Marine Surveys

In 2008 I attended the Marine Surveyors course held at the International Boatbuilding Training College in Lowestoft to gain my qualification to become an independent Marine Surveyor, more than 15 years later and I am still enjoying my work.

Marine surveyors can be employed to survey, or value everything from small craft to so called mega yachts, or small commercial ships, tugs, trawlers etc, of varying types and sizes. Our job essentially is to ensure that the vessel is fit for purpose and is in a suitable and sea, or river worthy condition.

Experienced small craft marine surveyors should be able to survey not only the hulls of such vessels but also their engines, generators, electrical, gas and interior domestic systems.  I work on wooden, steel, GRP & concrete boats.

Types of survey

• Pre-purchase survey
• Insurance survey
• Hull only survey
• Steel plating survey

Why use a Marine Survyor?

A marine surveyor is often employed during the purchase of a privately owned boat, either a for private sale or via Broker, to provide an independent report of the structure or hull, mechanical, electrical & domestic systems.

Who does the Marine Surveyor work for?

I work for the buyer.  You may be recommended a Marine Surveyor by a friend or family member who has used one themselves, recommendation is always good.  If you are buying via a Broker, they should be able to provide you with a list of Surveyors to choose from.  The Broker should not be recommending a Surveyor, it is very important that the Surveyor is working independently for you.

What can I expect from my Marine Surveyor?

The most common type of survey is an out of the water, pre purchase survey.  If the boat is already in the water when you agree to buy, the boatyard will arrange for a lift out.  I will then attend at a pre-arranged time and inspect the hull, engine & test all systems.  During the inspection the I will make lots of notes, take numerous photographs and in some cases sample of oil/fluids.  At the end of the survey, the boat will then be re-launched and the engine run.

I will then complete a complex report of my findings, this is usually many pages long and will include the photographs that I has taken.  I will also flag up any points that have cause for major concern, and make a list of other, usually less serious observations, as ‘advisories’.  Please note, full reports can take some time to complete – this will normally be emailed to you within 2-3 working days.  After you have received your report, I am very happy to go through this with you to explain any points that I have raised.

There are several types of Surveys & Inspections – please ask and I will be happy to discuss the best course of action with you.