Roma Caravans Repairs

Hi North, Looking back at the thread you mentioned- the last post suggested that the Manufacturer was coming to the party. What happened?Oz doc.

In brief the van was custom made in Melbourne May 2005. It was stored on the Sunshine coast Qld till 17th Nov 2006 during the drought and only used for 12 days in that time. We then towed it to Cairns via the Bruce Highway arriving on 1st Dec 2006. Feb 2007 during the 'wet' season it began leaking front RH AND LH walls and at the door entrance LH rear.We advised Roma who took action. By August 2007 the leaks had expanded. Again we advised Roma who said they would truck it back from Rockhampton Qld. They were not forthcoming with a date. After many phone calls, a letter, Fair Trading - Vic intervention,complaint to RVMAA who would not intervene because we had sent a solicitors letter inviting a rep to inspect the van in Feb/Mar 2008, the next 'wet' season arrived .Roma had always agreed to fix it but would not put it in writing.After more phone calls a Roma rep agreed to truck the van from Cairns to Melbourne and back, carry out repairs and pay for 4 weeks accommodation - all at their expense. By this time there was a major leak in the hanging cupboard, leaks around the back window and one side window and leaks in 2 ceiling vents. Roma suggested that it had been through flood water. We pointed out that flood water does not come down through the ceiling ,selectively affecting only 2 windows, 1 hanging cupboard and partial walls at floor level.One owner was to be flown down to inspect the repairs but that offer was withdrawn. We were told the van was like new and on its way back. We looked forward to having our home back until it arrived with external damage in June 2008.Roma authorized us to get 2 quotes for repairs. When an inspection was done for quotation purposes, the repairer found rotting framework and delamination of the fibreglass walls. The internal repairs that were carried out in Melbourne were very shoddy . There is quite a long list and photos to prove it. We also have a list of witnesses who sighted the repairs and damage when it arrived back.Roma also have been sent these photos. They accept no responsibility .
Having exhausted all avenues, we now have to fight this in court, hence, the engineers report. His findings are incredible. I cant wait to disclose them but will give Roma a chance to right this wrong.
Everyone person who looks at the vans' rotting frame, sees the photos and hears the engineers findings, say that it is the worst case they have ever come across.
With an industry that is rapidly growing, I cannot understand why there isn't a government department who can be a watch dog (with teeth) to enforce quality contol and safety standards.
Our insurance claim was rejected - manufacturer at fault.
Sorry, this was supposed to be a brief account of this story. If anyone doubts that the above statement is untrue, then I trust that one day I'll have the pleasure of showing you through the caravan.
The above information only refers to our 26' 'Opulence' Roma caravan.

Regards,
North