Spring is calling, the clocks are changing, and Easter trips are lining up fast. If your motorhome, campervan or caravan has had a winter rest, now is the time to wake it up properly so your first outing is smooth, safe, and fun. This step by step recommissioning checklist will help you cover the essentials, spot issues early, and head off with confidence. If anything needs attention, our on-site motorhome workshop on the A52 between Skegness and Boston can sort quick fixes and upgrades before the bank holiday rush.
Start with safety: batteries, fluids, and tyres
- Batteries: Check both the starter and leisure batteries. Look for corrosion on terminals, ensure secure connections, and test voltage. Charge fully, then verify that lights, pumps, fans, and the control panel behave as expected. If the battery struggles to hold charge after a full top up, it may be time for a replacement or a health check.
- Fluids: Inspect engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windscreen wash. Top up with the correct specification and look for leaks under the vehicle once it has been running for a few minutes.
- Tyres: Check tyre pressures against the manufacturer plate and adjust for your typical loaded weight. Inspect tread depth and look for cracking or flat spots from storage. Do not forget the spare, and torque the wheel nuts after any tyre work.
Tip: If your vehicle was on hook up over winter, still test the charging system. If it was in storage without power, consider a solar maintainer for the season ahead.
Habitation and damp checks
A smart spring routine includes a basic habitation check to make sure living spaces are safe and dry. What is a habitation check? It is a structured inspection of the living area that covers gas safety, electrics, ventilation, fire detection, water systems, and damp readings. A professional check uses calibrated equipment and produces a report, but you can do your own first pass:
- Open every locker and cupboard, sniff for musty smells, and feel for soft spots around windows, rooflights, and corners.
- Inspect rooflights, vents, door frames, and awning rails for cracked sealant or gaps.
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed.
- Plug in and test 230V sockets with a small appliance, then test 12V lights and USBs.
- Turn on the heater and hot water systems to confirm ignition and steady operation.
If you see signs of water ingress or your readings are high, book a damp diagnosis promptly. Early fixes are quicker and cheaper than waiting.
Gas and appliances: test and test again
- Gas: Check the pigtail date, regulator condition, and hose clips. Turn on the gas, then apply a leak detection spray to joints and watch for bubbles. Confirm the isolation valves move freely, and always carry spares for washers and fuses.
- Cooker and hob: Ignite each burner, confirm flame strength and stability, and check the flame failsafe shuts off when you blow the flame out.
- Fridge: Run on 230V and gas separately. Check cooling performance, door seals, and vents.
- Heating and hot water: Run through full cycles. Listen for unusual noises and check that hot air or water temperatures are consistent.
If you would like a professional functional test with certification, book our team to carry out a full habitation check.
Water system sterilising after winter
- Refit drain plugs and close all taps, including the shower mixer.
- Fill the fresh tank with a food safe sterilising solution at the correct dilution.
- Pump the solution through every tap and shower until you smell the solution at each outlet, then leave it to sit as directed.
- Drain the system fully, refill with fresh water, and flush until the taste and smell are gone.
- Clean strainers and check the water pump for smooth operation. Inspect for drips at joints while the system is under pressure.
If your toilet cassette seals dried out, apply a silicone based lubricant that is suitable for sanitation systems.
Awnings, seals, and bodywork
- Awnings: Wind the awning out a short distance to inspect the fabric, arms, and end caps. Clear out debris and check the gearbox feels smooth. Lightly lubricate moving parts as specified by the manufacturer.
- Seals and trim: Walk around the vehicle. Look for lifted sealant, missing end caps, or loose trim. Pay close attention to the top rails and rooflights as these are common leak points.
- Windows and doors: Clean and inspect the rubber, adjust catches for a snug fit, and lubricate hinges and locks with the correct product.
- Exterior: Give the bodywork a wash to reveal any hairline cracks or stone chips that need sealing.
Paperwork and road legality
Before you head out, make sure your documents and dates are in order:
- MOT status and expiry date.
- Road tax and insurance, including correct usage cover.
- Breakdown cover details and phone numbers.
- Gas and electrical certificates if your site requires them.
- Weight limits and licence categories. Recheck your payload after adding bikes, awnings, or new kit.
How often should a motorhome be serviced?
As a rule of thumb, service your base vehicle every 12 months or in line with mileage intervals in the handbook. Schedule a habitation check annually as well, ideally before peak season. Regular servicing reduces breakdown risk, keeps warranties valid, and catches wear before it becomes expensive. Many owners pair the two so the vehicle and living area are covered in one visit.
What does a motorhome service include?
A typical service for the base vehicle covers engine oil and filter, cabin filter, visual checks on belts and hoses, brake inspection, fluid checks, lights, wipers, tyres, and a road test. A habitation service generally includes gas tightness testing, 230V and 12V checks, RCD and polarity tests, appliance function tests, water system inspection, damp readings, door and window operation, and a report with any advisories.
How do you maintain a caravan or motorhome for spring?
Follow the same recommissioning routine as above. Top up fluids, check tyres, recharge and test batteries, sterilise the water system, test gas and appliances, inspect awnings and seals, and confirm paperwork. Add a short shakedown trip close to home to spot snags before a longer Easter tour. If you own both, set aside time for each so nothing gets rushed.
If you prefer a professional once over, our team can handle seasonal checks, quick fixes, and upgrades in one visit. We also carry out caravan maintenance with clear pricing and fast turnaround where possible.
Handy upgrades before Easter
- Bike racks: Carry the family’s bikes securely and free up interior space.
- Solar panels: Keep leisure batteries topped up on non hook up pitches.
- Motor movers for caravans: Make hitching and pitching easier on sloping or tight plots.
- Reversing cameras and sensors: Reduce stress in car parks and at sites.
- USB and lighting upgrades: Improve everyday comfort and charging.
Ask us about fitting that suits your layout and payload.
Local trip ideas to get you rolling
Ease back into touring with short breaks near the coast. Try a weekend around Skegness or Chapel St Leonards for seaside walks and easy facilities. Head to Gibraltar Point for birdwatching and big skies, or follow the coast road up to Mablethorpe for fish and chips and beach sunsets. If you fancy a market town loop, combine Boston and Horncastle with a Wolds picnic spot. A gentle shakedown trip builds confidence and gives you a chance to fine tune packing before a longer holiday.
Quick answers to common questions
- What is a habitation check? A structured safety and condition inspection of the living area that covers gas, electrics, ventilation, water systems, appliances, and damp levels, usually with a written report and advisories.
- How often should it be done? Every 12 months, or sooner if you suspect leaks or have appliance issues.
Ready to hit the road?
A careful spring recommission saves time on site and avoids last minute headaches. If you want a trusted team to get your vehicle trip ready, book a pre trip service with Lincolnshire Motorhomes and Caravans. We are on the A52 between Skegness and Boston, and our workshop can help with servicing, damp checks, urgent fixes, and accessory fitting. Call 0800 690 6161 or email info@lincsmac.co.uk to reserve your slot before the Easter rush.
Helpful links if you are planning ahead
- If you are comparing layouts or browsing a new or used motorhome, take a look at motorhomes for sale.
- Need seasonal checks or quick fixes before a trip? Read more about caravan servicing.
- Looking to keep your base vehicle in top shape too? Our team can help with vehicle servicing.
We look forward to helping you enjoy a smooth, safe start to the season.
