Services

This is the most extensive type of condition and value survey and is strongly advised when purchasing a new or used vessel. This type of survey can also be used for financing and insuring a vessel. A pre-purchase survey not only protects the financial institutions but also protects the purchaser’s investment. The structural integrity of the vessel's hull, decks, and superstructure are all thoroughly inspected, as well as the cosmetic appearance. The vessel's systems (such as the propulsion, electrical, fuel, navigation, sanitation, safety, and communication systems) and the maintenance condition are assessed. Examination can be conducted by many different non-destructive means including, visual examination, percussive sounding, moisture metering, and infrared thermal imaging to find voids, delamination, water in the hull, or rotten core. It is highly recommended to perform a sea trial and a haul out for bottom and running gear inspection. While a haul out is not mandatory with a pre-purchase survey, insurance companies usually require it. Engine diagnostic tests and oil analysis can be performed upon request. A complete hull and engine survey will help to determine the condition and estimated value of a boat so that an informed decision on a purchase can be made.

An insurance survey is a limited condition and value survey which is performed so that the insurance underwriter can assess whether the vessel is an acceptable risk for its intended use. This survey will not approach the level of a pre-purchase survey and is not for the purpose of making a purchase decision. The primary focus is to identify the vessel, its structural integrity, equipment, overall condition, and general value without testing full system operation. It also seeks to identify hazardous conditions that pose safety risks to the vessel and its passengers. An assessment of vessel safety equipment as per the U.S. Coast Guard federal requirements is performed. Insurance companies may require an out of the water inspection as a condition of coverage. 

Engine diagnostic tests are highly recommended to have full insight into the vessel and engine condition. The computerized engine diagnostics connects to the Electronic Control Module (ECM) of outboard and inboard, gas and diesel engines, and will retrieve all engine data and provide valuable information regarding the engines’ history. Some of this data will include actual engine hours, the RPM run history to understand how the engines have been operated during their life, current engine fault codes, and historic fault codes. Engines with low hours can have just as many problems as old engines. The condition of the hoses, belts, and fuel lines are also thoroughly checked. Motor mounts are inspected, the engine is monitored for any fluid leaks, exhaust smoke is gauged, and engine temperature readings are recorded. An engine survey is very comprehensive and can discover hidden issues that would save boat owners significant repair costs.

I use the FLIR E76 which is the latest thermal camera on the market. Thermal imaging can detect infrared variations in temperature that cannot be detected by the human eye. Hull moisture intrusion, rotten core, blisters, cracks, layup voids, delamination, previous repairs, as well as overheating engines, exhaust leaks, mechanical friction problems, and electrical issues can be determined with a FLIR thermal camera. It is non-invasive and great for preventative maintenance of mechanical parts before major frictional damage is done. This imaging will assist clients in a full understanding of the vessel’s condition. Infrared thermography scans are included with any engine, electrical, or hull surveys at no additional charge.

A sea trial is conducted to determine if the vessel performs well on the water. A basic engine, steering, throttle, and shift control inspection is conducted. The engine is observed for cruising RPMs and wide-open throttle RPMs per the engine manufacturer specifications. If the engine is not performing properly or a problem is detected, a repair recommendation is provided. Sea trials are included at no additional charge.

An oil analysis can help determine any abnormal metal wear of pistons, rings, and cylinders and if contaminants like fuel, coolant, raw water, or dirt are present that shorten the life of engines, transmissions, and generators. This information can reveal developing problems, a blown head gasket, or a leaking exhaust manifold. A small oil sample will be drawn into a clean container, which is sealed and shipped to a laboratory for analysis. The report will be emailed to the client usually within 3 business days of the sample collection.