Servicing and repairs

Getting a reasonable price for servicing and repairs should be a little easier than it has been, thanks in part to the Approved Workshop Scheme (AWS), run by the National Caravan Council in partnership with the Caravan and Motorhome Club and The Camping and Caravanning Club.

The scheme’s 570-plus members must show that all workshop staff have gained four separate training certificates connected with caravan repairs. They promise to provide written estimates for any service-related repairs that come to more than £150, and should give realistic timescales for completion.

The AWS could potentially help if you want to buy from a show, but don’t want to have to go back to the dealer you bought from there. Through the scheme, you can arrange for a local workshop to carry out all warranty-supporting repair work – although you do have to get the original dealer’s approval.

That’s not to say non-aws members won’t make such arrangements on an ad-hoc basis; speak to your dealership, and they will be able to confirm whether this is possible.

Repair work

It’s worth noting that the AWS only applies to service-related tasks. More substantial repairs, such as damp work or crash damage, are not covered.

Whatever your circumstances, and whichever dealership you purchase your caravan from, you should never skimp on servicing. If it’s required for your warranty, you might void that warranty by failing to keep up with it.

For more information about the AWS and its members, visit approvedworkshops.co.uk.