with the dealer at handover, before you sign and tow the van away.
Allow two to three hours. Australian Consumer Law lets you refuse delivery of goods that are not of acceptable quality.
- Allow - two to three hours (for the inspection on handover day)
- What it covers - body, coupling, brakes, electrics, gas, plumbing, appliances, paperwork (exterior and interior, plus the documentation)
Exterior Inspection
Coupling & Brakes
Interior Inspection
12V & 240V Electrics
Gas System
Plumbing & Water
Appliances
Documentation
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.
Once the van is yours, your first 30 days with a new caravan covers the paperwork fortnight, the practice tow, the checks after the first 1,000km and booking the first service.
Common questions
What is a caravan pre-delivery inspection (PDI)?
A pre-delivery inspection is the check a buyer does with the dealer at handover, before signing paperwork and towing the caravan away. It confirms the van has been built to spec, that every system works, and that any factory faults are picked up while the dealer is still on the hook to fix them. It is your last chance to raise issues without a warranty claim.
What should you check when picking up a new caravan?
Work through it in seven groups: exterior body and lights, coupling and brakes, interior fit-out, 12V and 240V electrics, gas system, plumbing and water, and documentation. Run every appliance, test every light, fill and drain the water tanks, and confirm the safety switch trips. Sight the gas compliance date and the weighbridge ticket before you sign.
How long should a caravan PDI take?
Allow two to three hours for a thorough inspection. Anything less and you are skipping systems. Book the appointment early in the day, in dry weather where possible, and bring a torch and a phone charger to test the 240V outlets. If the dealer wants to rush you, that is itself a reason to slow down.
What are the most critical items to check?
The safety-critical ones: coupling clean and greased, safety chains rated correctly, breakaway system tested, electric brakes responding, gas bottles present with a current regulator compliance date, RCD safety switch tripping when tested, and running/brake/indicator lights all working. A fault in any of these is a refuse-to-accept item, not a fix-later item.
Can you refuse to take delivery of a caravan?
Yes. Australian Consumer Law gives you the right to reject goods that are not of acceptable quality, and a PDI is exactly when you exercise it. Note every fault on the dealer's handover form, do not sign until it is resolved or scheduled in writing, and do not tow the van away if a safety-critical item is faulty. Contract terms cannot override the ACL.
What documents should you leave with?
The compliance plate details, the gas compliance certificate, the electrical compliance certificate, the weighbridge ticket showing tare weight, every appliance's manual and warranty card, the caravan's own warranty document, and the finalised handover checklist signed by both parties. If any document is missing, note it on the form.
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