The first question aspiring boat owners ask is whether they need the services of marine surveyors Naples Fl or not. Of course, hiring a surveyor is an added expense. It thus makes sense why some people would want to avoid getting a survey. The truth, however, is a marine survey will save you a lot more than it costs.
After finding the boat you want to buy, you must ensure that it is in perfect condition. You want to ensure all the systems are working, all the equipment is on board, and the vessel is in perfect condition. If you have never owned a similar boat before, you will not be able to tell what is missing and what is not working. Most of the damages on a used boat are also hidden. To get a clearer picture of what you are buying, you need the input of a professional who is trained and experienced in inspecting vessels like the one you are considering. This is where the input of marine surveyors Naples Fl trusts comes in.
A marine survey, often referred to as a pre-purchase survey, involves a professional boat surveyor giving your target boat a thorough inspection. The surveyor will test every system onboard, create a list of missing items, list the damages that ought to be repaired, and give a fair market value. All this information is contained in a survey report. Pictures will also be included. It is not a surveyor’s job to advise you on whether to buy or not to buy a boat. Instead, their role is to give you a comprehensive and unbiased review of your prospective purchase.
Types of marine surveys
Many types of surveys are done. Here are the four main ones:
- Insurance survey
This is the most basic type of marine survey. It is done to give a general overview of the boat’s condition. In most cases, an insurance provider will provide a list of items that ought to be inspected in the survey.
- Finance survey
A finance survey is similar to an insurance survey. The only difference is that it is done to determine the actual value of a boat that will be used as collateral for a loan.
- Pre- or post-transport survey
This survey aims to assess the overall condition of a boat before or after it has been transported. It is done for insurance purposes.
- Full condition survey
This is the most comprehensive type of marine survey. It delves deeper into the boat’s condition. The surveyor will check everything from the safety systems and electronics to the vessel’s structural integrity. Different boats have different requirements. The marine surveyors in Naples Fl that you work with should have experience inspecting vessels similar to the one you are considering.