Whether you're converting a van from scratch or adding upgrades to your motorhome (solar panels, a bed, furniture, a roof light), it's very likely that many of those changes need to be formally approved, that is, officially legalised. Skipping this step can cause serious problems. Here we explain what it involves and why it matters. (General information; your country's specific process governs.)
What getting a conversion approved means
Approving (or "legalising") a conversion is the process by which the changes you make to the vehicle, relative to its original technical specification, get officially registered and approved, and reflected in the paperwork. The framework in most European countries is a vehicle modification manual that classifies conversions and sets requirements for each one.
Which conversions usually need approval
Many of the typical ones in a van conversion or upgrade: electrical and gas installations, windows and roof lights, fixed furniture and beds, heating, seat changes, converting a panel van into living accommodation... Not all of them, but a good many. Each conversion has its own classification and requirements (sometimes needing an engineer's report, a workshop certificate, and so on).
Why doing it properly matters
- Legality: driving with unapproved conversions can lead to fines, failing the roadworthiness test and even the vehicle being impounded.
- Insurance: in the event of a claim, an unapproved conversion can leave you without cover.
- Safety: the requirements exist so that the conversion is safe (above all gas and electricity).
- Resale: a camper with everything in order is worth more and sells more easily.
The process, broadly
It usually involves: carrying out the conversion to meet the requirements, obtaining the necessary paperwork (workshop certificates, an engineer's report and certificate if the conversion requires it), passing an inspection at the roadworthiness test and updating the technical data sheet. Lean on professionals (workshops, engineers) who know the procedure; trying it blind usually ends up expensive.
In short
Many conversions and van builds need formal approval to be legal, pass the roadworthiness test and not compromise your insurance or your safety. The step you can take today: before carrying out a conversion (or if you buy a camper that's already been converted), find out whether it needs approval and insist it's recorded on the technical data sheet; lean on workshops and engineers who know the process. Combine it with buying second-hand.