Putting Your Boat In Survey: A Step-By-Step Guide

Buying a boat is a big decision, and it's often an expensive one. Getting a boat surveyed can be daunting, but it's a crucial step to ensure your new boat is fit for purchase and to identify any issues in advance. While there is currently no requirement for privately owned, British-registered yachts under 24 meters to be surveyed, it's still important to get a second opinion before making such a large purchase. A survey can provide peace of mind and in-depth knowledge about the boat you're considering. It can also help you negotiate the price, plan for any necessary repairs, or even withdraw your interest. In this article, we'll discuss the different types of boat surveys, how to choose a surveyor, and the benefits of getting a boat survey when buying from a private seller.

Know the different types of surveys: condition and valuation, mechanical, and rig

When putting a boat in survey, it is important to know the different types of surveys that are available. The three main types of surveys are: Condition and Valuation (also called Marine Survey), Mechanical (or Engine Survey), and Rig Survey (only for sailboats).

The Condition and Valuation survey is a comprehensive inspection of the boat's hull, structures, and systems. This type of survey is typically required for insurance and financing purposes and is sometimes referred to as a "pre-purchase survey". It includes an inspection of all systems onboard, such as the hull, running gear, electronics, electrical system, plumbing, and more. While it is not required, it is highly recommended to get a Condition and Valuation survey before purchasing a boat.

The Mechanical survey focuses on the engine, generator, and other mechanical systems. The surveyor will take oil samples for evaluation, as this is an important tool to understand the interior condition of the engine. This type of survey is particularly important for expensive or complex engines, or those with a lack of maintenance.

The Rig survey is specific to sailboats and involves inspecting the entire rig, including the mast, standing rigging, running rigging, sails, and structural integrity. It is recommended to have an experienced rigger perform this survey.

These surveys can help potential boat buyers make informed decisions and ensure they are getting a safe and properly functioning vessel. By understanding the different types of surveys, boat owners or buyers can choose the most appropriate one for their needs.

Research and select an accredited surveyor

Researching and selecting an accredited surveyor is a crucial step in the boat-buying process. Here are some detailed tips to help you choose the right one:

• Understand the role of a boat surveyor: A boat surveyor is an individual certified by the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS) or recognised by the IRS, courts, banks, and insurance companies. They perform inspections on boats to evaluate their mechanical and structural components. This includes checking for any structural flaws, testing systems, and conducting a sea trial to ensure the vessel's functionality and safety.
• Check accreditations: It is important to verify the surveyor's accreditations and memberships. Many lending and insurance companies require surveyors to be members of professional associations such as the National Association of Marine Surveyors (NAMS) or SAMS. These associations uphold strict codes of ethics and require members to pursue continuing education. You can also check if they are members of the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) with access to authoritative ABYC Standards.
• Experience and specialisation: Consider the surveyor's experience and whether they have expertise in the specific type of boat you intend to purchase. Ask if they have surveyed similar makes and models. This ensures they have the necessary knowledge to identify potential issues unique to that type of vessel.
• Scope of the survey: Understand what is included in the survey. A typical survey includes an out-of-water inspection, a sea trial, and a comprehensive report. However, additional services, such as compression tests, may be offered at an extra cost. Ensure you know what you are paying for and whether it meets your requirements.
• Turnaround time: Ask about the expected turnaround time for receiving the survey report. This can vary depending on the complexity of the survey and the number of findings. Typically, you can expect to receive the report within a few days of the survey.
• Location and costs: Consider whether you want a local surveyor or are willing to pay additional travel costs for a surveyor from another area. Costs for surveys typically range from $18 to $25 per foot, but they can vary depending on the surveyor and the size and type of boat.
• Recommendations and reviews: Ask your yacht broker or sales agent for recommendations. They often have relationships with surveyors and can provide you with a list of trusted professionals in your desired location. You can also check online forums and boat owner groups for reviews and recommendations.
• Ask questions: Don't hesitate to ask the surveyor questions about their process, experience, and what to expect. A good surveyor should be willing to address your queries and concerns.

Remember, selecting the right surveyor can provide you with peace of mind and help ensure you are making a well-informed purchase decision.

Understand the benefits of a survey: peace of mind, in-depth knowledge, and safety

Putting a boat through a survey can be a stressful process, especially if you are new to it. However, it comes with a host of benefits that can give you peace of mind, in-depth knowledge, and safety.

Firstly, a survey can help identify potential risks and issues with your boat. Marine surveyors will meticulously inspect the hull condition, stability, structural integrity, and various other components to ensure the safety and well-being of your vessel. They will also assess the ballast systems, weight distribution, and buoyancy to identify any potential imbalances that could be dangerous out at sea. By detecting weaknesses early on, you can take immediate action to prevent accidents or structural failures.

