How Much Do RV Inspectors Make Money? Let’s Find Out
It was on a sun-dappled afternoon in Yosemite when I struck up a conversation with the fellow next door. Fresh off an RV inspection, he revealed he was the inspector! As the evening wore on, we got curious about the intricacies of his profession, including the question we all wondered: Just how much do RV inspectors rake in?
The income of an RV inspector can be quite diverse, with many making anywhere between $50 to $400 per inspection. Over a year, full-time RV inspectors can potentially earn between $20,000 to $50,000, based on their location, expertise, and the kind of inspections they specialize in.
Alright, let’s buckle up and traverse this financial landscape together.
Exactly How Much Does an RV Inspector Earn?
The nitty-gritty. From the data Mike shared, which aligns with national statistics:
- Entry-Level Inspectors: Those just starting off can expect about $20,000 to $25,000 annually if they’re working full-time. This equates to around $50 – $150 per inspection, considering they might be doing basic check-ups.
- Mid-Level Inspectors: With a few years of experience and perhaps a certification or two, they can look at an annual figure of $30,000 to $40,000. Their per-inspection fee would be in the ballpark of $150 – $300.
- Top-tier Inspectors: The cream of the crop, with extensive experience, multiple certifications, and possibly a specialization (like luxury RVs), could be making upwards of $50,000. They can command anywhere from $300 – $400 or even more per inspection.
What Dictates Their Paycheck: Factors in Play
- Geographical Nuances: In RV hotspots like Florida or California, inspectors might be in higher demand and thus can charge a premium. Conversely, in places where RV culture isn’t as prevalent, rates might be lower.
- Experience & Credentials: A newbie in the field might start at the lower end of the pay spectrum, but with a few years under the belt, certifications, and a robust clientele, earnings can substantially increase.
- Inspection Complexity: While a basic run-through might fetch about $50-$100, an in-depth, detailed inspection can elevate the price to $300-$400.
- Market Dynamics: In areas brimming with RV enthusiasts but starved of skilled inspectors, the potential to earn more rises substantially.
The Average RV Inspector’s Salary by States
Here is all the states ranked from highest to lowest average salary for RV inspectors:
| State | Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | Weekly Pay | Hourly Wage |
| New York | $58,554 | $4,879 | $1,126 | $28.15 |
| New Jersey | $50,591 | $4,215 | $972 | $24.32 |
| Wisconsin | $50,270 | $4,189 | $966 | $24.17 |
| Nevada | $49,844 | $4,153 | $958 | $23.96 |
| Wyoming | $49,837 | $4,153 | $958 | $23.96 |
| Massachusetts | $49,754 | $4,146 | $956 | $23.92 |
| Indiana | $49,169 | $4,097 | $945 | $23.64 |
| Arizona | $49,153 | $4,096 | $945 | $23.63 |
| New Hampshire | $49,120 | $4,093 | $944 | $23.62 |
| Pennsylvania | $48,972 | $4,081 | $941 | $23.54 |
| Oregon | $48,773 | $4,064 | $937 | $23.45 |
| Minnesota | $48,461 | $4,038 | $931 | $23.30 |
| Washington | $48,425 | $4,035 | $931 | $23.28 |
| Georgia | $48,317 | $4,026 | $929 | $23.23 |
| Hawaii | $48,123 | $4,010 | $925 | $23.14 |
| Montana | $47,156 | $3,929 | $906 | $22.67 |
| Alaska | $47,144 | $3,928 | $906 | $22.67 |
| Iowa | $46,565 | $3,880 | $895 | $22.39 |
| Rhode Island | $46,069 | $3,839 | $885 | $22.15 |
| South Dakota | $45,965 | $3,830 | $883 | $22.10 |
| North Dakota | $45,930 | $3,827 | $883 | $22.08 |
| Connecticut | $45,918 | $3,826 | $883 | $22.08 |
| New Mexico | $45,539 | $3,794 | $875 | $21.89 |
