Why should I have a vessel surveyed?
To determine the value and condition of the vessel in question. Most insurance companies and banks require a current survey in order to finance and/or insure the vessel. You also need to know the condition and fair market value, to make an educated decision, before you purchase any boat. However, the most important reason to survey your vessel is for the safety of your passengers and crew.
Why survey a new boat?
A pre-purchase evaluation of a new boat should take place prior to taking delivery and making final payment. I will look for any problems, and help to correct them before you take delivery of the vessel. I will look for problems in all areas of the vessel. The basic procedure is the same as with a pre-purchase survey on a used vessel and can include a sea trial if you want. I can assure you that problems are fixed much faster at the dealers boatyard, before you take delivery. Once the boat is at your dock, it can take much longer to fix any problems that arise.
A pre-purchase survey of a new vessel can save you a lot of time, money, and trouble.
What do you look for?
During a C and V survey, the overall condition of the vessel is examined. This includes such items as structural integrity, machinery, navigation, heating ventilation and air conditioning, and ground tackle. It also includes the following systems: electrical, propulsion, fuel, steering, all water and electronics. The interior and exterior finish and overall maintenance of the vessel are also checked. During the out of water inspection, the hull, both above and below the water line, is checked for blisters, delamination, and damage. The vessels running gear including rudders, cutlass bearings, lower units, trim tabs, props, thru-hulls, transducers, scoops, screens, zincs, shafts and struts will be closely examined.
What standards are used?
I reference standards by ABYC, NFPA, and USCG in all of my surveys. Your report will also include a vessel condition, fair market value, and replacement statements. Remember, I work for you! Any information I gather are for you and any third parties that you are working with (banks and insurance companys). I will never release any information without your authorization.
My reports are professional, easy to read and clearly written. They are accepted worldwide by all financial and insurance institutions.
How do you determine market value?
Many factors, including condition of vessel, market the vessel is being bought in, and time of year affect value. I use BUC book used boat price guide, N.A.D.A. marine appraisal guide, Power Boat Guide, and many on line resources to determine that market value.
What is oil analysis?
Oil analysis involves sampling and analyzing oil for various properties and materials to monitor wear and contamination in an engine, transmission or generator. Sampling and analyzing on a regular basis establishes a baseline of normal wear and can help indicate when abnormal wear or contamination is occurring.
Oil analysis works like this. Oil that has been inside any moving mechanical apparatus for a period of time reflects the exact condition of that assembly. Oil is in contact with engine or mechanical components as wear metallic trace particles enter the oil. These particles are so small they remain in suspension. Many products of the combustion process also will become trapped in circulating oil. The oil becomes a working history of the machine.
Particles caused by normal wear and operation will mix with the oil. Any externally caused contamination also enters the oil. By identifying and measuring these impurities, you get an indication of the rate of wear and of any excessive contamination. An oil analysis also will suggest methods to reduce accelerated wear and contamination.
The typical oil analysis test for the presence of a number of different materials to determine sources of wear, find dirt and other contamination, and even check for the use of appropriate lubricants.
To learn more, see this link: http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/whatisoilanalysis.htm
Do I need to attend the survey?
You are always welcome to attend the survey, but it is not necessary. If you do plan to attend, keep in mind that it is an all day affair and can be very hard to follow me everywhere I have to go. I am here to help you as much as possible, so remember, no question is too small or stupid. If there is something you want to know, don't hesitate to ask.
How do I schedule a survey?
Thats easy...call me or e-mail me. We can determine what type of survey you need and schedule it to meet your time requirements.
