If you are new to boating, the process of buying a boat and getting a survey performed may seem daunting. The first thing a marine surveyor Naples will tell you is that buying a boat is not like any other purchase. There are certain steps that have to be followed in order to achieve the desired outcomes. There are several mistakes newbies make which end up turning the experience less pleasurable. Here is what you should do when getting ready for a marine survey.
The first thing you have to do is decide on the boat that you want. Review the service history to ensure it is within the manufacturer’s recommendations. If you don’t understand the paperwork you can consult a marine surveyor Naples or a mechanic. Once you are okay about buying the specific boat, you need to request a contract of sale from the buyer before making a deposit. Once you and the seller agree to the terms, you can make a deposit. Most sellers require that you make a deposit of about 5 to 10 percent in order to initiate the process of a boat survey.
Contact a Surveyor
In most cases, hiring a boat surveyor is as simple as calling and setting a date. You can complete an online form which helps the surveyor organize the rest of the survey for you. Find a surveyor that offers a full boat survey process including a comprehensive report upon request. It is also good to ask the surveyor how much the service will cost and how long it will take.
What About Slipping?
Also known as hard-standing, slipping is the process of removing the boat from the water for an inspection or repair. For a complete inspection, it is normal practice for a boat to be ‘slipped’. This helps check the underwater components as well as clean the bottom of the boat. The vessel is then put back into the water for a sea trial. Slipping is often required in order for a pre-purchase report to be accepted by a majority of insurance providers. It is also necessary when you are buying a used boat. It is normal practice for a buyer to pay for both slipping and cleaning of the hull. It is okay for slipping and sea trial to be done separately if the survey has to be done over a period of more than one day.
In addition to hiring the best marine surveyor Naples for the job, the second most important thing you should do is attend the boat survey process. This enables you to ask all the questions you want and for you to help the surveyor perform a thorough inspection. You must, however, remember to stay out of the way of the surveyor. Don’t be a distraction.