How to Start an RV Inspection Business: A Technician's Roadmap

If you are an RV technician or mechanic thinking about moving into the inspection side of the industry, you are looking at one of the best opportunities in the RV space right now. The demand for qualified inspectors continues to outpace supply in most markets, and your technical background gives you a significant head start over people entering from other fields.

I made this transition myself. I am a licensed RV technician who built an inspection practice and eventually developed WanderWise RV Reports to solve the workflow problems I encountered along the way. This guide is the roadmap I wish I had when I started, written with the specificity that a fellow technician expects. No fluff, just the concrete steps and trade-level detail you need to make informed decisions.

Step 1: Choose Your Certification Path

Your technical background means you already understand RV systems at a level that most new inspectors spend months learning. But certification is still essential. It gives you credibility with clients, access to industry networks, and structured inspection methodology that differs from repair-focused diagnostics.

NRVIA (National RV Inspectors Association)

The NRVIA certification is the most widely recognized credential in the RV inspection space. Their program includes:

• Online coursework: Comprehensive modules covering every RV system from an inspection perspective (not repair, which is a different mindset). Expect 80 to 120 hours of study, though your technical background will make much of this review rather than new learning.
• Hands-on training: In-person training sessions where you perform supervised inspections. These are offered at various locations throughout the year. The hands-on component is where you learn inspection methodology, report writing, and the business side.
• Certification exam: Written exam covering all RV systems, inspection standards, and professional practices.
• Continuing education: Annual CE requirements to maintain your certification. These keep you current on new RV technologies, code changes, and inspection techniques.
• Cost: $3,000 to $4,500 total for the full certification track including course fees, exam, and travel to in-person training. Factor in lodging and meals for the hands-on sessions.
• Timeline: Most technicians complete the process in 3 to 6 months depending on their pace through the online coursework and the scheduling of in-person sessions.

The NRVIA also provides a public inspector directory, marketing resources, and group insurance rates for members. The directory alone can generate leads, especially early in your career.

RVTI (RV Inspection Training Institute)

RVTI is another respected certification program with a slightly different curriculum approach. Their training emphasizes:

• Detailed, systems-level education with a focus on diagnostic reasoning during inspections.
• A structured inspection methodology that is consistent and defensible.
• Business development guidance specific to the RV inspection market.
• Cost: Comparable to NRVIA, typically $2,500 to $4,000 depending on the program level selected.

Some inspectors pursue both NRVIA and RVTI certifications for maximum credibility. If your budget allows, dual certification signals serious commitment to the profession.

Supplemental Certifications Worth Considering

• RVIA technician certification: If you do not already hold this, it adds credibility for the technical depth of your inspections. The RVIA Level 1 and Level 2 certifications demonstrate manufacturer-level systems knowledge.
• Thermography certification (Level I): If you plan to offer thermal imaging as part of your inspections, a Level I thermography certification from organizations like the Infrared Training Center (ITC) or Monroe Infrared gives you defensible credentials for interpreting thermal images. This is a $1,500 to $2,500 investment that differentiates your service.
• EPA 608 certification: Relevant if you plan to handle refrigerant systems during inspections or if you want to offer A/C diagnostic services as an add-on.

Step 2: Set Up the Business Entity

Business Structure

Form an LLC. It costs $50 to $500 depending on your state and provides personal liability protection that a sole proprietorship does not. Use a registered agent service if you do not want your home address on public records. File for an EIN through the IRS website (free, takes 10 minutes).

Insurance Requirements

You need three policies:

• General liability: Covers bodily injury or property damage during an inspection. If you scratch a fiberglass sidewall or trip over a chock and injure yourself, this is the policy that responds. Typical coverage: $1 million per occurrence, $2 million aggregate. Cost: $400 to $800 per year.
• Errors and omissions (E&O): Covers claims that your inspection missed a defect that the client later discovers. This is the most important policy for an inspector. Typical coverage: $500,000 to $1 million. Cost: $800 to $2,000 per year depending on coverage limits and deductible.
• Commercial auto: If you use your personal vehicle for business travel to inspection sites, your personal auto policy may not cover claims that occur during business use. A commercial auto policy or a business use endorsement on your personal policy closes that gap. Cost: $500 to $1,500 per year.

