Sometimes referred to as a pre-purchase condition survey. Normally, commissioned by the potential purchaser having placed a deposit on the vessel, but prior to full payment. The objective of this survey is to establish in some detail any major defects with the vessel that may subsequently cause the new owner major cost. The survey will need to be conducted with the vessel out of the water.

Below is a guide of what may be covered during the inspection:

Hull and deck structure, external and internal structure, bulkheads, framing and reinforcements, chainplates, keel/ballast, skin fittings and through hulls, ground tackle, stanchions, hand rails, jackstays, masts, spars and rigging (from deck level only), gas installations, fuel installations, fire fighting equipment, bilge pumping, water installation, toilet installation, machinery (not necessarily in operation although fluid samples may be taken to assess condition) and electrical system.

Note: The list above is not necessarily exhaustive, nor will the inspection include all of the above.
It is listed as a guide only.

 

types of survey