When the storm clouds clear and the sun peeks through, it’s time to assess the impact on your caravan. Essential checks for your caravan after a storm are crucial to ensure your safety and comfort on the road. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or newer to caravanning, doing these checks after every storm can save you from unexpected troubles. Storms can bring heavy rain, strong winds, lightning and hail, all of which can affect your caravan. So, what should you look for after a storm?
1. Inspecting the Exterior: Your First Line of Defense
The exterior of your caravan often bears the brunt of a storm. Start by examining the roof for any signs of damage. Look for dents, hail damage, cracks or loose panels. Pay special attention to the seals around windows, hatches and doors, as these can be vulnerable to water ingress. If you notice any issues, it’s wise to address them promptly to prevent further damage.
Next, check the awning. A storm can easily tear or dislodge it, so ensure it’s intact and properly secured.
Don’t forget the undercarriage; debris can get lodged underneath, potentially causing problems down the road. Ever found a branch stuck under there? It’s more common than you’d think!
2. Electrical System: Ensuring Everything’s in Working Order
Storms can wreak havoc on your caravan’s solar panels and electrical system. An easy check is to turn everything on to make sure it is working. Test all lights, both interior and exterior to ensure they’re functioning correctly.
Solar panels, if you have them, should also be inspected. Clean off any debris and check for cracks or damage.
Check your battery management system, inverters etc… are working properly.
Test all appliances to ensure they’re working correctly. This includes the stove, refrigerator, power points and hot water system. A storm can sometimes cause power surges that affect these systems, so it’s important to check they have not been damaged.
3. Check for Water Leaks
Once you’ve tackled the exterior and electrical systems, it’s time to focus on the interior. Check for any signs of water ingress, such as damp spots or mold. Pay attention to the corners, around windows and doors, the ceiling and around hatches, vents and air conditioners, as these are common areas for leaks to occur.
Documentation and Insurance: Be Prepared for the Unexpected
After conducting your checks, it’s wise to document any damage with photos and notes. This information will be useful if you need to make an insurance claim.
Stay Safe and Enjoy the Journey
By performing these essential checks for your caravan after a storm, you’re not only ensuring your safety but also prolonging the life of your caravan.
At Bold Trailer And Caravan Repair Centre, we understand the importance of quality service and peace of mind. If you need professional assistance or have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
As a licensed caravan repairer, we do repairs both directly for our customers and also insurance repairs. As a licensed and independent insurance repairer, we do repairs for all Australian insurance companies.
Visit Bold Trailer And Caravan Repair Centre to learn more about how we can help keep your adventures on track.
