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 and brakes
Interior inspection
12V and 240V electrics
Gas system
Plumbing and water
Appliances
Documentation
Tips for handover day
- Take photos of everything, especially serial numbers, the weighbridge certificate and any existing damage.
- Allow two to three hours for a thorough PDI. Don't let the dealer rush you.
- Get every fault in writing. The dealer should sign off on each fix, with a date, before you leave.
- Bring a multimeter to check battery voltage and confirm the charging systems work.
If you find a fault
- Record it: take photos or video and note the problem in writing.
- Get it in writing: have the dealer acknowledge the fault and commit to a fix date.
- Delay pickup for a major fault: leave the van and return when it is fixed.
- Know your rights: under Australian Consumer Law, the product must be fit for purpose.
Once the van is yours, read your first 30 days with a new caravan. It 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 matches the spec and every system works. It also catches factory faults while the dealer is still responsible for fixing 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 seven groups: exterior and lights, coupling and brakes, interior, electrics, gas, 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. 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.
What are the most critical items to check?
Check the coupling is clean and greased, the safety chains are rated correctly and the breakaway system works. Check the electric brakes respond, the gas bottles are present and the regulator has a current compliance date. Check the RCD safety switch trips and the running, brake and indicator lights work. Do not accept the van with a fault in any of these.
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 the PDI is when you find those faults. Note every fault on the dealer's handover form. Do not sign until each one is fixed or scheduled in writing, and do not tow the van away with a safety-critical fault. Contract terms cannot override the ACL.
What documents should you leave with?
The compliance plate details, the gas and electrical compliance certificates, and the weighbridge ticket showing tare weight. Also every appliance's manual and warranty card, the caravan's own warranty document, and the handover checklist signed by both parties. If any document is missing, note it on the form.
Still choosing a van?
Browse and compare vans before you order one.