Condition Report

A documented inspection of the RV's pre-rental condition, noting existing damage. Critical for dispute resolution at return.

Also called: condition report, inspection report, pickup checklist, damage inspection

A condition report is a documented inspection of the RV’s pre-rental condition, noting existing damage. The report serves as evidence at return — anything not on the report is considered renter responsibility.

What a complete condition report covers

  • Exterior body — scratches, dings, paint damage by panel
  • Tires — tread condition, sidewall damage, age/manufacturing date
  • Roof — visible from the top (some companies provide ladder access)
  • Awning — fabric condition, hardware
  • Windshield and windows — cracks, chips, seal condition
  • Interior — upholstery wear, stains, broken trim
  • Appliances — confirmed working state
  • Kitchen kit and bedding inventory

The renter’s parallel documentation

Do this independently of the official report:

  1. Walk around the rig and photograph every exterior panel at pickup. Date-stamped phone photos resolve disputes faster than any rental document.
  2. Photograph the interior — every cushion, the fridge interior, all cabinets open.
  3. Note odometer and fuel level in your phone notes.
  4. Photograph the propane gauge.
  5. Test every appliance during the walkthrough; note anything not working.

Common dispute scenarios

  • “You returned with this damage” — your photos prove it was already there
  • “You used more propane than you started with” — your photo of the gauge proves the level
  • “The interior was dirty” — your photos document the actual condition
  • “You left it with fewer miles than allowed” — your odometer photo confirms

What to do if you find damage during the trip

  1. Photograph the damage immediately
  2. Document the circumstances (date, location, what happened)
  3. Call the rental company within 24 hours if it’s significant
  4. Get an estimate at a reputable shop if road-side repair is feasible
  5. Keep all receipts

Return-day strategy

  1. Refill propane to the level shown at pickup (or pay the surcharge)
  2. Refuel to required level (typically full, sometimes 1/4 tank for some rentals)
  3. Empty waste tanks at a dump station before return
  4. Clean the interior to the level you received it
  5. Walk through the condition report with the return agent
  6. Photograph everything again at return — even if nothing’s wrong

Sign carefully at return

Don’t sign anything you don’t agree with. If the agent claims new damage you don’t see, take photos and dispute in writing. Most rental companies allow 48 hours after return for written dispute filing.