Where damp hides
- Corners and seams, where panels meet.
- Around windows, roof lights and the door.
- Under and around seating and the bed base.
- The floor, especially near the door and under mats: press for soft spots.
- Overcab areas on coachbuilt motorhomes.
Reading a damp meter
Low readings (roughly under 15 percent) are normal. Readings climbing above about 25 percent point to active damp and expensive repairs. A history check cannot detect damp, so this is one to inspect in person.
Why it matters so much
Serious damp can cost thousands to put right and is a common reason older motorhomes are scrapped. If in doubt, walk away or get a professional habitation inspection first.
Check a motorhome before you buy
Enter the registration for a free summary. Full history check £4.99.
Added 15 September 2026. Where to put the meter differs by converter. Owner reports by model, with each maker's warranty terms and DVSA recalls, are on Auto-Trail, Swift, Bailey, Hymer and Elddis. To get a professional reading, find a habitation check near you. More in the motorhome and caravan FAQ.