Do RV Manufacturers Require Annual Inspections? (What Owners in Colorado Need to Know)

If you own an RV, you’ve probably heard some version of this:

“If you don’t get your RV inspected every year, your warranty is void.”

Inspect what you expect

But is that actually true?

The answer is not as simple as yes or no—and misunderstanding it can cost RV owners thousands of dollars in denied warranty claims.

Let’s break down what RV manufacturers really require—and why skipping inspections can still come back to bite you.

Do RV Manufacturers Require Annual Inspections?

Most RV manufacturers fall into one of three categories:

1. Manufacturers That Require Documented Inspections

Some brands clearly state that routine inspections must be performed and documented to maintain warranty coverage.

One of the most well-known examples is Grand Design RV.

• Requires sealant inspections every 6 months

• Requires documentation of maintenance for warranty claims

• Water intrusion claims can be denied without proof

👉 What this means:If your roof leaks and you can’t prove it was inspected and maintained, your claim can be denied—even within the warranty period.

2. Manufacturers That Require Maintenance (But Not Clearly “Annual Inspections”)

This is where most RV brands fall:

• Keystone RV

• Forest River

• Jayco

• Thor Motor Coach

These companies typically state:

• You must inspect and maintain seals, roofs, and components regularly

• Damage caused by lack of maintenance is not covered

👉 Here’s the reality:They may not say “annual inspection required”…But when you file a claim, they will ask:

• Do you have inspection records?

• Do you have proof of maintenance?

No documentation = very easy claim denial

3. Manufacturers That Do NOT Require Annual Inspections

A smaller number of manufacturers have moved away from strict inspection requirements.

For example, Brinkley RV:

• Does not require yearly inspections to maintain warranty

• Offers extended structural and sealing coverage

• Focuses on improved build quality over strict maintenance rules

👉 But don’t be misled:Even without a requirement, neglect is still not covered.

The #1 Reason Warranty Claims Get Denied

It’s not always misuse.It’s not always poor workmanship.

It’s usually this:

Lack of documentation

When water damage, roof failure, or delamination occurs, manufacturers look for:

• Seal inspection history

• Maintenance records

• Proof the issue wasn’t preventable

If you can’t provide that?

👉 The claim often gets denied—regardless of brand.

Why Annual RV Inspections Still Matter (Even If Not Required)

Even if your manufacturer doesn’t require it, skipping inspections is a gamble.

Here’s what we commonly find during inspections:

• Cracked or failing roof sealant

• Soft spots starting to form

• Early water intrusion (before major damage)

• Loose or failing roof components

Catching these early can mean:

• $200–$500 repairvs.

• $5,000–$15,000 structural damage

Colorado RV Owners: Why This Matters Even More

In Colorado, your RV faces:

• Intense UV exposure

• Freeze/thaw cycles

• Snow load and moisture intrusion

These conditions accelerate seal failure, even on newer units.

Waiting “until something leaks” is usually too late.

The Smart Way to Protect Your RV (and Your Wallet)

Whether your RV is made by Grand Design RV, Keystone RV, or Brinkley RV…

The safest approach is simple:

✔ Get a professional inspection once per year✔ Document the condition of your roof and seals✔ Address small issues before they become major repairs

Don’t Wait Until Your Warranty Claim Gets Denied

By the time you see a stain on the ceiling or soft wall…

👉 The damage is already done.

An annual inspection is not just about “checking a box”—It’s about protecting your investment and avoiding massive repair bills.

Schedule Your RV Inspection Today

At Colorado RV Service, we specialize in:

• Full RV roof inspections

• Sealant evaluation and repair

• Preventative maintenance plans

• Documentation for warranty protection

📞 Call 303-525-7894🌐 Visit ColoradoRVService.com

Final Thought

You may not always be required to get an annual inspection…

But if something goes wrong, you’ll wish you had proof that you did.

Don’t leave it up to chance.