A well conducted survey can provide important information on your vessel's condition. Why should we have the vessel surveyed? Most insurance companies and banks will require them on older vessels. They will need to know her condition and fair market value in order to finance and/or underwrite the vessel. Also, knowing her condition and fair market value can be extremely important in making an informed decision before you purchase. However, the most important reason to survey your vessel is for the safety of the passengers and crew.

CHOOSING A MARINE SURVEYOR

Anyone can title him or herself a Marine Surveyor and start a business. Certain marine surveyors are permitted to use a designation denotating membership in accrediting organizations that require members to meet strict professional, technical, and ethical standards. Surveyors should provide you with a professionally prepared report that can be accepted by your bank and/or insurance company. Talk with prospective surveyors and ask questions! What does the survey include, and what type of reporting format is used? Do they use ABYC, NFPA and USCG standards in their surveys? How much will the inspection cost? How long will the on board inspection take?

A thorough inspection will not be rushed and will depend on the type of survey required based on size, equipment and on board systems. There may be additional services available such as engine surveys, oil analysis, galvanic and stray current corrosion testing, moisture testing, ultrasonic testing, as well as other non-destructive tests. There may be additional charges for these and other services.

Remember, a well conducted survey can provide important information about the condition of the vessel, but they are not guarantees. The surveyor reports the condition in accessible areas only as it existed at the time of the inspection.

PREPARING FOR THE SURVEY

Time and additional expenses can be saved by preparing the vessel for inspection and making her more accessible. Arrange to have presented a clean, shipshape boat, and have all papers and miscellaneous gear ready.

If applicable, you will need to make arrangements to haul the vessel for bottom inspection, and a captain for sea trial. Lockers and cabin area should be cleared of all miscellaneous gear. The surveyor should never be asked to prepare a boat for inspection.

The surveyor may request minor dismantling of interior ceilings, headliners, flooring, etc. in order to gain access to suspected areas. Random inspection of fastners on wood boats below the water line could be examined for condition. Any dismantling and reinstallation of these parts should be performed by qualified personel, which is the responsibility of the person ordering the survey. Written authorization from the owner may be needed to board and/or remove any part of the vessel.

ONCE YOU RETAIN THE SURVEYOR, HE OR SHE WORKS ONLY FOR YOU AND REPORTS TO NO ONE ELSE. THE SURVEYOR IS THERE TO PROTECT YOUR INTEREST!!

Courtesy of the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors