If you are an aspiring or a new boat owner, one of the questions you might find yourself asking is this; what is the purpose of a marine surveyor in Cape Coral? The simple answer is to help you identify any flaws the vessel may have, determine its value and get a detailed history of the vessel. There are situations where you may be forced to work with a marine surveyor. This is more so when you need boat insurance or when using your vessel as collateral when applying for a loan. As a boat buyer, working with a surveyor will help you avoid being shortchanged.
Now that we have answered the question of what is the purpose of a marine surveyor, let’s take a look at the steps that are involved in a typical boat survey. Needless to say, the exact steps of a marine survey may vary depending on the type of vessel being surveyed and the scope of the survey. Generally, the following are the key steps that are involved.
- Pre-survey planning: Before the survey, the boat surveyor will gather information about the vessel. This includes information age, size, and intended use, as well as any specific concerns or issues that need to be addressed. The surveyor may also review any relevant documents, such as the vessel’s registration, maintenance records, and insurance policy.
- Visual inspection: Once the basic information has been gathered, the surveyor will proceed with a visual inspection of the boat. This will be done both while the vessel is on and off the water. The objective will be to assess the condition of the hull, deck, superstructure, and other structural components. The surveyor also checks for signs of damage, corrosion, and wear and tear.
- Systems inspection: Part of a marine survey is to make sure all the onboard systems are working perfectly. The surveyor will thus inspect the systems such as the electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems to ensure they are in good working order and meet safety standards.
- Sea trial: Sea trials are an added service. While they are not mandatory, they can be priceless when buying a used boat. The goal is to test the boat’s performance and handling under normal operating conditions. The surveyor will check the steering, propulsion, and navigation systems among other things.
- Documentation review: The best thing about working with a marine surveyor when buying a pre-owned boat is you will avoid all possibilities of being swindled. During a survey, the surveyor will review relevant documentation including the vessel’s registration, title, and maintenance records. They do so to ensure they are up-to-date and accurate.
- Reporting and recommendations: Once the inspection is over, the surveyor will provide a detailed report outlining any issues or concerns. The report will also include recommendations for repairs, maintenance, or upgrades to improve the vessel’s safety, performance, and value.
As you can see, the role of a marine surveyor is indispensable. The rule of thumb is to find a marine surveyor in Cape Coral that is not only experienced but also with an impeccable track record.