Preparing for a Marine Survey

Please arrange to present a clean, neat boat and have all papers for the boat and systems ready to be reviewed. Lockers and cabin areas should be cleared of gear and open to inspection. Winter covers should be removed to allow for a complete deck inspection.

Arrange for surveyor’s access, owner’s permission to board, keys and a ladder if in dry dock.

If an out-of-the-water inspection has been requested, you will need to make arrangements with the boat yard to haul out the vessel. The price of a haul out is not included in a survey quote. If a sea trial has been requested, you will need to be prepared to operate the vessel or retain a captain. A surveyor will not operate your vessel during a sea trial.

The Surveyor may need visual access behind interior ceilings, cabinets, headliners, cabin soles, etc. in order to inspect various systems. Removal and inspection of below-the-waterline fasteners on wood vessels may also be required. Any dismantling and re-installation of the vessel’s interior is not the responsibility of the surveyor. A qualified person, present at the time of survey should be prepared to provide any needed inspection access. In order to get the job done properly, the Marine Surveyor, client and seller, or seller's broker need to work together to prepare the vessel for survey.

Please be sure to review the below checklist prior to your Marine Survey:

Keys for ignition and any locked spaces must be made available.
Contact phone numbers for the seller and buyer. (if applicable)
The vessel or yacht should be as clean and neat as possible.
Large furniture pieces must be positioned to allow access to panels and hatches for inspection.
The appropriate papers must be on board and made available. Including but not limited to proper documentation and vessel registration.
Document manuals and owner's guides for all systems and electronics should be on board.
Both DC and AC voltages should be made available.
Inform the Boat Yard or Marina management where the vessel is located of the Marine Survey date and Surveyor's name.
If the vessel is on residential property, the residence owner must be advised of the Marine Survey date and Surveyor's name.
Attendance of family and friends is strongly discouraged.
An appointment should be made with the hauling yard to haul the vessel on the day of the marine survey. (if applicable)
It should be made known in advance if zincs or bottom cleaning are required and how such services will be paid for.
A captain or the owner will be required to pilot the vessel. (if applicable)

Not sure if you're ready for a Marine Survey? Contact us anytime to find out!