Check with NRVIA and RVTI for group insurance programs. Both organizations negotiate rates for their members that can save 15 to 25 percent compared to individual policies.

Inspection Agreement

Develop a standard pre-inspection agreement that every client signs before you begin. This document should define the scope of the inspection (what you will and will not inspect), state that the inspection is visual and non-invasive (you are not disassembling components), disclaim responsibility for conditions that are hidden, inaccessible, or that develop after the inspection, and establish your liability limit (typically the fee paid for the inspection). Have a local attorney review this document. It costs $300 to $500 for a legal review and is worth every dollar.

Step 3: Assemble Your Equipment Kit

Here is a specific equipment list with the brands and models that working inspectors actually use. This is not a generic list of categories. These are the specific tools I recommend based on real-world use.

Essential Equipment (Start Here)

• Moisture meter: Protimeter Surveymaster (pin and pinless dual mode, $350 to $400) or Wagner Orion 950 (pinless, $350). The Protimeter is the gold standard for building envelope moisture detection. Start with a dual-mode meter so you can scan quickly with capacitance and confirm with pin readings.
• Multimeter: Fluke 117 or Fluke 323 clamp meter ($150 to $200). Fluke is the industry standard for reliability and accuracy. You will use this constantly for battery voltage, converter output, generator output, and circuit verification.
• Circuit tester: Klein RT210 three-light outlet tester with GFCI test ($15). Keep two in your kit because they are easy to lose. Test every 120V outlet on every inspection.
• Non-contact voltage tester: Fluke 1AC-II or Klein NCVT-1 ($20 to $25). Essential for safety when working around electrical panels and junction boxes.
• Combustible gas detector: UEi CD100A ($100) or Bacharach Leakator 10 ($120). Use this on every propane fitting and connection. A soap-bubble test is a good confirmation, but an electronic sniffer catches small leaks faster.
• Tire tread depth gauge: AccuTread digital ($15) or a standard graduated gauge ($8). Measure every tire, every inspection. Document the readings.
• Tire pressure gauge: Accutire MS-4021B digital ($12). Check and document pressure on every tire.
• LED flashlight: Streamlight ProTac 2L-X ($50) or similar 500+ lumen tactical light. You will use this in every compartment, under every sink, in every attic space, and under the chassis. Get a quality light with a tight beam.
• Headlamp: Petzl Actik Core ($50) or Black Diamond Spot 400 ($40). Essential for under-chassis work and attic inspections where you need both hands free.
• Telescoping inspection mirror: Any quality telescoping mirror with LED illumination ($15 to $25). For seeing around corners, behind water heaters, and under appliances.
• Ladder: Little Giant MegaLite 17 ($200) or Werner MT-17 ($180). Multi-position ladders adapt to different RV heights and are stable on uneven ground. Make sure your ladder is rated for your weight plus equipment.
• Creeper or ground pad: For under-chassis inspections. A folding mechanic's creeper ($30 to $50) or a thick kneeling pad ($15). Your back will thank you.
• Tablet or phone: Whatever you are running your inspection software on. If you are using WanderWise RV Reports, any modern iPhone or Android device works. Consider a rugged case (OtterBox Defender or similar) because you will drop it.

