Problems with Elddis Caravans

Elddis caravans, popular in the caravaning community, have not been without their fair share of concerns. Users from various forums have brought forth numerous issues, especially surrounding water ingress and leaks. In this article, we’ll explore these issues and the possible solutions.

The Leakage Issue

One Elddis Super Sirocco 2014 owner reported problems of rainwater seeping in, even after applying sealant around the top window. A crack in the plastic surround was suggested as the likely culprit. Another owner of the Omega model experienced high damp levels around the Heki due to a similar crack. This crack was initially fixed under warranty, but it re-emerged six years later. The solution often involves replacing the surround, which sometimes can take months.

Identifying the Problem

For those suspecting a leakage issue, it is advised to check for hairline cracks on the front panel across the top of the roof. These cracks can sometimes be almost invisible, making them hard to spot. If you’re unsure, seeking a professional opinion from an Approved Workshop Scheme technician can be beneficial.

However, not all leaks come from obvious sources. For some, the sealant around the base might appear intact, but water could pool on the roof and find its way in through cracks on the raised side at the front. This might lead to high damp levels and potential wood replacement.

Warranty Concerns

Elddis caravans are supposed to come with a 10-year warranty against water ingress. However, claiming under the warranty might be problematic if the caravan hasn’t been serviced within the stipulated time by Elddis. A potential solution could be the Consumer Rights Act 2015, where there’s no specific requirement for regular servicing.

Solutions and Workarounds

One owner managed to resolve the leakage issue by cleaning all joints and applying a 4-inch butyl tape. This seemed to effectively stop the water ingress. Yet, while this is a feasible short-term solution, it’s essential to monitor the situation to ensure the problem doesn’t return.

The Larger Issue: Build Quality

While leaks and cracks are common concerns, a more significant issue emerges when discussing Elddis caravans’ build quality. Some users have suggested that the company’s reputation in this regard is not stellar. The sentiment that older caravans were built more robustly than recent ones is prevalent. Many believe that today’s manufacturing lacks the pride and quality control of yesteryears, pushing the responsibility of identifying issues onto the customer.

It’s a sentiment shared by many industries. Where once customers expected a certain level of quality for their money, today they might find themselves dealing with multiple issues on brand new, high-cost items. It begs the question: is it worth spending a significant amount on a new caravan when older models seem to be more reliable?

Conclusion

Elddis caravans, like many brands, have their strengths and weaknesses. While the leakage issue is a notable concern, the underlying problem appears to be the overall build quality in recent years. Potential buyers and current owners should be vigilant in their maintenance and servicing to catch and resolve problems early.