RV care and record keeping, in readable text.

FREE PRINTABLE FIELD GUIDE

The Complete RV Care

& Record-Keeping Guide

A practical four-season system for safer trips, better maintenance records, organized

ownership and a resale-ready RV.

PRE-TRIP

SEASONAL

ANNUAL

PRINTABLE LOGS

A FREE RESOURCE FROM RV COMMAND CENTER PRO

Your RV. Your records. One place.

START HERE

Make this guide yours.

A simple system beats scattered notes.

The goal is not perfect paperwork. It is knowing what was done, what comes next

and where the proof lives.

YOUR RV PROFILE

Fill this in once and update it when equipment changes.

OWNER

RV NICKNAME

YEAR / MAKE / MODEL

VIN

TIRE SIZE / LOAD RANGE

GVWR / CARGO CAPACITY

THE 4-PART ROUTINE

1

Inspect

Use the pre-trip and seasonal pages.

Record

Date, mileage, hours, vendor and cost.

3

Attach proof

Keep receipts, photos and reports together.

4

Set the next date

Schedule the next check before closing the record.

RECORD WHAT MATTERS

Service date and odometer or generator hours

What was inspected, adjusted, repaired or replaced

Vendor, technician and total cost

Part numbers, serial numbers and warranty details

Receipt, invoice, photo or inspection report

Next due date, mileage or operating-hour trigger

IMPORTANT: YOUR MANUALS WIN

Use this guide as an organizing framework. Maintenance intervals and procedures vary by RV, chassis, axle, tire, appliance and

component. Always follow the applicable manufacturer instructions, safety notices and qualified-service recommendations.

A cared-for RV is easier to enjoy - and easier to explain.

BEFORE EVERY TOW OR DRIVE

The departure checklist

Slow down. Walk around. Verify twice.

Tow vehicle, hitch and running gear

READY TO ROLL

Confirm hitch jaws are fully engaged around the kingpin and

perform a pull test.

Verify hitch, pin box, mounting hardware and

safety/breakaway connections.

Test trailer brakes, brake controller and breakaway switch

operation.

Check cold tire pressure against the RV placard, tire/load

guidance and manuals.

Inspect tread, sidewalls, valve stems, wheel condition and

visible fasteners.

Verify lug-nut torque according to the wheel or RV

manufacturer's schedule.

Confirm landing gear and stabilizers are fully retracted and

secured.

Check truck and trailer lights, turn signals, brake lights and

clearance lamps.

Exterior, utilities and storage

CLOSE, LOCK, SECURE

Retract awnings, slide-outs, antennas, steps and exterior

accessories.

Disconnect shore power, fresh water, sewer, cable and

campground hookups.

Close and secure windows, roof vents, entry door and

baggage compartments.

Confirm propane cylinders and battery boxes are secured and

ventilated.

Look underneath for leaks, hanging wires, loose panels or

unusual debris.

Verify spare tire, ladder, bikes, grills and cargo are firmly

secured.

Check mirrors, rear camera and all required towing

equipment.

Confirm loaded weight remains within RV, axle, tire and

tow-vehicle ratings.

Interior and life safety

INSIDE THE RV

Test smoke, carbon-monoxide and LP-gas alarms.

Confirm fire extinguishers are accessible and indicate ready.

Turn off or secure appliances as required by their manuals.

Latch refrigerator, cabinets, drawers, shower door and room

dividers.

Secure televisions, countertop items and loose belongings.

Confirm everyone knows the emergency exits and keeps them

clear.

Place pets safely and verify travel documents, medication and

emergency supplies.

THE FINAL 10-MINUTE CIRCLE

Walk it one more time.

Start at the hitch and move in one direction around the

entire rig. Touch each critical item as you verify it. Then stop

where you began and check the hitch again.

Hitch and breakaway

Tires, wheels and wheel wells

Compartments, utilities and steps

Awnings, slides, roof accessories and cargo

Lights, mirrors, camera and route clearance

IF SOMETHING LOOKS WRONG, STOP AND CHECK IT.

AT THE CAMPGROUND AND BACK HOME

Arrival, departure & return

Protect the RV between travel days.

ARRIVING AT THE CAMPSITE

Before extending slides or connecting utilities.

Survey overhead branches, posts, utilities, slope, soft ground

and slide clearance.

Position, level and chock the RV before unhitching.

Use suitable pads under landing gear and stabilizers as

conditions require.

Confirm electrical pedestal condition before connecting; use

appropriate protection.

Use a potable-water hose and pressure regulator where

needed.

Route sewer equipment safely and keep potable-water

equipment separate.

Check for leaks after water, waste and propane systems are

placed in service.

BEFORE LEAVING THE SITE

Make the site look better than you found it.

Inspect roof and slide tops for branches, debris, water or ice

before retracting.

Close valves, drain hoses as appropriate and cap all utility

connections.

Confirm awning fabric is dry enough for storage or note a

drying task for home.

Check the campsite for tools, mats, blocks, chocks, cords and

trash.

Recheck tire pressure and visible condition before the return

trip.

Complete the final circle from the departure checklist.

THE AFTER-TRIP RESET

A short reset prevents small problems from becoming forgotten problems.

Record ending mileage, generator hours and trip expenses.

Log any warning lights, handling changes, leaks, odors or unusual

noises.

Clean and dry water, sewer and outdoor-living equipment before

storage.

Inspect tires and wheel areas for damage picked up on the trip.

Check the roof and exterior after severe weather or low-clearance

travel.

Restock first aid, fuses, sealants, filters and frequently used

supplies.

Save campground, fuel, repair and upgrade receipts.

Attach photos to new damage, repairs, upgrades or valuable

purchases.

Set the next service date for anything completed during the trip.

Back up your RV records before long-term storage or major travel.

STOP-TRAVEL RED FLAGS

Do not continue merely because the campsite is reserved or home is close. Stop and investigate active leaks, burning smells, hot

wheel hubs, damaged tires, brake concerns, loose suspension parts, sparking connections, propane odor, structural movement or

anything that changes the RV's safe operation.

SUGGESTED PLANNING FRAMEWORK

Your maintenance rhythm

Adjust every interval to your manuals and use.

Think in layers: quick checks often, system care seasonally and deeper inspections by calendar,

mileage, age or operating hours.

EVERY TRIP

Tires and wheels; hitch and breakaway; brakes and lights; leaks; exterior closures; safety alarms; cargo and weight;

utility disconnection; final walk-around.

MONTHLY

Smoke, CO and LP alarms; extinguisher condition; battery and charging observations; visible roof/seal changes; tire

condition and pressure; generator exercise when applicable.

EVERY 3 MONTHS

Battery terminals/electrolyte as applicable; slide and door seals; drains and traps; GFCI test; storage-compartment

moisture; pest entry points; emergency supplies.

EVERY 6 MONTHS

Roof and seal inspection; fresh-water sanitation as directed; waste valves and seals; awning and topper condition;

wheel and suspension visual inspection; water-system leak check.

ANNUALLY

Wheel bearings and brakes when specified; suspension/hitch; furnace and LP system; water heater; air conditioners;

refrigerator; landing gear; shore-power and 12-volt systems; professional safety inspection.

AGE / MILES / HOURS

Tires, batteries, brake parts, bearings, generator service, filters, anodes and other wear items. Track both time and

use because either limit may arrive first.

THE BEST NEXT-DUE DATE IS THE ONE YOU ACTUALLY SET

When service is completed, record the new baseline immediately. For dual-trigger work, such as 12 months or 12,000 miles, record both

and treat the first reached limit as the planning trigger.

DETAILED SYSTEM CHECKLIST

Exterior & running gear

Water entry and road forces reward early attention.

ROOF, SEAMS & EXTERIOR

Inspect membrane or roof surface, front/rear caps and edge

rails.

Check vents, skylights, antennas, ladder mounts and appliance

openings.

Examine windows, doors, lights, utility ports and compartment

seals.

Use only compatible cleaners and sealants approved for the

surfaces.

Record photos before and after repairs; investigate staining or

softness.

TIRES & WHEELS

Check cold inflation using the RV placard, load information and

manuals.

Inspect tread, sidewalls, valve stems, wheels and the spare.

Record DOT date codes and tire installation dates.

Watch for uneven wear that may indicate pressure, balance or

alignment issues.

Recheck wheel torque on the schedule required after wheel

removal or service.

BEARINGS, BRAKES & SUSPENSION

Service bearings and seals according to axle instructions and

use.

Inspect brake linings, magnets, drums/rotors, wiring and

breakaway operation.

