A few questions on buying a DIY camper conversion. Help please.

[GrenvilleLowe]

Hi all
Following on from my previous thread I'm still looking to purchase my first T6 camper. This time i have seen one that is good value but it is a DIY conversion. The current owner that is selling it was not the convertor. The current seller only has limited paperwork for the van. He has an invoice and M1 certificate for purchase and installation of the bed but nothing for the pop top. What documentation should i expect with the roof? And, if this is not available, what problems could not having the paperwork cause me in the future? E.G. Will i have problems with insurance or MOT? As always, everyones help would be much appreciated, or just point me to a previous thread if this has already been covered. Many many thanks.

 

[The Flying Scotsman]

I’m not sure you get any.
I never got any documents regarding the roof with my brand new conversion and have had zero problems with insurance etc.
just make sure it all works well and take it for a good test drive

 

[Salty Spuds]

You don’t need any paperwork pertaining to the conversion for the MOT. Most insurers that deal with campers won’t ask you for any either. If you’re buying private “as seen” it’s up to you to decide (or pay a 3rd party) if the van is fit for purpose. You have no recourse if you buy the van privately & then find faults.
Caveat Emptor

 

[drinfinity]

M1 tested bed certification is good, it means they didn’t go for a much cheaper not tested option. For the rest of it, it’s up to you to decide if you like it.

A professional conversion could be done by a master of their craft, or someone spending the bare minimum to make a van look like a camper. Similarly a DIY job could be an incompetent bodge, or a project which obsessed over every detail as the DIYer is the one using it.