The first question almost every new boat owner asks is this; what is the purpose of a marine surveyor in Jacksonville? The simple answer is to assist you in identifying any potential faults, estimating the boat’s value, and learning its full history. In some circumstances, you might be forced to collaborate with a marine surveyor especially if you need boat insurance or want to use your boat as collateral for a loan. For buyers, working with a surveyor will help avoid being swindled.
With the question of what is the purpose of a marine surveyor answered, let’s take a look at the procedures that are involved in a typical boat survey. Depending on the type of vessel being surveyed and the scope of the survey, the precise procedures of a marine survey may change. Generally, the following are the main steps that are involved.
- Planning: The first step in a survey involves gathering data on the vessel. The surveyor will collect information relating to the boat’s size, age, and planned use as well as any particular issues that need to be resolved. The surveyor may also look over any pertinent paperwork, including the insurance policy, maintenance logs, and registration of the vessel.
- Visual inspection: The surveyor will now get started on the visual inspection of the boat. This may be carried out both on and off the water. Evaluation of the hull, deck, superstructure and other structural elements will be the main focus. The boat surveyor will look for corrosion, wear and tear, and any indicators of deterioration.
- System inspection: A marine survey includes ensuring all the onboard systems are flawlessly functional. The surveyor will inspect all onboard systems including the electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems.
- Sea trial: While not mandatory, a sea trial may be requested. While it will be an added cost, sea trials are invaluable for boat buyers. They help evaluate the boat’s handling and performance under typical operating conditions. The steering, propulsion, and navigation systems will all be examined by the surveyor.
- Documentation review: The grand beauty of engaging a marine surveyor in Jacksonville when purchasing a used boat is being able to eliminate any chances of being exploited. During a survey, the surveyor will look over pertinent paperwork such as the vessel’s registration, title, and maintenance records. They do this to make sure they are accurate and current.
- Reporting: At the end of the survey, the surveyor will deliver a thorough report identifying any problems or issues they found. The report will also contain advice on what should be fixed, maintained, or upgraded to increase the vessel’s performance, value, and safety.
As you can see, working with a marine surveyor in Jacksonville is invaluable. You just need to find a competent surveyor that has a great track record and experience inspecting vessels similar to yours.
What is the Purpose of a Marine Surveyor
