Frequently Asked Questions

 

Table of Contents

  1. Does a marine survey include the engine and generator ?
  2. Should the bottom of the boat be inspected ?
  3. I am in the market for a boat. What should I do to protect myself ?
  4. What should I do prior to having my boat surveyed ?
  5. What standards are used during a survey ?

Does a marine survey include the engine and generator ?

Basically no. Exterior conditions on the engines such as the fuel and exhaust systems will be checked but no opinion will be expressed on the interior condition of engines and generators.  A mechanic should be engaged to perform an engine/mechanical survey if the condition of the engines and generators are a concern.

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Should the bottom of the boat be inspected ?

On a pre-purchase survey the bottom of the vessel should be inspected.  If the boat is kept in the water then a "short haul" where a vessel is hauled in straps, the bottom of the boat inspected then the boat is relaunched  is customary.  The buyer is responsible for the haul out fee.  An insurance survey typically is done in the water with out being hauled but ask your insurance agent that question because it is occasionally required.

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I am in the market for a boat. What should I do to protect myself ?

When you find the boat that you want, make your offer contingent on a satisfactory survey and sea trial.  This will insure that you have the right to have the boat surveyed and if major deficiencies are discovered you can renegotiate or cancel the contract.

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What should I do prior to having my boat surveyed ?

Boats are not perfect and recommendations are expected during a survey.  There are however, some easy things to do to prepare for a survey.  Remove all unnecessary clutter so that all lockers and access areas can be easily inspected.  Check the expiration date on flares, that there are life jackets and a throwable life saving device, all of the thru hull sea cocks are operable, the batteries are strapped down and covered and that the state registration or documentation papers are aboard.

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What standards are used during a survey ?

A survey will check for compliance with United States Coast Guard requirements, National Fire Protection Standard 302 and American Boat and Yacht Council Standards and Recommended
Practices.  In addition, the vague categories of "normal marine standards" and the "marine surveyor's experience" will be used.

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Copyright © 2000  [Roger Bass & Associates]. All rights reserved.
Revised: December 11, 2000 .