1. Seller may seem like a nice bloke but you should always remind yourself that it's a case of "buyer beware" and check everything, and I mean everything, especially for damp (biggest problem with caravans).
2. There is no "log book" like you get with a car. What I think you mean is the CRIS Registration document. I think I am right in saying that CRIS registration is not compulsory and it's done through a company not the DVLA Swansea. The number etched on the windows should match the number on the CRIS paperwork and if the seller has had the van from new, and it's a relatively new caravan, it should be CRIS registered. If his name and address don't match the paperwork then obviously don't buy it.
3. Through CRIS you can also check to see if there is outstanding finance on the van (for a fee, don't know how much) and whether it has ever been stolen.
4. Hitch? Alko or not? Everyone has their own preference. Personally I like the Alko as it's much easier to operate i.e. taking it on and off. They are expensive to buy through. Hitchlocks are easy to fit if you have an Alko hitch with matching lock, it simply slots in over the top of the hitch and has a key to lock it into position. Others are a little more fiddly and there is normally some kind of padlock arrangement which can be difficult to fit and/or remove.
If your seller has a service history and the van is still within warranty, find out if he has had it dealer serviced as I think Bailey will allow you to transfer the remaining warranty if he has. There is also a fee for this. A careful read of any service history is essential. Has he replaced the tyres? When was it last serviced? All things to take into account. It may also reveal any problems in the history of the van.
Don't be frightened about checking for damp in all the suspect areas i.e. around all windows, anywhere there are corresponding seals on the outside (especially awning rails), under seats, in corners, i.e. everywhere you can access. Open and close all the cupboards and windows (sounds simple but these things are expensive to repair) and try all the blinds/fly screens (also expensive to replace).
If you are in any doubt at all just wak away. There are lots of vans out there.
If you do buy the van, you then have to send off the documents to CRIS with their fee to change the ownership details to your own.
Hope this is of some help...I'm no expert but buying caravans I have found to be something of a nightmare (we have viewed some which were described as "mint" which turned out to be absolute nails).
Good luck. Let us know how you get on.
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Topic: Nervous about viewing caravan,questions