Advanced Equipment (Add Within Your First Year)

• Thermal imaging camera: FLIR C5 ($500) or FLIR ONE Pro ($400 smartphone attachment). Thermal imaging identifies moisture behind walls, electrical hot spots, HVAC performance issues, and insulation voids. The FLIR C5 is a standalone unit with better resolution and usability. The FLIR ONE Pro is more affordable and integrates with your phone. Either one pays for itself quickly by catching issues a visual inspection misses.
• Manometer/gas pressure tester: Dwyer 490A-1 ($80) or UEi EM150 ($60). For measuring LP gas system pressure at the regulator outlet. Column pressure should read 11 inches water column. This is a more precise and professional approach than relying solely on leak detection.
• Amp clamp: Klein CL800 ($100) or Fluke 323 if you did not already buy it. For measuring current draw on appliances, converter output, and generator loads. Especially useful for documenting A/C compressor amp draw and comparing to nameplate ratings.
• Sewer/inspection camera: DEPSTECH endoscope camera ($80 to $150) for inspecting drain lines, holding tank interiors, and tight spaces behind walls. Not essential for every inspection, but useful when you suspect hidden damage.

Total Startup Equipment Investment

Essential equipment: $800 to $1,200. Advanced equipment: $700 to $1,500 additional. Plan to invest in the essentials before your first paid inspection and add advanced tools from revenue during your first year.

Step 4: Choose Your Inspection Software

Your software choice determines your workflow efficiency and your report quality. I covered this topic in depth in our inspection software comparison, but here is the short version for someone just getting started.

You need software that gives you RV-specific inspection points out of the box (not a home inspection template you have to rebuild), works on your phone or tablet at the inspection site, functions fully offline (many inspection sites have no connectivity), generates a professional report directly from the app, and is fast enough that the software never slows down your inspection pace.

I built WanderWise RV Reports specifically because nothing else met all of those criteria when I was building my inspection practice. It includes 190+ inspection points organized by RV system, AI-powered documentation that cuts your report writing time in half, VIN scanning, offline functionality, and professional PDF report generation on your device. But whatever you choose, invest time in learning it thoroughly before your first paid inspection. Your software should feel invisible during the inspection, not like another thing you are fighting with.

Step 5: Set Your Initial Pricing

Pricing is covered extensively in our pricing guide for inspectors, but here is the quick-start version for setting your initial rates.

Starting Rate Framework

As a newly certified inspector with a technical background, your rates for 2026 should start at:

• Travel trailers (under 30 feet): $350 to $450
• Travel trailers (30+ feet) and fifth wheels: $450 to $550
• Class C motorhomes: $450 to $550
• Class A gas motorhomes: $550 to $700
• Class A diesel pushers: $700 to $1,000

Add a travel fee for inspections beyond 30 miles from your base ($0.75 to $1.25 per mile or flat zone-based fees). Do not undercut the market trying to get your first clients. Clients who hire solely on price are not the clients you want. They will complain about your findings, dispute your report, and leave bad reviews when the inspection reveals problems they do not want to hear about.

When to Raise Prices

Raise your prices after your first 25 inspections, after receiving your first 10 positive Google reviews, and every 12 months thereafter. You should be raising prices annually at minimum. Your skills improve with every inspection, and your pricing should reflect that growth.

Step 6: Build Your Referral Network

Referrals are the lifeblood of an RV inspection business. Here is how to build a referral pipeline from scratch.

RV Dealerships

Dealerships are your single most valuable referral source. Some dealers recommend independent pre-purchase inspections as a trust-building measure with buyers. Others will resist because inspections sometimes kill deals. Your approach matters.

• Visit every RV dealership within your service area. Bring your business card, a sample report (print one out), and a one-page overview of your services.
• Meet the sales manager, not just the front desk. Explain that thorough inspections actually close more deals than they kill, because they give buyers confidence to move forward.
• Position yourself as a resource, not a threat. You are not there to find reasons to kill their deals. You are there to document conditions objectively so both parties can make informed decisions.
• Follow up monthly. Drop by, say hello, leave a few more cards. Relationships take time. The dealer who ignores you in month one may send you three referrals in month six.

RV Service Centers and Mobile Technicians

Service centers encounter customers who mention they are considering a purchase or who ask for a pre-purchase evaluation. These shops do not typically want to perform inspections (it is not their core business), but they will refer to someone they trust. Build relationships with the service writers and shop managers at independent RV repair facilities in your area.

