Do I need to have the LPG system in a motorhome or caravan inspected?
Short and to the point: yes, from June 2024, anyone with a motor caravan or caravan equipped with an LPG system must have the system inspected every two years. In April 2022, the requirement for LPG inspections in motor caravans was removed from the roadworthiness directive.
With the inclusion of the new “Section 60 LPG systems for recreational use” in the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO), the legal situation has now been clarified. The gas inspection is thus independent of the main inspection and is required before the initial commissioning, before recommissioning after mandatory modifications, and generally every two years. If no gas inspection has yet been carried out for your motor caravan or caravan, the owner can have it done retroactively by 19 June 2025. Those who miss this deadline must expect a penalty – see the final paragraph.
Why is there a new regulation?
The gas inspection ensures the safe operation of LPG systems and is necessary for the safe use of LPG for heating, cooling and cooking in motor caravans or caravans, to prevent accidents.
To be able to cook safely in a motor caravan on a permanent basis, a gas inspection of the LPG system is required.
How is the gas inspection carried out and who performs it?
A certified expert in accordance with G 607 performs the gas inspection. This person checks the LPG system and its components in the caravan or motor caravan for proper functioning. The inspection is based on the DVGW code of practice G 607, which, among other things, specifies the requirements for the system (and its inspection) and the intervals that must be observed.
The functioning of the gas appliances and the tightness of the entire gas system must be checked. The expert also inspects the condition of the technical components such as regulators and hoses. These parts are also subject to mandatory replacement after a maximum of eight to ten years.
After successfully passing the gas inspection, the vehicle is issued a new inspection sticker, and the expert records the result in the yellow inspection booklet. This certifies to the vehicle owner that the LPG system is in perfect technical condition.
The results of the gas inspection are recorded by the G 607 expert in the yellow inspection booklet.
Where can I have a caravan or motor caravan inspected?
The gas inspection for motor caravans or caravans can generally be carried out by any G 607-certified expert.
There are independent experts who, for example, visit campsites, as well as experts at car dealerships or camping retailers with an affiliated workshop. You can also find experts at inspection centres such as DEKRA or TÜV. Below we have provided two links to help you find an inspector near you:
How much does the gas inspection cost?
First of all: the cost of an inspection can vary and is not uniformly regulated. Based on our research, the inspection itself typically costs around 50 to 70 euros and takes roughly 20 to 45 minutes.
Potential repairs, adjustments or newly required components are of course not included in this price.
What happens if I don’t have my vehicle inspected?
Anyone who ignores the new inspection deadline and gets caught must expect fines ranging from 15 to 60 euros. With the inclusion of Section 60 in the StVZO, failure to comply now constitutes an administrative offence and is accordingly subject to a monetary penalty.
Anyone who disregards the new regulation must expect to be fined by the police.
FAQ – Inspection of the LPG system of a motor caravan or caravan
When must the LPG system in a motorhome or caravan be inspected?
As of June 2024, an inspection according to DVGW Code of Practice G 607 is mandatory every two years – independent of the general inspection.
Can I still catch up on the first inspection?
Yes. For vehicles without a previous inspection record, the first check may be carried out by 19 June 2025 at the latest.
Who is authorised to carry out the gas inspection – and what does it include?
A qualified person (G 607 expert) inspects for leaks, checks appliance function, regulators and hoses. The results are documented in the yellow inspection record, and an inspection label is issued.
What are the typical costs of a gas inspection?
Usual costs range between €50 and €70, with the inspection typically taking 20 to 45 minutes if no repairs are needed.
What are the deadlines for replacing regulators and hoses?
Gas pressure regulators, changeover devices and hoses must be replaced no later than 10 years after their manufacturing date – regardless of the inspection.
What are the consequences of missing the inspection?
Failure to comply with Section 60 of the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO) may result in fines ranging from €15 to €60.
