FAQ'S
Helpful Information
WHY GET A SURVEY?
Buying a boat.
When buying a boat from either a broker or private seller it is common practice to place an offer 'subject to survey'. This allows you to employ a marine surveyor to undertake either a hull or full survey on the boat.
The reason for this is to give you a better insight in to the vessel you are hoping to buy. On completion of the survey you may decide go ahead with the purchase, renegotiate the asking price, or walk away.
If you already own the boat.
Your insurance provider may ask for a recent survey so that they are able to provide you with insurance. This is particularly common for boats over 30 years old. Alternatively, you may simply wish to know more about the condition of your boat.
HOW LONG DOES A SURVEY TAKE
The length of time varies depending on the size of boat and its condition. As a rough estimate a full survey can take a full day, whilst a hull only or internal survey can be completed in half a day.
WHAT HAPPENS IF MY BOAT FAILS THE SURVEY?
There is no need to panic!
A survey only determines the condition of the vessel at the time undertaken. Ultimately, your boat cannot 'fail' a survey.
The issues found during the survey will determine the costs and severity of the situation. In most cases a boat can have the relevant work carried out to make it meet yours or the buyers needs and requirements.
There are various ways to deal with this situation. If there are issues with the boat then you can either; renegotiate the price, requesting a lower sale price. Or if you are selling the boat, pay for the problems to be fixed and still request the original pre-sale price agreed before the survey.
Finally, if you do not wish to continue with the sale after the survey because the boat is un-insurable or has too many problems, you can withdraw your offer.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE MY BOAT?
The following preparations will aid the in a more comprehensive survey:
Clear inspection hatches and gas lockers
Remove unnecessary items from deck boards
Tidy fuse board cupboards
Allow access to as many skin fittings as possible
If possible request the hull is pressure washed prior to the survey