Navigating Through Damaged Vessel Surveys

Anyone living along the north east coast is all too familiar with the damages resulting from Super Storm Sandy, Katrina and the aftermath of what seems to be a never ending pattern of horrific weather. The end result is a tidal wave of damaged boat claims. If that isn't good enough reason for a boat survey in hand I don't know what is. As a boat owner you have a considerable amount of money invested, and you need to protect it!
 
Now, you the boat owner has many responsibilities that can become quite overwhelming after a disaster. If you are the victim of environmental caused damages, you’ll need professional help and fast.
 
Storm damage can really wreak havoc on your investment. And most insurance adjusters just aren't equipped with the knowledge, expertise and tools to thoroughly access the hidden damages. Sure anyone can see the obvious, but it’s the hidden things that will come back to haunt you if not diagnosed properly.
 
At BMP Marine, our team has the know how and experience to do just that. We deal with the maritime industry on all levels and maintain a constant pulse on it. We’re in the life and we live it every day!

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Damaged vessels take on a whole different dimension from the usual surveys. I’ll list 2 major categories and give a brief insight into each of them.
 
Structural damage: This is usually the most obvious resulting from physical damage to the hull and superstructure. Delamination, water intrusion, structural integrity compromised, running gear damaged, fuel tanks ruptured, I could go on but you get the picture.
 
Electrical and power plant damage: Electronics are expensive, and that’s an understatement. A usual compliment of GPS plotters, radar, sonar, EPIRBS, and radios can really add up, so your surveyor better be up to speed. Go into any West Marine and see for yourself. A Garmin bundle can be upwards of five thousand dollars. As you see this can be quite overwhelming, but rest assured this is what we do.

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The reality is that vessel damage isn't always weather related. Sadly, as is too often nowadays, boats become vandalized. Fires, fuel tank contamination, theft all are possible contributing factors that also need proper appraisal. Once again experience is the most important underlying factor in these types of surveys. Negligence and ignorance can cost you a fortune.
 
Rest assured that when you choose BMP Marine, we deliver a professional, prompt and cost efficient service. I hope you can use this report as an informative tool when deciding which course to steer in the future.

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