Are you hunting for a home that can actually fit your motorhome or fifth-wheel in Fort Mohave? You’re not alone. Many buyers want true RV storage, not just a tall carport or a listing buzzword that comes up short. In this guide, you’ll learn what qualifies as an RV garage home, the sizes and hookups that matter, how HOAs and lot layouts affect storage, and which features protect value and reduce hassles. Let’s dive in.
What an RV garage home includes
An RV garage home is a residence with a garage bay sized and outfitted for a recreational vehicle. It can be attached to the home or a detached shop. What makes it “RV-capable” are the clearances, slab strength, and utility hookups designed for a motorhome, travel trailer, or fifth-wheel.
Common setups you’ll see:
- Single deep bay that’s long enough for a motorhome or trailer.
- Multi-bay garage with one full-height, extra-deep bay.
- Detached RV shop with roll-up doors and a workshop area.
- Combination storage, such as a covered pad plus an enclosed bay.
Buyers choose these homes for indoor protection from sun and wind, security, and the convenience of integrated power, water, and sewer.
Typical sizes that actually fit rigs
Bay measurements on listings can be inconsistent. Always confirm in person with a tape measure and check the approach from the street.
Door heights and widths
- Door heights you’ll see most often: 10 ft, 12 ft, and 14 ft.
- Larger Class A motorhomes generally need 12 to 14 ft of vertical clearance. Some approach 13.5 ft.
- Single-bay widths typically run 12 to 16 ft. Wider doors help with mirrors and maneuvering.
Bay depth and approach
- Interior length: 25 to 35 ft can fit many travel trailers or Class B/C rigs.
- For Class A motorhomes and big fifth-wheels, target 40 to 60+ ft of interior depth.
- Tandem depth that fits a tow vehicle in front of the RV usually means 50+ ft.
- A straight approach is best. Tight turns, narrow side yards, or low eaves can block access even if the bay dimensions look fine.
Hookups that make life easier
The right utilities turn storage into true at-home camping and maintenance.
Electrical power
- 30-amp RV service is common for many travel trailers.
- 50-amp RV service (120/240V) is standard for larger rigs that run multiple air conditioners.
- Look for a dedicated, permitted 50A circuit, correct receptacle type, proper GFCI protection, and adequate panel capacity or a subpanel for the bay.
Water and sewer
- Full hookup is best. A dedicated sewer connection tied to the home’s sewer line is the most convenient.
- Some owners use an exterior cleanout. Confirm that it’s permitted and sanitary.
- If the property is on septic, verify whether RV dumping is allowed, tank capacity, and any health rules.
- A dedicated hose bib with a pressure regulator and backflow prevention is a plus.
Cooling and ventilation
Fort Mohave summers are hot, so climate control matters for you and for protecting your RV.
- Insulated doors and walls, sealed rooflines, and a dedicated mini-split or shop HVAC help maintain temperature.
- Exhaust fans and proper ventilation reduce heat buildup.
- Pest-proofing around vents and doors helps protect wiring and interiors.
Slabs, doors, and shop details that matter
- A reinforced concrete slab is important for heavy vehicles. Many RV bays use thicker pours or added reinforcement.
- Epoxy or non-slip finishes make cleanup easier.
- Floor drains and correct slab slope prevent pooling water.
- High-clearance sectional doors and operators cost more to repair or replace, so note age and condition.
Local rules in Fort Mohave
Fort Mohave is in unincorporated Mohave County, so county rules and any HOA guidelines apply. Always verify details for the specific property.
County permits and setbacks
- Mohave County manages permits, setbacks, and accessory structures.
- Confirm what is allowed for detached shops, carports, and added hookups based on the lot’s zoning.
- Ask for permit history on converted garages, added pedestals, or sewer tie-ins.
HOAs: Valley View at Sunrise Hills example
HOAs commonly regulate visible RV parking and outbuildings. Use Valley View at Sunrise Hills as a case study for what to check.
- Many HOAs allow enclosed or screened storage but restrict visible parking on streets or driveways.
- Review CC&Rs and design guidelines for rules on the number of toys, where they can be parked, door styles, and exterior changes.
- Some HOAs require architectural approval for a detached RV garage or facade changes.
