APRIL 2022

''Look out for signs of water damage'

Buyers beware of post-flood caravan bargains

  Have your say
Photo: Caravanning News

POTENTIAL caravanners looking for a bargain RV after recent floods have been warned to take extra care before handing over their hard-earned cash.

Queensland's A/Commissioner for Fair Trading Anthony Crack said consumers buying vehicles following flood events needed to be very wary of cars and caravans that may have been affected by flood waters.

"Consumers buying a vehicle or caravan should exercise due diligence by having a pre-purchase inspection undertaken by a qualified mechanic to gauge the extent of any water damage before they make the purchase," he said.

While flood damaged vehicles may seem to be a bargain initially, there were some issues which could mean it will end up costing buyers further down the track.

Factors consumers should take into consideration include:

*  Insurers may refuse to offer any insurance coverage or may charge much higher premiums for a flood-affected vehicle or caravan.
*  Future repairs – even with a pre-purchase inspection some issues may arise that you are not expecting which could cost more     to repair then you had budgeted for.
*  Future value – the value of the vehicle when you are ready to on sell it may be affected.

"When you buy a second-hand vehicle, make sure you look out for signs of water damage and question the seller as to where the vehicle has been," Mr Crack advised.

"If you have any concerns, ask them specifically if the car has been affected by the floods.

“Buying from a licensed motor dealer will give you more protection because they have specific rules they must follow to sell water-damaged vehicles and caravans, including telling you if it is a statutory write-off or a repairable write-off or has previously been a repairable write-off."

Consumers thinking about buying a second-hand car or caravan privately should also do their homework by:

* Getting an independent mechanical inspection.
* Obtaining an auto electrical inspection as water may have affected electrical items.
* Checking the Written Off Vehicle Register.
* Getting a PPSR certificate.
* Getting a quote for insurance costs.

BACK TO CARAVANNING NEWS MAIN PAGE