Pre-Purchase Surveys

Condition and value before you commit to a boat

A pre-purchase survey is the most comprehensive of the standard marine surveys and is strongly advised when purchasing a new or used vessel.

The purpose is to gather as much useful information as possible about the boat’s condition before purchase. I examine the accessible structure and systems, identify findings that need attention, and report on the vessel’s condition and value to help you make an informed decision.

What the survey includes

The survey normally includes:

• Inspection of the topsides, hull, cabin and normally accessible interior areas.
• Examination of visible structural components.
• A haul-out inspection of the hull bottom, running gear and rudder or rudders.
• Inspection and operational checks of fuel, steering, electrical, sanitation, electronics and safety systems within the agreed scope.
• A sea trial to evaluate the vessel’s overall performance.
• Review of available vessel documentation, hull identification numbers and service records.
• Current market and replacement valuations.

Inspection of rigging and sails can also be included where appropriate. We’ll discuss whether specialist rigging, sail or mechanical inspections are needed for the particular boat.

For a more detailed list, see Items Inspected and Reported on a Marine Survey.

Understanding the findings

The report should help you understand what needs attention and why. Safety findings, repairs affecting the boat’s use, and routine maintenance do not all carry the same weight when deciding how to proceed.

Some findings may call for further testing or specialist investigation. Areas that cannot be accessed, and equipment that cannot be operated during the survey, need to be understood as limitations of the inspection.

Read how to interpret yacht survey findings.

Arranging the survey

Send me the boat’s make, model, year, length and location, together with your intended purchase timetable. We can discuss the scope, access, haul-out and sea-trial arrangements, and any additional inspections worth arranging.

See the survey preparation checklist.

Discuss the boat you are considering

Contact me early enough to arrange the inspection and any follow-up work before your purchase deadline.