WHY HAVE A MARINE SURVEY PERFORMED?

A thorough professional survey can provide you with important information on a vessels condition. Why hire a surveyor? A professional surveyor will provide objective opinions through experienced eyes. Buying a boat is emotional. People tend to fall in love with the prospect of a new car, house, a boat is no different. Love may be blind, but a surveyor is working for you eyes wide open. Most banks and insurance underwriters require a survey on older vessels. They will want to know her condition and fair market value in order to insure or finance her. The most important reason to survey your vessel however is for the safety of her passengers and crew.

CHOOSING A MARINE SURVEYOR:

Anyone can start a business and title him or herself a Marine Surveyor. Certain organizations 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! How long will the survey take? 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? 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 haul out, 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.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR SURVEY

  • Full Hull, Deck and Systems Inspection
  • Basic list of Recommendations and valuation. Faxed or e-mailed within 24 hours of inspection.
  • Final written report, includes:
  • Bound folder.
  • Color photos.
  • U.S.C.G. Documentation query.
  • Applicable recall printouts.
  • CD-ROM of all survey color photos.
  • Snail mailed within 3 working days.
  • Follow-up consultation if questions arise.
  • Compliance follow-up inspections.
WHAT YOUR SURVEYOR EXPECTS
  • Payment in full on the day of the survey.
  • All compartments and lockers cleared.
  • Ship's papers available for inspection.
  • Coordinate and pre-pay marina fees, haul-out and engine survey inspectors.
  • Attend survey in person.
  • Ask a lot of questions.
Boat History

ONCE YOU RETAIN US WE WORK ONLY FOR YOU AND REPORT TO NO ONE ELSE. WE ARE HERE TO PROTECT YOUR INTEREST!!

PRE-PURCHASE SURVEY:
This is the most comprehensive type of inspection, and is strongly advised when purchasing a new or used vessel. Condition and overall operation of the vessel should be examined.
INSURANCE SURVEY:
This inspection is performed so that the insurance company can determine whether or not the vessel is an acceptable risk. They are interested in structural integrity and safety for the vessels intended use. Most insurance companies require a survey on older boats. They will also want to know the vessels fair market value.
APPRAISAL INSPECTION:
This inspection is performed to gather enough information to justify or determine fair market value of the vessel. This is normally needed for financing, estate settlements, donations, and legal cases.
DAMAGE INSPECTION:
This is performed to assess the extent of damage, recommend repairs, estimate repair cost, and if requested, the probable cause.

Office: 239-389-9769 Mobile: 239-248-7460