Clearing up misconceptions about the RVIA

[Ray,IN]

Some think it is a pay-to-play organization, some think it is a fraternal type organization, some think it is useless. Visit their website and browse to form an informed opinion. This is the standards and regulations page.
https://www.rvia.org/standards-regul...ansi-standards

[NXR]

Some think it is a pay-to-play organization, some think it is a fraternal type organization, some think it is useless. Visit their website and browse to form an informed opinion. This is the standards and regulations page.
https://www.rvia.org/standards-regul...ansi-standards

I think the section titled "Who we serve" tells it all. Nary a mention of the people actually buying those products.

Their supposed inspection program has to be a farce. There is no way that most if not all manufacturers are building safe and effective products. When I wrote up several instances of wiring and hydraulic chafing on a brand new unit, one we ordered but had not taken possession of, Forest River denied the warranty claim, writing that correcting the problems would be considered a product improvement and not a defect repair. With all of the debris left lying inside an RV it's a fire hazard as well as a safety hazard.

Ray

[jcussen]

Had a 95 Newell that did not have a RVIA "approval sticker". Don't know if any Newell does.

[Old-Biscuit]

The association works with federal and state lawmakers and regulators to pursue a favorable business environment for its members

IE: Lobbyists

The association also maintains an inspection program that audits the compliance of RV manufacturers

IE: Audits. Have a look see but have NO Enforcement

[egwilly]

RVIA does not exist to support owners of RV's, period.

They support the industry in DC and elsewhere. That's like saying Good Sam supports us....they do not.

[Gary RVRoamer]

Like any "industry association", it's purpose is to promote the interests of the product manufacturers and their sales distribution network, not the end-users of the products. Their only interest in the retail customers is that people keep on buying the product. They are interested in quality and standards only to the extent that it wards off government regulation that would complicate product manufacturing and distribution. They will do advertising (infomercials) that promote the industry as a whole, extolling the virtues of the products and the lifestyle that employs them. And they will lobby governments at all levels and also other industry groups for favorable treatment of their member companies.

[Ljwt330]

I find it interesting that some camp grounds that I've come across will not allow RVs that do not have RVIA certification, at least on their websites/advertising. Whether or not they actually enforce that rule is another story.

[Old-Biscuit]

Originally Posted by Ljwt330

I find it interesting that some camp grounds that I've come across will not allow RVs that do not have RVIA certification, at least on their websites/advertising. Whether or not they actually enforce that rule is another story.

In over 40+ years of camping....never have seen ANY one check for the SEAL nor have we EVER been asked about RVIA by anyone
And we have been in 1000's of CGs

[twinboat]

Originally Posted by Ljwt330

I find it interesting that some camp grounds that I've come across will not allow RVs that do not have RVIA certification, at least on their websites/advertising. Whether or not they actually enforce that rule is another story.

They do that to keep the home built, vans, bus's and converted storage trailer, RVs out.

Just like the 10 year rule. Its subject to management approval.

[MSHappyCampers]

Originally Posted by twinboat

They do that to keep the home built, vans, bus's and converted storage trailer, RVs out.

Just like the 10 year rule. Its subject to management approval.

X2! Exactly!

[jcussen]

Originally Posted by Ljwt330

I find it interesting that some camp grounds that I've come across will not allow RVs that do not have RVIA certification, at least on their websites/advertising. Whether or not they actually enforce that rule is another story.

Wonder if a campground would turn away a new $2M Newell because it does not have a RVIA sticker.

[twogypsies]

Originally Posted by jcussen

Wonder if a campground would turn away a new $2M Newell because it does not have a RVIA sticker.

They'd probably decide like they do with the 10-yr 'rule'. If the RV is 'presentable' you'd be allowed.

[egwilly]

Originally Posted by Ljwt330

I find it interesting that some camp grounds that I've come across will not allow RVs that do not have RVIA certification, at least on their websites/advertising. Whether or not they actually enforce that rule is another story.

Kinda like some of them say no formaldehyde tank chemicals are allowed in their campground. I understand this issue with some septic systems, but.....

Has anyone here had this checked on their rigs, ever?? Has anyone ever asked you about it??

[baraff]

A favorite dealer scam is to charge a line item fee for the RVIA sticker. Had that happen to me. Similar to the "Documentation Fee" when you buy a new car. Strike it from the contract and threaten to walk.