Types of Survey

Types of Survey

This is the most comprehensive type of survey. It provides a thorough and independent expert opinion covering every possible aspect of the vessel from structure and fittings to mechanical installations, rigging, and systems. Items covered include:

Bilge pumps; Cathodic protection; Davits, boarding ladders & accesses; Decks, deck equipment; Electrical installations; Equipment levels; Fastenings; Fire-fighting equipment; Fresh water systems; Fuel tanks & pipework; Gas systems; Ground tackle; Guard & hand rails; Hatches & openings; Hull bottom coating; Machinery; Mast, rigging & sails; Moisture readings; Plumbing; Rudders & hangings; Safety equipment; Shafts & couplings; Skin fittings / sea cocks; Steering gear; Stern gear; Stern glands; Superstructure; Toilet installations; Ventilation systems; Windows & portlights.

A valuation can be included at no extra cost if requested at the time of booking.

Full Condition Survey / Pre-purchase Survey

In the case of older yachts sometimes insurance companies request a survey to ensure the vessel is an acceptable risk. The insurance condition survey/structural survey is less detailed than the full condition survey and is designed to satisfy most insurer’s needs. It covers structure, hull fittings, masts and rigging, and mechanical installations.

Insurance Condition Survey

Covers the underwater area, fixtures and fittings only (including stern gear)

Moisture analysis can be included for an extra charge.

Hull Outer Bottom Survey

Covers all the systems (and their testing where possible) within the vessel. This includes: engine(s); stern gear; fuel systems; gas systems; electrical systems; bilge pumping systems; water/sewage systems and safety equipment.

Does not include an internal examination of the engine but a visual check of the installation can provide a good indication whether an engine has been well installed and maintained, and can provide an indication of possible problems that may require the attention of a suitably qualified marine engineer.

Mechanical Installation Survey

A sea trial allows a complete evaluation of engines, rig, steering, instruments and vessel performance under working conditions. It also allows other systems to be checked for operation, e.g. water/sewage, and other critical items such as hull valves and stern glands, which cannot be checked with the vessel ashore. A sea trial is always recommended for power craft.

A sea trial can be booked as a standalone procedure, or as part of a pre-purchase or machinery installations survey.

Sea Trials

Banks and finance companies usually require a valuation if you are borrowing money to purchase a vessel. An opinion of value will be given based on available market data and the vessels condition.

Valuations/Survey for Finance

Any of the above surveys can be tailored to suit a client’s particular needs. Please call to discuss your requirements.

Much less detailed survey than the Full Condition Survey, this gives a general overview of the overall condition of the vessel. It will not identify defects other than those which are clearly evident. It will not normally look into lockers and bilges, etc. It will include an inventory of equipment but will not comment on condition of the equipment. Does not include an osmosis check. A Valuation will be given free of charge if requested at time of booking.

Ideal if there are a number of boats you are interested in but don’t want to travel to see all of them. Cost can be offset against a Full Condition Survey if you decide to go ahead with the purchase.

General Condition Survey

Jeremy Snelling Marine Surveys Limited

Yacht & Small Craft Surveys