Survey Preparation

Let’s Get Ready For A Survey

“Pre-Purchase and Valuation Surveys” and “Oil Analysis” require only authorization from the owner and permission to enter the yard.

The most common question we are asked for a survey is “How much and how long will it take?”

Let’s address the “How long” question first. The answer to this question is dependent on various issues. The size of the vessel has some impact on the time factor; but other factor have a larger significant on the time element. Some of these factors are the type of vessel, age, construction material, amount of gear on board, the electronics package on board and vessel readiness for inspection. This is not a complete list; it is just an illustration to demonstrate the difficulty in making an accurate time estimate. In general it will take at least 4-5 hours to survey a vessel in reasonably good shape and not loaded with extras.

The point here is that in order to do a good survey in a timely fashion; you have to do your part by preparing the boat for your survey. Before the start of the survey we are going to ask that you complete, as much as you can of, the following before we arrive for the survey.

Being prepared for the survey will allow us to concentrate on the survey and avoids distractions.

1. Verify that the batteries are charged.
2. All shore side connections are available and ready for connection. (power & water)
3. Closets, Cabinet and other storage area must be cleaned out and accessible.
4. Remove all clothing and linen that is not needed.
5. Remove gear that is not part of the sale. Provide an inventory list of the gear that is to be included in the sale or valuation. (TV, Microwave, water toys, scuba gear, fishing gear, etc). This list should describe the item and when purchased, priced paid and estimated value.
6. Sail boats provide a list of all sails with the age that are part of the sale or valuation
7. Remove all removable floor covering to expose all floor boards.
8. Have all sea cocks accessible.
9. Inventory list of spare parts that are to be included
10. Make sure all light bulbs are working.
11. Potable water tank is full
12. Have life jackets that are part of the sale or valuation available for inspection.
13. Access to the facility has been authorized
14. If you are not the owner. A release statement from the owner will be required.
15. Have copies of all required vessel documents. (Registration, COD, etc.)
16. If a bottom inspection is part of the survey. Have bottom cleaned including underwater machinery early so the grounds around the vessel is dry.
17. The attendance of the owner to answer questions would be helpful; but not required.