Secondly, surveys ensure compliance with maritime regulations and safety standards. Governing bodies and classification societies require periodic surveys to independently assess a vessel's safety measures, equipment, and systems. This demonstrates your commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards and helps guarantee the well-being of everyone on board.

Thirdly, regular marine surveys are essential for preventing catastrophic events and protecting both human life and the environment. These thorough inspections enable maritime professionals to identify issues early on and take corrective measures. Surveys can help identify risks such as potential clashes with other vessels, groundings, or equipment failures, thus enhancing the safety and sustainability of maritime operations.

Additionally, surveys are valuable for assessing maintenance needs. Experts can thoroughly examine every aspect of your vessel to determine what requires immediate attention. This allows you to prioritize maintenance tasks and efficiently allocate resources, enhancing the reliability and longevity of your boat while reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns.

Furthermore, surveys are crucial for insurance purposes. Insurance providers rely on comprehensive survey reports to gauge the risks associated with a vessel and determine the appropriate coverage. Regular surveys demonstrate your commitment to safety, which can lead to more favorable insurance rates and maximum protection for your vessel.

Lastly, surveys can enhance the resale value of your boat. A recent survey provides potential buyers with a detailed report on the vessel's condition, instilling confidence and ensuring a secure investment. It showcases transparency and reinforces the worth of your boat in the eyes of buyers, making it a unique selling point that can set your vessel apart from other listings.

In conclusion, putting your boat through a survey provides numerous advantages, including risk identification, compliance assurance, enhanced safety, maintenance planning, insurance coverage, and improved resale value. It is a vital step towards safeguarding your vessel, protecting your investment, and giving you peace of mind as a boat owner.

Choose the right type of survey for your needs: full condition, mechanical, or rig

When it comes to putting a boat in survey, there are several types of surveys to choose from, depending on your specific needs. Here are the key differences between a full condition survey, a mechanical survey, and a rig survey:

Full Condition Survey:

A full condition survey is a comprehensive inspection that covers the entire boat, including its propulsion systems. This type of survey is typically done when buying a used boat and can help determine the actual value of the boat by identifying items in need of repair or replacement. It also helps identify any potential problems that may not be apparent to the average buyer. This type of survey usually costs around $20 to $25 per foot of the boat and can take a couple of hours to a couple of days, depending on the size of the boat.

Mechanical Survey:

A mechanical survey focuses specifically on the boat's mechanical systems, including the engine and propulsion systems. This type of survey is particularly important for large powerboats, where the engine(s) are a significant part of the boat's value. During a mechanical survey, the surveyor will inspect the engine for any signs of damage, leaks, or other issues. They will also check for proper maintenance, such as the date of the last oil change, and may use specialised tools like moisture meters and infrared cameras to detect issues.

Rig Survey:

A rig survey is specifically for sailboats and involves inspecting the rigging, spars, spreaders, rigging attachment points, chain plates, and their attachment to the hull or bulkheads. This type of survey is crucial for ensuring the safety and performance of a sailboat. An electronic rig tester can be used to find rigging components that are starting to fail, such as cracked terminals or improperly swaged rigging wires. A rig survey may add time and expense to the overall survey process, but it is worth considering if you are purchasing a sailboat.

Remember, the type of survey you choose will depend on your specific needs and the type of boat you own or plan to purchase. It is always recommended to consult with a professional marine surveyor to ensure you are making an informed decision.

Prepare for the survey: ensure the boat is clean, tidy, and free of clutter

Preparing your boat for a survey is a crucial step in the process of selling your boat. Here are some tips to ensure your boat is clean, tidy, and free of clutter for the surveyor:

Firstly, ensure the boat is thoroughly cleaned. This includes the interior and exterior, with a focus on removing any grease and diesel smells. Clean the corners, counters, floors, windows, and leather or fabric seats. Wipe down surfaces, inside drawers and cabinets, and remove any crumbs or old food. Ensure life jackets and other safety equipment are in order and easily accessible. Check that all lights are working, and remove any unnecessary items such as pillows, blankets, and bedding.

Secondly, pay attention to the engine. Make sure it is clean and tidy, with no oil leaks or visible issues. If possible, ask the broker or seller to start the engine for you, and observe for any clouds of smoke, which could indicate oil burning. Check the oil by pulling the dipstick and smelling it; a burnt smell could indicate engine overheating. Also, locate the oil filter and check the date it was last changed; it should be within the last 12 months.

Thirdly, address any leftover wiring from equipment upgrades. Remove any unnecessary wiring and organise the remaining wires with zip ties. Ensure the wiring is labelled, as this will make it easier for the buyer to understand and add any new wiring in the future.

Finally, prepare all the necessary documentation. Have the ship's manuals and papers in order for the surveyor to review. Check the expiration dates on flares and other safety equipment, and ensure you have the necessary placards posted, such as oil and garbage placards. If there are any parts or equipment included in the listing that are not on the boat, clean and prepare those as well.

Frequently asked questions