Just like your car , your caravan or motorhome should be regularly serviced to the maker's specification by a qualified engineer. In addition, you should make a visual safety check of the tyres, breakaway cable, hitch, damper, lights and general bodywork before setting off on a journey.

At the beginning of the season

• Check the tyres (including the spare) for pressure and the cracking of the sidewalls
• Check the handbrake moves freely and operates correctly
• Replace any furnishings or equipment you may have taken out before winter storing
• Check all the services work, this includes the electric, gas, water and the condition of your leisure battery
• Water filter, if your caravan has a water filter, cartridge, replace it.
• Pour sterilising fluid through all the pipes and drains
• Check the 12S and 12N connectors are working and are not damaged, preferably by plugging into the car.
• Give the whole inside a thorough clean to remove the cobwebs
• Clean the caravan inside and outside, especially the awning channel and around the roof fittings.
• Book the caravan into your local dealership or service engineer for a service

Routine maintenance

• Check all road lights regularly, tail lights, indicators, stop and hazard lights
• Clean out your caravan or motorhome after returning from a holiday
• Do not leave food or drink in the vehicle, as this may attract vermin.
• Wash the outside whenever it begins to look dirty - this will also protect the paintwork
• Leave all water tanks and onboard toilets empty with taps and valves open
• Remove all valuables when the vehicle is not in use

Servicing

It is essential that safety items like the brakes are adjusted correctly, and that road lights work perfectly. Checks for damp or leakage in the bodywork are important, damp testers are cheap to buy and can save you from possible future problems. Appliances like heaters and the refrigerator need careful inspection too. Many of these jobs are best left to experts who will keep your caravan in tip top and above all safe condition. Have your caravan serviced at least once a year.

The end of the season

• Make sure that wherever it will be stored for the winter it will be safe, consider putting your caravan into secure storage
• Some people like to remove the wheels and stand the van on axle stands. This is a good theft deterrent too, but do make sure that you use axle stands, do not use the corner steadies to support the weight of the caravan
• Fit some kind of wheel clamp or locking device such as a hitch lock to discourage thieves
• Remove the battery and keep in a safe place, keeping it charged up to avoid damage
• Spray the 12S and 12N plugs with a moisture repellent such as WD 40
• Remove gas cylinders and store them in a cool, well-ventilated place. Cover the exposed end of the gas pipe to keep it clean and unobstructed
• Wrap a loose-fitting piece of plastic around the coupling head
• Seal all water inlets or outlets to keep insects and small animals out
• Drain down all pipes and the water heater. Leave kitchen and washroom taps open, including the shower
• Empty the flushing water from the toilet
• Leave the fridge door open to allow air to circulate.
Remove seat cushions, or stand them on end or away from the sidewalls to allow air to flow around them

Insurance