Q Is a sudden increase in damp readings normal?

Due to the Covid lockdown restrictions, the first service on my 2019 Chausson was carried out in March 2020, which was 18 months after the vehicle’s first registration. At that time no issues were recorded and the moisture levels recorded were less than 15%.

Six months later, and in line with Chausson’s policy, I had to have another service carried out and the moisture level on one side increased to 45%. This, I gather, is fairly serious and requires further investigation.

Do you think this is unusual, especially as the six months were over the spring and summer season, albeit wet at times!

My real concern relates to the time Chausson and my dealer take to deal with issues. Up to now, they have been quite minor, but it’s taking several months to get any spares through.

Kevin Gosling

ADamp meter readings up to 15% are considered normal. A moisture level of 45% is indicative of a real problem and requires immediate action.

Such an increase in moisture levels can happen over a relatively short span of time and I recall my previous coachbuilt motorhome going from normal to high levels within a similar period of time. Whilst there are supply issues with spare parts across many manufacturers, I believe you have no alternative but to set in motion the process for repairs to avoid further deterioration.

Indeed, if there is any chance of the work being undertaken under warranty, then any delay may cause the manufacturer to argue against full responsibility for repairs on the basis that the damage will have been aggravated by the delay.

It is worth noting that such repairs can take a considerable time on the basis that, following dismantling to get to the source of the problem and then repairing it, a length of time will also be needed to fully dry out the motorhome before putting things back.

Barry Norris