Insurance Agents and Lenders

RV insurance agents and lenders sometimes require or recommend inspections for older units. Connect with agents who specialize in RV coverage. They interact with buyers at exactly the moment when an inspection is most relevant.

Online Presence

• Google Business Profile: Set this up immediately. It is free and it puts you on the map, literally. Optimize it with photos of you working, your service area, your certifications, and detailed service descriptions. This is where most of your online leads will originate.
• Website: Keep it simple. You need a home page with your services and service area, a page showing your certifications and equipment, a sample report page (redact the client's info, but show the quality of your deliverable), and a contact or booking page. Do not overthink this. A clean, professional site with clear information beats an elaborate design.
• Social media: Facebook and YouTube are where the RV community gathers. Share helpful content: common issues by manufacturer, maintenance tips, inspection walkthroughs. Position yourself as a knowledgeable professional. Do not hard-sell your services. Let your expertise speak for itself.

Step 7: Execute Your First 10 Inspections

Your first 10 inspections are about building confidence, refining your process, and getting reviews. Here is how to approach them.

• Inspections 1 through 3: Offer to inspect friends' or family members' RVs at no charge or at a steep discount. These are practice runs where you refine your workflow, test your software, and build a comfortable pace. The goal is not revenue. The goal is arriving at your first paid inspection with a smooth, rehearsed process.
• Inspections 4 through 10: Your first paid inspections. Give yourself extra time (budget 5 to 6 hours even for a smaller unit). Over-communicate with clients: confirm the appointment, explain the process when you arrive, walk them through key findings at the end, deliver the report within 24 hours, and follow up two days later to answer questions.
• Ask for reviews: After every satisfied client, ask them to leave a Google review. Be specific: "Would you mind leaving a quick review on Google? It really helps other people find my services." Most people are happy to help if you ask directly. Those first 10 reviews build the credibility that drives future bookings.

The Timeline and Investment Summary

Here is a realistic timeline from decision to first paid inspection:

• Months 1 through 3: Complete online certification coursework. Order and receive equipment. Set up business entity, insurance, and inspection agreement. Choose and learn your inspection software.
• Month 4: Attend hands-on training. Complete certification exam. Perform practice inspections on your own RV or friends' units.
• Month 5: Launch your Google Business Profile and website. Begin dealership visits. Schedule your first paid inspections.
• Months 6 through 12: Build your inspection volume. Accumulate reviews. Refine your process. Add advanced equipment. Raise your prices after 25 inspections.

Total Startup Investment

• Certification training: $3,000 to $5,000
• Equipment (essential): $800 to $1,200
• Insurance (first year): $1,500 to $3,000
• Business setup (LLC, legal review, etc.): $500 to $1,000
• Website and marketing: $300 to $800
• Software subscription (first year): $200 to $600
• Total: $6,300 to $11,600

That is a meaningful investment, but compare it to the startup costs of almost any other skilled trade business. A mobile mechanic's tool inventory alone costs more than this entire setup. And at an average of $450 per inspection, you recoup the investment within your first 15 to 25 inspections.

The Technician's Advantage

Here is the part most guides miss: as a technician, you have a head start that most new inspectors do not. You already understand how RV systems work, how they fail, and what failure looks like. You know the difference between a cosmetic issue and a structural one. You know what 11 inches water column means without looking it up. You know what a bad bearing sounds like.

Your transition is about learning the inspection methodology (systematic, non-invasive evaluation and documentation) and the business side (marketing, client communication, pricing), not about learning the systems themselves. That background makes your ramp-up faster, your inspections more thorough, and your credibility higher from day one.

The RV inspection industry needs more qualified professionals. If you have the technical skills, the entrepreneurial drive, and the willingness to invest in doing it right, this is a field where you can build a sustainable, rewarding business doing work that genuinely helps people. Get started with the right tools and training, and build something you are proud of.