- Look for rules on temporary parking for loading and unloading, electrical pedestals, and visible sewer hoses.
- For any home in Valley View at Sunrise Hills, request current CC&Rs, design rules, and any variances. Do not rely on verbal assurances.
Lot size, orientation, and easements
- Small lots may limit side-yard access or turn radius, even if the bay is tall and deep.
- Larger lots make it easier to add a detached shop or create a straight approach.
- Utility easements can block placement of a shop, pad, or gate.
- Adding concrete can change drainage. Check whether a drainage plan or permit is needed.
Features that support value
If you want strong usability and resale potential, prioritize:
- A true RV bay with 12 to 14 ft door height and adequate depth for your rig.
- Dedicated, permitted 50A power and an on-site sewer hookup.
- A straight, wide approach with a gate sized for the RV’s height and width.
- HVAC, insulation, bright lighting, and thoughtful storage in the bay.
- Security features such as keypad gates and cameras.
- Professional finishes like epoxy flooring and a reinforced slab.
Ownership costs and maintenance
Oversized doors, cooling, and heavy slabs add unique upkeep needs.
- Large door service or replacement can be higher than standard garages.
- Bay cooling systems in summer need routine maintenance and may raise utility costs.
- Older panels might need upgrades to safely power a 50A pedestal.
- Heavy loads can cause slab cracking if soils or compaction were not ideal.
- If on septic, frequent RV dumping may require more frequent pumping or system upgrades.
- Confirm with your insurer how an RV bay and on-site storage affect premiums.
Buyer walkthrough checklist
Use this quick list while you tour homes, and ask the seller or agent for documents.
Measurements and access
- Measure interior width, clear door height, and interior depth.
- Check driveway width, gate width, and the turn from the street.
- Look for overhead obstructions like eaves, tree branches, or power lines.
- Confirm side or rear access for towing and unhitching.
Utilities and hookups
- Identify 30A or 50A power, outlet type, breaker label, and GFCI protection.
- Locate the sewer hookup or cleanout and verify whether the home is on sewer or septic.
- Find the water hookup and note any pressure regulator or backflow device.
- Check whether the bay has HVAC, insulation, ventilation, or exhaust fans.
Legal and HOA items
- Get the HOA’s CC&Rs, architectural guidelines, and any rules on RV storage.
- Verify what accessory structures are permitted on the lot.
- Ask for permit history for the bay, electrical pedestal, and sewer connections.
- Review recorded easements that could limit future changes.
Structure and maintenance
- Inspect door tracks, springs, operators, and weather seals.
- Look at slab condition and drainage for cracks or pooling.
- Note any roof penetrations or skylights in detached shops.
Insurance and resale
- Ask your insurer about coverage for storing and working on RVs in an enclosed bay.
- Request seller disclosures for water intrusion, slab repairs, or electrical upgrades.
Smart next steps
- Match bay size to your current rig and allow extra room for mirrors or a future upgrade.
- Budget for possible electrical, HVAC, or slab improvements if a home checks most boxes but needs updates.
- Before you make an offer, request CC&Rs and design guidelines, confirm permit history, and measure access from the street.
- If you plan to add a detached shop, speak with county permitting first to understand setbacks, drainage, and lot coverage.
Ready to tour RV garage homes in Fort Mohave or build a plan to list yours for maximum appeal? Book a Consultation with Unknown Company.
FAQs
What makes a home an “RV garage” home in Fort Mohave?
- A bay with RV-ready height, width, and depth, a reinforced slab, and dedicated hookups like 50A power and a sewer tie-in.
What door height and depth should I target for a Class A motorhome?
- Aim for a 12 to 14 ft clear door height and 40 to 60+ ft of interior depth, plus a straight approach from the street.
Can I dump RV waste into a home’s septic system?
- Sometimes, but you must confirm local health rules, tank capacity, and whether the connection is permitted for RV use.
How do HOAs like Valley View at Sunrise Hills affect RV storage?
- Many HOAs allow enclosed storage but restrict visible street or driveway parking; always review CC&Rs and design guidelines before you rely on a feature.
What are common electrical needs for larger RVs at home?
- Most larger rigs need a dedicated, permitted 50A circuit with the correct receptacle, panel capacity, and proper GFCI protection.