Check springs, hangers, equalizers, wet bolts, U-bolts and

shocks.

Look for abnormal tire clearance, leaning, movement or metal

contact.

Record measurements and replaced parts instead of writing only

'checked.'

HITCH, SLIDES & LEVELING

Inspect hitch jaws, pivots, rails, pin box and mounting hardware.

Follow lubrication guidance for the specific hitch and slide

system.

Check slide seals, toppers, rollers, racks, cables or hydraulic

components.

Inspect landing gear and stabilizers for leaks, damage and

smooth travel.

Keep manual-retraction and emergency procedures accessible.

The photo habit

Take the same four exterior photos at least once a year: front, rear, curb side and road side. Add close-ups of the roof, tire date

codes, hitch, suspension and any sealant repairs. Consistent photos make changes easier to spot and create useful ownership

documentation.

PHOTO DATE: ____________________

ODOMETER: ____________________

WEATHER: __________

Tip: photograph identifying labels before they fade or become difficult to access.

DETAILED SYSTEM CHECKLIST

Life safety, LP & electrical

Small RV spaces can change conditions quickly.

4,200 reported RV fires per year

Estimated annual average reported to U.S. fire departments, 2018-2020. Source: U.S. Fire Administration.

ALARMS, EXTINGUISHERS & ESCAPE

Test smoke, carbon-monoxide and LP-gas alarms monthly.

Replace alarms and batteries according to device markings and

instructions.

Check extinguisher gauge, pin, hose/nozzle, mounting and

accessibility.

Keep the entry and emergency exits clear and confirm they

open easily.

Practice an escape plan with everyone who travels or sleeps in

the RV.

Keep cooking attended and combustible items away from heat

sources.

Never ignore an alarm, propane odor, exhaust smell or

unexplained headache.

PROPANE & COMBUSTION

Inspect visible propane cylinders, mounts, regulators and

flexible lines.

Keep cylinder compartments ventilated and free of unrelated

storage.

Have leaks, regulator concerns and appliance flame problems

evaluated properly.

Keep generator exhaust pointed away and downwind from the

RV and neighbors.

Follow appliance ventilation and clearance requirements.

Have a trained technician perform periodic LP and

combustion-system inspections.

Turn systems off when required for fueling, storage, ferries or

local rules.

120-VOLT SHORE POWER

Inspect cord, plug, adapters, inlet and pedestal for damage or

overheating.

Use properly rated equipment and electrical-management

protection.

Test GFCI protection and investigate repeated breaker trips.

Avoid overloaded receptacles and unapproved household

extension cords.

Disconnect power before service and use qualified help for

unsafe conditions.

12-VOLT, BATTERIES & GENERATOR

Inspect battery security, terminals, cables, ventilation and

electrolyte if applicable.

Verify charging voltage and converter/inverter settings match

the battery type.

Protect positive terminals and keep sparks or flames away

from batteries.

Track generator service by both calendar and operating hours.

Exercise and load the generator only as directed; inspect

exhaust before use.

Safety reference: U.S. Fire Administration, Recreational Vehicle Fire Safety, usfa.fema.gov/prevention/vehicle-fires/recreational-vehicles/

DETAILED SYSTEM CHECKLIST

Water, waste & comfort systems

Plumbing, climate and appliances.

FRESH WATER & PLUMBING

Inspect tank, pump, wet bay, fittings, drains and accessible lines

for leaks.

Use drinking-water-safe hoses and keep hose ends clean and

capped.

Use a pressure regulator when the RV or campground

conditions require it.

Sanitize tank and lines using the RV or plumbing-system

instructions.

Service filters, pump strainers and winterization valves as

equipped.

Investigate pump cycling when no fixture is open.

WATER HEATER & WASTE SYSTEM

Turn off heat sources and relieve pressure before water-heater

service.

Flush sediment and inspect anode, burner or electric

components as equipped.

Inspect termination fittings, tank sensors, vents, gate valves and

seals.

Store sewer equipment apart from potable-water equipment.

Use compatible treatments and never mix chemicals unless

explicitly allowed.

Record freeze protection and recommissioning dates.

AIR CONDITIONING & FURNACE

Clean or replace return-air filters on the required schedule.

Inspect rooftop shrouds, seals, coils and condensate drainage.

Record temperature split, unusual noise, odor or short cycling.

Keep furnace intake/exhaust clear and service burner/ignition

properly.