| California | $45,225 | $3,768 | $869 | $21.74 |
| Ohio | $45,144 | $3,762 | $868 | $21.70 |
| Tennessee | $44,188 | $3,682 | $849 | $21.24 |
| Illinois | $44,091 | $3,674 | $847 | $21.20 |
| Utah | $44,049 | $3,670 | $847 | $21.18 |
| Vermont | $43,297 | $3,608 | $832 | $20.82 |
| Virginia | $43,210 | $3,600 | $830 | $20.77 |
| Maryland | $43,175 | $3,597 | $830 | $20.76 |
| Mississippi | $42,565 | $3,547 | $818 | $20.46 |
| Delaware | $42,550 | $3,545 | $818 | $20.46 |
| Colorado | $42,443 | $3,536 | $816 | $20.41 |
| West Virginia | $42,198 | $3,516 | $811 | $20.29 |
| Alabama | $41,537 | $3,461 | $798 | $19.97 |
| Florida | $41,493 | $3,457 | $797 | $19.95 |
| Maine | $41,406 | $3,450 | $796 | $19.91 |
| Oklahoma | $41,053 | $3,421 | $789 | $19.74 |
| South Carolina | $40,937 | $3,411 | $787 | $19.68 |
| Kansas | $40,915 | $3,409 | $786 | $19.67 |
| Michigan | $40,600 | $3,383 | $780 | $19.52 |
| Louisiana | $40,406 | $3,367 | $777 | $19.43 |
| Missouri | $40,322 | $3,360 | $775 | $19.39 |
| Texas | $40,098 | $3,341 | $771 | $19.28 |
| Nebraska | $39,154 | $3,262 | $752 | $18.82 |
| Idaho | $38,920 | $3,243 | $748 | $18.71 |
| Kentucky | $37,723 | $3,143 | $725 | $18.14 |
| North Carolina | $37,378 | $3,114 | $718 | $17.97 |
| Arkansas | $37,070 | $3,089 | $712 | $17.82 |
The RV Inspector Role and Income
RV inspectors play a critical role in ensuring our mobile homes are up to the mark. They are responsible for:
- Safety Checks: Ensuring structural integrity, checking brakes, lights, and other safety features.
- Functionality Inspections: Testing plumbing, electrical systems, and appliances.
- Interior and Exterior Assessments: Looking for issues in the RV’s interior, exterior, underbelly, and roof.
Extra Income
Many inspectors don’t just stop at inspections. They venture into:
- Consultation: Offering advice on RV maintenance and upgrades.
- Minor Repairs: Addressing issues they discover during their inspections.
- Affiliations: Partnering with RV dealerships or manufacturers can provide a steady stream of clients.
The Roadblocks and Speed Bumps in Income
While it might seem rosy, the RV inspector path has its challenges. The job can be seasonal, especially in colder regions. Moreover, it demands unwavering attention to detail, and not every day is about inspecting a state-of-the-art, clean RV. Some days, it’s old models with years of wear and tear.
Final Reflections
RV inspectors might not be making a fortune, but for those who are passionate about RVs, the job can be both fulfilling and profitable. Their earnings vary, but with commitment, the financial rewards can be satisfying.
Curiosity Corner
- Is There A ‘prime Season’ For Rv Inspectors?
Yes, late spring to early fall is often bustling, aligning with peak RVing season.
- Do Inspectors Require Any Insurance?
It’s wise for inspectors to have liability insurance, safeguarding against potential claims arising from oversights.
- How Do Certifications Influence Earnings?
Certifications from recognized institutions can boost an inspector’s credibility, often leading to more clients and higher charges.
- How Can An RV Inspector Increase Their Earnings?
Continuous learning, gaining more certifications, offering add-on services, and maintaining a positive reputation can lead to increased income.
- Is The Job More Seasonal Or Year-Round?
Depends on the region. In warmer states, the job can be year-round. However, in colder states, there might be a seasonal surge.
- What’s The Best Part Of Being An Rv Inspector?
Apart from the earnings, the joy of ensuring safety and helping fellow RV enthusiasts can be immensely rewarding.
