Pre-Purchase Surveys

Buying a boat can be one of the most exciting events in life. 

With such a significant financial commitment comes the responsibility of making a good choice. 

A Pre-purchase survey will closely exmine the boat and advise you of her condition and potential liabilities. 

A Pre-purchase survey is the most comprehensive survey undertaken.  The survey will examine the craft in some detail and provide an opinion based on the tests carried out.

The report sets out to:

1. Provide you with the technical information you need in order to make an informed decision
2. Satisfy you that the boat you are buying is as described by the owner or Broker
3. To provide you with advice and good practice about some of the major maintenace and safety issues that could arise
4. To satisfy the Insurers that the craft is in good order

The Hull and Deck

Signs of damage, faults within the laminate, indications of osmosis

The Keel

Integrity of the keel and security of fitment to the hull

Through-Hull Fittings and Seacocks

Security of fitment, signs of degredation and operation

Steering Gear - Tiller/Wheel, connections and rudder

Security within fixings and operation

Propultion - Engine (installation, not running), propeller shaft, stern gland, propeller, fuel storage and supply

Security on mounting frame, condition of hoses and cabling, watertightness of stern gland, signs of corrosion  and wear of shaft bearings

Electrics - Batteries, cabling, charging, shore-power

Condition and security of fitment, security of cabling, AC protection and charging arrangements (not usually tested more detailed assessment would fall within a Sea Trial Survey)

Electronics - Navigation, VHF Radio, instruments

Basic operation (more detailed assessment would fall within a Sea Trial Survey)

Rigging and Sails - Mast, spars, standing and running rigging

Condition and indications of corrosion and failure

Deck Fittings - Cleats, stanchions, guardrails, portlights and hatches

Security and signs of corrosion and leakage

Domestic Systems - Water storage and supply, toilets, heating, refrigeration

Security and signs of leakage and corrosion

LPG - Installation

Compared with accepted good practice (gas tightness is not tested)

Safety - Anchors, flares, jackstays, firefighting equipment

Condidtion and date for use

What Floats Your Boat Marine Surveys will carry out the survey to the best of our ability and within the limitation of access and reasonable tests available. Surveyors carry out non-destructive tests in sample areas and cannot guarantee that latent faults or those that are not reasonably accessible will be noted.

It should be noted that a sea trial should be requested of the owner or Broker in order to assess the engine in use and the electronic instruments. Also, that the survey does not provide nor ensure compliance with BSS requirements.

See Terms and Conditions for a more full explanation of limitations