Have LP pressure, leaks and combustion performance checked

by qualified service.

REFRIGERATOR & OTHER APPLIANCES

Keep required exterior vents and interior airflow paths clear.

Inspect door seals, latches and travel restraints.

Service burner, flue and controls as directed for absorption

refrigerators.

Track washer/dryer, microwave, range, fireplace and accessory

manuals.

Stop using equipment that overheats, sparks, leaks fuel or

behaves abnormally.

Season change checklist

Freeze protection completed and dated

Water heater bypass/anode status recorded

Batteries charged and storage plan set

Rodent/pest entry points inspected

Roof, seals and drainage checked

Tire storage pressure/condition checked

Recommissioning leak test completed

Emergency supplies and alarms tested

OWNERSHIP DOCUMENTATION

Records that earn their keep

Useful for service, planning, claims and resale.

A receipt alone says what you bought. A good record explains what happened, what was done

and where the supporting proof can be found.

FOR EVERY SERVICE EVENT

Date, mileage and generator hours

Problem, symptom or scheduled task

Inspection findings and completed work

Parts, quantities and identifying numbers

Vendor or technician and total cost

Receipt, invoice, report and photos

Warranty coverage and next due trigger

YOUR DOCUMENT VAULT

Title, registration and purchase documents

Insurance policy and contact information

Owner, chassis, axle and appliance manuals

Warranty documents and service bulletins

Receipts for upgrades and major equipment

Inspection, weight and alignment reports

Backup copies stored away from the RV

CLAIM-TIME SUPPORT PACK

Current inventory with values and locations

Wide and detailed photos of the RV and contents

Serial/model numbers for valuable equipment

Receipts, appraisals and upgrade documentation

Maintenance and repair history relevant to the loss

Policy, claim contact and incident notes

RESALE-READY SUPPORT PACK

Organized maintenance chronology

Major repair and upgrade receipts

Tire, battery and appliance dates

Included-equipment inventory

Manuals, keys, remotes and warranty status

Honest notes about open or upcoming work

Documentation is evidence - not a guarantee.

Organized records may help you explain ownership, care, equipment and costs, but they do not determine insurance coverage,

reimbursement, claim approval or resale price. Review your policy, keep off-site backups and seek appropriate professional guidance

when needed.

PRINTABLE WORKSHEET

Maintenance & repair log

One line per completed service event.

RV

YEAR

STARTING MILEAGE

DATE

SYSTEM

WORK PERFORMED

VENDOR

MILES / HRS

COST

NEXT DUE

FOLLOW-UP NOTES / PART NUMBERS / DOCUMENT LOCATIONS

PAGE TOTAL: $ ____________________

PRINTABLE WORKSHEET

RV inventory snapshot

Document the equipment that travels with you.

RV

INVENTORY DATE

ITEM

CATEGORY

LOCATION

MODEL / SERIAL

QTY

VALUE

DOCUMENTATION CHECK

Wide photos taken

Serial/model labels photographed

Receipts or value support saved

Backup stored away from RV

TOTAL DOCUMENTED VALUE: $ ____________________

PRINTABLE WORKSHEET

Plan the year. Keep the story.

Write one or two priority tasks in each month. Add exact dates to your maintenance tracker.

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

RV COMMAND CENTER PRO

Give every RV record a dependable home.

Maintenance, expenses, trips, inventory, documents and checklists.

Windows, Android, iPhone and iPad. One-time purchase. No subscription.

One household: 2 Windows + 2 Android + 2 Apple devices.

iPhone and iPad share the two Apple slots.

72 MB encrypted backup + separate 72 MB sync file allowance.

Working records stay on your devices. Sync is manual.

SCAN TO LEARN MORE

SAFETY REFERENCES & FURTHER READING

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration - TireWise: tire maintenance, inflation, aging and labeling. nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/tires

U.S. Fire Administration - Recreational Vehicle Fire Safety: alarms, propane, generators, extinguishers and escape planning. usfa.fema.gov/prevention/vehicle-fires/recreational-vehicles/

Always consult the owner manuals and safety notices for your RV, tow vehicle, chassis, tires, axles, hitch, appliances and installed components.

This guide is an organizational resource and general checklist. It is not a substitute for manufacturer instructions, inspection by a qualified professional, insurance advice or a determination that an RV

is safe to operate.