Buying safely

Most camper deals go through perfectly. This page exists for the small minority that don’t. Five minutes here can save you thousands.

Before you travel

Speak on the phone first — vague answers to simple questions are a red flag.
Ask for the VRM (registration) and check it matches the advert's year, model and colour.
Reverse-image-search the photos. Stolen ad photos usually trace back to other listings.
Be suspicious of prices well below market — check similar vans on Dubsy first.

Documents to check in person

V5C logbook: the seller's name and address should match the registered keeper.
MOT history: free to check online at gov.uk — gaps and mileage jumps matter.
Service history: VW campers thrive on evidence of care, especially cambelt changes.
Check the VIN on the van matches the V5C. On T4/T5/T6 look under the windscreen and floor.

The viewing

View in daylight. Damp is the camper killer — smell for it, check under cushions and behind units.
Look for water ingress around the pop-top seals, window rubbers and wheel arches.
Start it from cold. Watch for smoke, listen for timing-chain rattle on 2.0 TDI engines.
Bring a friend for a second opinion — and never view alone at a remote location.

Payments and scams

Never pay a deposit before seeing the van in person.
Avoid 'shipping agent' stories — a classic overseas scam format.
Pay by bank transfer only after you're happy, and get a written receipt.
If it feels wrong, walk away. No van is worth the risk.

Vehicle history checks (write-offs, outstanding finance, stolen registers) are strongly recommended before any purchase — several reputable providers offer them for a small fee. Dubsy will surface history-check prompts at the right moments as the platform matures.