TYPES OF SURVEYS | My Site 1

Types of Marine Surveys

There are several types of Surveys available but the most comprehensive and most requested are Pre-purchase surveys. These surveys are requested by prospective buyers to assess the overall condition and value of a vessel including structural, electrical, propulsion, fuel and other machinery, navigational equipment, onboard systems, interior, rigging at the deck level, and whether the vessel is safe for intended use. These surveys typically take an entire day to perform and involve both in water and short haul inspection, as well as a sea trial. Your bank and Insurance Company will require one before they will finance or insure it ! All surveys are conducted to comply with USCG CFR 33/46, ABYC and NFPA 302 Standards.

Other types of surveys we perform are:

Condition and Value (C&V) - These surveys are often done for Insurance companies, and are detailed surveys done with the vessel either afloat or ashore, depending on the carriers requirements, and doesn't necessarily require a sea trial or operational testing of all equipment or systems. These surveys are not sufficient to make an informed decision regarding the purchase of a vessel.

Damage Surveys - The purpose of a Marine Damage Survey is to assess the nature, cause and extent of the damage sustained by the hull, rig, systems or elsewhere on the vessel. The report presents information on probable causes of the damage, recommendations on repairs, and validates repair estimates for work. Surveyors are typically hired by Insurance Companies to investigate claims.

Appraisal Surveys - These surveys are used for financing, estate and divorce settlements, and donation of vessels to charities. Professional marine surveyors are recognized by the IRS, courts, banks and Insurance companies as boat and yacht appraisers within their area of expertise.

Rigging Inspection / Level 1 - Deck level inspection is included in both Pre-purchase and Condition and Value surveys and will be part of the final inspection report.

Rigging Inspection / Level 2 - In addition to inspection at the deck level, this inspection can accompany a Pre-purchase, C&V, or Damage survey and is done by gaining access to the standing rigging above deck level up to and including the mast head, spreaders, lighting and other equipment mounts, shroud mounting dogs/hasps, chain plates, and capstan. For these inspections we work with several different Professional Riggers who can provide pricing and availability and will assist you in coordinating this service.

What to expect?

You will need to confirm with the Broker what day and time the survey will take place.
Have the broker arrange for the short haul out with a local Marina. This typically takes between 1-2 hours.
Make sure you have a signed boarding agreement or email from the broker authorizing access to the vessel.
Payment is made when the survey begins and the report is provided within a 48 hour window in most cases.

Remember, we are working for YOU the buyer, and will provide the Survey report only to you.