Habitation Observation Report

A habitation check is a comprehensive inspection that covers various aspects of a vehicle dwelling. It is a crucial step to ensure the safety and longevity of the conversion.

Here’s a summary of what it entails:

Electric System: Checking for any electrical faults or issues.
Gas System: Ensuring the gas system is functioning properly and safely.
Leisure Battery: Inspecting the condition and performance of the leisure battery.
Ventilation: Verifying that the ventilation system is adequate and working correctly.
Water System: Checking the water system for any leaks or issues.
Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Alarm: Testing these alarms to ensure they are operational and effective.
Fire Extinguishers: Checking that fire extinguishers are in place and in good working order.
Windows and Doors: Inspecting windows and doors for any damages or issues that might affect security or insulation.
Problem Areas: Identifying and assessing areas prone to problems like dampness.

Upon completion, you receive a detailed report with a comments section that identifies any actions required. Regular habitation checks are important for safety reasons and early identification of potential problems, which can save time and money in the long run. It’s a proactive measure to maintain the quality and safety of your living space.

Using specialist equipment to check for dampness allows for early detection of potential issues. This proactive measure can prevent minor problems from escalating into major, costly repairs.

The checks covered by your expert technician:

Electric System

Inside and outside lights will be checked for faults. Sockets and Appliances: These will be checked for any faults. They will be checked to ensure they are correct for the appliances in the vehicle. Residual Current Device: An investigation will be conducted to ensure they trip within a set time.

Water

The water system is tested, both the fresh water and wastewater system are tested for leaks and blockages. The check also includes filters, taps, showers, pumps and toilets.

Gas

We incorporate a comprehensive assessment of the gas systems appliance operation, system leakage, ventilation and potentially dangerous issues. A gas manometer will be used to check for leaks in the gas system. An inspection of the oven, fridge, heating system and water heater will be covered to make sure they are operational and safe.

Appliance vents are checked to ensure they are clear and appliances turned-off at the gas isolator taps. If the flame-failure device cuts-in, it will pass the test. Next, all gas appliances are turned back on, and a flue gas analyser runs for a minimum of 15 minutes while all doors and windows are closed for a CO room test.

Ventilation

We thoroughly check vents to ensure that they are free from obstructions and allow free air flow.

Damp

An inspection for damp is carried out to check levels are below what is expected for a healthy environment.

0-15% – no cause for concern.

15-20% – make a note, check again and if still in this range, get a professional check done.

20-25% – get a professional check done as soon as possible.

25-30% – remedial action required, motorhome may already show signs of damp or water ingress.

Over 30% – severe structural damage may be occurring, take immediate action.

Fire and safety

We incorporate an assessment of the smoke, carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers and fire blankets. Dates and housing units are inspected ensure that it is secure.

Underbody and Body Work

We check all corner steadies and folding steps for operation and stability, along with checking the condition and security of all underslung tanks and pipes. Observations will be made of the windows, doors, pop top roof, and attachments for operation and security. The outer body panels and roof will be given a visual check for signs of damage.

Extra Tests

Carbon monoxide alarm expiry date

Smoke alarm expiry date

Fire extinguisher expiry date

Gas hose expiry date

Voltage residual current device test trip time