Van conversions are not cheap! They take time, money, creativity and a whole lot of work — and in the end, your converted van might become your weekend getaway or your full-time home on the road. That’s why choosing the right camper van conversion company is one of the most important decisions you’ll make.
Whether you’re planning quick trips to campgrounds and state parks or selling everything to live the vanlife dream, the builder you hire will shape the comfort, safety, and durability of your custom camper van. Doing your due diligence up front can save you stress (and cash) later.
For a broad overview of hiring a camper van conversion company, check out my companion post: “How to Find the Right Camper Van Builder (Without Losing Your Shirt or Your Sanity)”. In addition, if you want to hear about my latest camper van build, check out our podcast on the topic here!
Without further ado, here are the essential questions I always recommend asking. Think of this as your checklist for finding a camper van builder you can actually trust.
1. How long have you been doing this?
Experience counts. Years in business matter, but so does what they did before camper van conversions — were they carpenters, electricians, or just figuring it out as they went? Ask both. A builder with a trade background and a few years of van-specific work under their belt is usually a safer bet.
2. How many camper vans have you actually converted — and which ones?
Sprinters, Transits, and ProMasters all have quirks. The more builds they’ve done, the more lessons they’ve learned. Don’t just ask for the number — ask if they’ve worked on your specific van model. Repetition is what irons out the kinks.
3. Can I talk to a few of your past customers?
Don’t proceed without this. Get at least three references and ask real questions: How was the builder’s communication? Did they promptly answer calls and emails? Did they keep you up to date with the build progress? Were you able (invited) to visit the shop to check progress during the build? Did they accommodate any mid build changes? Was the project on time? Did you feel part of the build process? How has the van held up after months (or years) of use? The answers will tell you more than any Instagram photo.
4. How long does a typical build take?
Conversions can take 6–12 weeks, sometimes more. Ask about their usual timeline, but also how they handle delays — because every project hits a snag. A good camper van builder is upfront and keeps you in the loop instead of leaving you hanging.
And, how do they bring you along for the ride — regular calls? Emails/photos? Can you drop in? Trust me, you are going to want to watch this thing develop!
5. Do you have a certain “style”?
Every builder has a look. Some crank out modern, minimalist builds. Others do cozy cabins or high-end luxury. Scroll their portfolio and make sure you actually like what they do — because chances are, that’s what you’ll get. Don’t expect them to reinvent their entire style for you.
6. What materials do you use?
Vans shake, rattle, and roll. What works in a stationary house doesn’t always hold up on the road. Ask what materials they use, why they chose them, and whether they’re lightweight and durable enough for life on the move. If they can’t explain their choices, that’s a red flag.
7. Do you build cabinets in-house?
Cabinetry can make or break a camper van. Ask if they custom-build or buy prefab. In-house CNC work usually means tighter fit and fewer rattles. Customization also lets you maximize every inch of space — which matters a lot in a van.
8. How do you handle electrical systems?
This is the heart of a camper van. Anyone can slap wood on walls, but wiring batteries and solar is another level. Ask what brands they use (Victron, Battle Born, Renogy, etc.), how many systems they’ve installed, and who actually does the wiring. If electrical seems like an afterthought, walk away.
9. What features and options do you offer?
Plumbing, showers, toilets, dinettes, work spaces — every lifestyle needs different features. Some builders specialize in full off-grid setups, others keep it simple. Make sure they can deliver the exact options you care about.
10. What’s this really going to cost me?
Camper van conversions range from $20,000 for basic setups to over $100,000 for full custom homes (and that’s not including the van). Ask for a detailed, line-item quote. No hidden fees, no vague answers. Also ask about payment schedules and warranty coverage. A good van conversion company is upfront about money from day one.
11. Do you do partial conversions?
Not everyone needs a full build. Maybe you just want electrical or insulation done. Ask if they take on partial projects. It can save you money and still give you professional quality where it counts.
12. What’s included in your warranty?
A camper van is a big investment. A legit van builder will warranty their work. Ask how long it lasts and what’s covered: cabinetry, electrical, plumbing, labor, or just parts?
13. Will my camper van still be insurable and legal?
Insurance companies care about safety standards. If your builder doesn’t follow RVIA or local codes, you might have trouble getting coverage. Ask how they make sure your custom camper van is legal and insurable.
14. What’s the resale value of a converted van?
If you might sell someday, ask what features hold value. Clean layouts and quality systems usually pay off better than flashy extras. A good van conversion company will know what buyers look for.
15. Do they offer a pick up orientation?
Your dream camper van will certainly have a lot of great features, but will you know where they all are and how to use them? Any decent builder will suggest — better yet, require — that you are available to take a couple of hours at pickup to go through the entire build. Where is my electrical system? How do I turn my system off/on? How do I fill my fresh water tank? How do I dump my grey water? What does this switch do? How does my heater work? Is there a remote for my AC or my Maxx fan? Where’s the toilet? Remember, this is a pretty big deal and once you drive off in your new home on wheels, you’re gonna want to know what’s up when you pull over that first night to camp out.
16. What is their post-build support plan?
How will they support you after you drive away in the camper van? Do they offer warranties? Trouble-shooting? Check-ins? Adjustments after an initial shake-down trip? You want to know up front if they are going to leave you high-and-dry after you’ve given the final payment.
Final Tip: Don’t Ignore Your Gut
If something feels off — it probably is. The best camper van conversion company isn’t just skilled. They’re communicative, trustworthy, and actually care about your project.
Use this list as your guide. And if you want the full deep dive on finding the right builder, check out my companion post: “How to Find the Right Camper Van Conversion Company (Without Losing Your Shirt or Your Sanity).”
