Every few years, many insurance companies require a survey to make sure that your boat is in good condition. This survey is performed to ensure that the vessel is not prone to major damage. A good and competent marine surveyor can help you complete the survey promptly. However, a bad one can cause you to incur additional expenses and delays in the renewal of the insurance policy. This is why it’s important to find a reputable company such as Southern Divers to work with.
It is up to the boat owner to prepare for hull surveys and repairs. Below are some tips to get ready.
1. Make a Good Impression
Make sure that your vessel’s exterior is in good condition to stand out from the rest of the fleet. Also, get rid of anything that could mar the overall look of the boat.
2. Remove Extraneous Items
Some items are important to keep in mind when it comes to keeping the boat running smoothly. For instance, you should usually remove anything that can obstruct the path of the diesel engine. Have the vessel tidy so the surveyor can easily do their inspection.
3. Allow Easy Access
Be sure to have all cabins open and easily accessible to the surveyors. You should also have the diesel and water tanks readily accessible to make the process go smoothly.
4. Have Equipment List Handy
Before the survey, make a list of the things that are most important to you when it comes to preparing the boat for insurance. This list should include the items that are most likely to make the vessel seaworthy or provide value.
5. Know Pertinent Boat Information
Before the survey, the marine surveyor should also know the make and model of the boat, as well as the various technical specifications related to the various components of the vessel.
6. Be Forthcoming About Recent Changes
Tell your surveyor beforehand if there have been any recent upgrades or changes. Things to address may include getting a new anchor chain, upgrading the cockpit enclosure or having the winter heads replaced.
7. Keep Surveyor Safe
If you know beforehand that something on your hull or boat is not operational or can pose a safety hazard, be sure to let the workers know before they begin the survey. If your boat is older, make sure there are no leaks. Look for signs of water damage or intrusion.
8. Have Boat Hull Ready for Inspection
For some boats, you will need to have it out of the water before the survey can be completed. Some surveyors will require the bottom to be clean before the inspection can take place. In this case, you may need to pressure wash the hull beforehand.
Your hull inspection will be thorough. This inspection involves inspecting the structural integrity of a vessel, such as its bottom structure and the inside. It also involves checking the various systems and components of the ship. For example, the surveyors will be looking at the electronics, air conditioning units, interior areas, safety gear, generators and more. Most importantly, they will be ensuring the hull and deck are safe and free of any damage or water intrusion.
Author’s Bio: Lisa Eclesworth is a notable and influential lifestyle writer. She is a mom of two and a successful homemaker. She loves to cook and create beautiful projects with her family. She writes informative and fun articles that her readers love and enjoy. You can directly connect with her on email – lisa@lisaeclesworth.com or visit her website www.lisaeclesworth.com