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Choosing a Marine Surveyor
Anyone can title him or herself as a Marine Surveyor and start
a business. Certain marine surveyors are permitted to use a
designation denoting 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!
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What does the survey include and what type of
reporting format is used?
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Do they use ABYC, NFPA and USCG standards
in their surveys?
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How much will the inspection cost?
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How long will the on-board inspection take?
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A thorough inspection will not be rushed and will
depend on the type of survey required based on
vessel size, equipment and on-board systems.
- There may be additional services available such as
engine surveys, oil analysis, galvanic and stray
current corrosion testing, ultrasonic testing, moisture
testing and other non-destructive tests.
- There may be additional charges for these and
other services.
Well conducted surveys can provide good information on the
vessels' condition, but they are not guarantees. The surveyor
reports the condition in accessible areas only as it exists at
the time of inspection.
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A survey assesses both the structural condition and value of a used boat, and it's the seagoing equivalent of a termite inspection, plumbing/electrical report, and property appraisal. Chris Caswell discoverboating.com |
Why should you have a 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. Knowing
her condition and fair market value before you purchase is also
important. However, the most important reason to survey your
vessel is for the safety of the passengers and crew.
Types of Surveys Marine Surveys are performed for a number of
reasons, and the procedures for each vary to best suit your needs:
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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. This covers structural
integrity, electrical systems, the propulsion system,
the fuel system, other machinery, navigation
equipment, miscellaneous on-board systems, cosmetic
appearance, electronics, and overall maintenance
as well as an out-of-water inspection and a sea trial.
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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 its intended use. Most
insurance companies require a survey on older boats.
They will also want to know the vessel's fair market
value.
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Appraisal Inspection:
This inspection is performed to gather enough information
to justify or determine the fair market value of the vessel.
This is normally needed for financing, estate settlements,
donations and legal cases.
Other Considerations
A qualified Marine Surveyor is also called in to provide his/her expertise for:
Damage surveys
Load & stow
On or off charter
Compliance
New Boat Inspections
Attendance at new boat trials
Design and structural Suitability for certain tasks, to name but a few.
LOCATE A MARINE SURVEYOR
Professionals.
Todays surveyor must know and understand the applicable federal regulations regarding boating safety (33CFR) and equipment, marine sanitation devices, small passenger carrying vessels (SubT) fishing vessels (46CFR), collision regulations (COLREGS), as well as the recommended standards developed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC), as well as Offshore Racing Councils special regulations. Bob Wallstrom, NAMS-CMS |
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