Whether you’re buying new or used caravans in Queensland, or you’re selling your current van for an upgrade, you want to ensure the vehicle is safe. A caravan roadworthy will ensure your caravan is not just compliant with the local laws and regulations but also safe for the roads.
A caravan roadworthy certificate, often seen as a stamp of approval, shows that your caravan is fit to be used on public roads and meets all the necessary safety standards. This guide will help you navigate the inspections.
The Roadworthy Essentials
Ensuring your caravan meets the caravan roadworthy and gas certificate requirements in Queensland is not just about adhering to regulations; it’s about guaranteeing safety and compliance.
Caravan Safety Certificate Essentials
For caravans tipping the scales between 750kg and 3.5 tonnes, securing a safety certificate is non-negotiable under several circumstances:
- Purchasing a used caravan: This certificate is your first step.
- Transferring registration: Coming from another state? You’ll need to ensure your caravan complies with Queensland standards.
- Reviving a lapsed registration: A safety certificate is mandatory if the registration has been inactive for over three months.
- Selling your caravan: Guarantee the next owner starts their journey on the right foot with a certified safe caravan.
A safety certificate is not required for caravans weighing less than 750kg (ATM). However, you must still complete a Vehicle Details Inspection Sheet.
Checklist for Caravan Safety Inspection
Remember that roadworthy certificates can only be issued by accredited examiners from Queensland Transport, so find a qualified mechanic and approved examiner. The following are some of the things an inspector will take note of:
- Identification compliance plate
- Lighting systems: tail, stop, clearance lights, reflectors, and indicators
- Number plate height: must be below 1.3 metres
- Tyres and spare tyres: ensure they’re in good condition, check for punctures
- Rims, floors, bearings, and inner bearing seals
- Breakaway systems and brakes: including operation, adjustment, and components like drums, discs, brake shoes, or pads
- Handbrake, suspension, safety chains
- Shock absorbers, coupling, load-rated D shackles
- Underbody and A-frame, hitch and coupling, brake components in the drum
- Jockey wheel
Gas Compliance Certificate for Caravans
A Gas Compliance Certificate becomes as crucial as a safety certificate if your caravan has a fixed gas supply system. Here’s what you need for a gas safety inspection:
- Gas in the gas bottle: Ensure appliances are operational and ready for caravan inspections Qld, with a non-expired gas bottle.
- Two-stage regulator with OPP: Essential for safe appliance operation.
- Gas pressure test point: For checking gas flow at reduced pressure.
- Gas fitter plate or gas compliance plate: Documents a licensed gas fitter’s installation history and work.
- Australian Certified Appliances: Look for AGA, QGA certification, or QLD Gas Association certification documents.
- AGA Makers Warranty: Confirms the warranty on your gas appliances.
If you’re buying, check for AGA or QGA accreditation badges or QLD Gas Association certification documentation on gas equipment.
Caravan Roadworthy Certificate Validity
Roadworthy Certificates are valid for two months or 2000 kilometres when issued by private sellers. Gas Compliance Certificates have a slightly longer validity of three months.
Around Australia
If you want to find out more about caravan roadworthy certification across Australia, follow these links:
ACT: https://www.accesscanberra.act.gov.au/
TAS: http://www.transport.tas.gov.au/
VIC: https://www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/
WA: https://www.transport.wa.gov.au/
The JAWA Advantage
Choosing a new JAWA caravan brings you plenty of benefits, particularly regarding the overall quality of your vehicle. JAWA’s dedication to the finest Australian-fitted features means you’re investing in a caravan built to exceed the standard requirements for safety and comfort.
- Unmatched quality and safety: JAWA caravans have the highest standard components and systems that meet and often surpass Queensland’s stringent roadworthiness requirements. From the robust chassis to the advanced braking systems and high-quality gas appliances, JAWA ensures every aspect of their caravans contributes to a safe and enjoyable journey.
- Avoiding unexpected costs: While the allure of a lower upfront price tag on a used caravan might be tempting, it often comes with hidden costs down the line. Unexpected repairs and upgrades to meet safety and gas compliance standards can quickly add up, making the initially attractive deal much less so.
- Focused on Australian conditions: JAWA caravans are designed with the Australian landscape in mind. Whether you’re travelling on rugged outback roads or coastal highways, these caravans are built to handle the unique challenges of the Australian environment. This ensures your caravan is not just roadworthy but also adventure-ready.
Final Thoughts
Before you hit the road, prioritise the quality and roadworthiness of your caravan. With a JAWA caravan, you can enjoy the highest standards of safety, comfort, and Australian ruggedness, ensuring you’re good to go from day one—no more unexpected costs and uncertainties of used caravans, just pure adventure with confidence and style.
What are you waiting for? Say hello to the open road with JAWA!
