We get asked a lot of questions about boat surveys and what they entail, as well as what kind of benefits they offer to owners. So, we’re going to take a closer look at the importance of marine surveys and explain why your new boat really does need one.
First things first; what exactly is a marine survey? Well, it is a comprehensive check-up for boats, the equivalent of you getting a roadworthy certificate for a motor vehicle. It is designed to identify existing problems, highlight areas of weakness that could turn into future issues, and give a detailed picture of overall health of the vessel. It is also may be a requirement for insurers. In order to get a reliable valuation, you’ll first need a professional survey.
This guide to the most important reasons to invest in a marine survey will tell you everything that you need to know.
To Get an Unbiased Assessment
If you are thinking about buying a second-hand boat, the current owners may not be aware of any existing problems, if there are any. This is why a marine survey is so important. It should be carried out as a condition of a purchase, and prior to settlement.
The marine surveyor should be given the opportunity to assess all aspects of the vessel – structural, rigging, plumbing, electrical systems, mechanical components – both on and off the water. The results of the report will tell you whether the boat has any key weaknesses and, ultimately, whether it represents the price you are paying for the vessel. Listen carefully to the feedback, because your surveyor is unbiased and independent.
To Get an Insurance Valuation
The vast majority of marine insurers require a full survey to be carried out before they will insure a pre-owned vessel. You can’t accurately value a boat without scrutinising it first. If you are planning to purchase a catamaran we recommend to do a thorough due diligence.
At the end of a marine survey, you’ll know whether there are any major or minor defects or repairs to be made, how much this will cost, and more accurately, how much the boat is worth. This is all vital information and you can use it to determine whether the boat is good value and what you may have to provision in years ahead for upkeep. Remember that a pre-owned boat is not a new boat, so some issues that may be raised by the surveyor may be reflected in the purchase price. If the purchase price reflects the costs to correct these defects, it can still be a great buy.
To Protect Your Investment
Buying a boat – even one of the smaller vessels – is a big step. It is a huge investment and it should be well thought through. You wouldn’t buy a house without a thorough building inspection, and the same should apply to your boat. Your sales consultant (if accredited) like Multihull Solutions consultants, will be your best advisor during these processes.
At Multihull Solutions, we can give you an ocean of advice and information, but it is ultimately up to you to make a decision on which boat best suits your needs. We understand that it can be tempting to be in a hurry to get out on the water faster, but the safety of your money (deposits, title, settlements) future enjoyment and passengers safety depends on you choosing to follow a sensible and informed approach. For more information, get in touch with the team at Multihull Solutions.