If you’re getting ready to purchase a boat, you’ll want to make sure you have the best possible information about it before investing your money. One way to do that is to hire a marine surveyor 32084. But what if a previous owner already had a survey done? Is it okay to use that one when buying a boat?
The answer is, usually not. Although there are some exceptions, typically you should not rely on old surveys. This is because surveys from a marine surveyor 32084 are simply a snapshot of the condition of the boat at the time the survey is done. A lot can happen within a few days. That is why you need a fresh survey.
Surveys can be performed every year or even more often to make sure the boat is in good condition and poses no risk to new owners. Since parts on boats wear and tear over time, older surveys may not provide detailed enough information about the current condition of the boat.
At Suncoast Marine Surveying, we recommend hiring a marine surveyor to perform a new survey before purchasing any boat. A marine surveyor will have the expertise and experience necessary to properly assess the boat’s condition, safety, and value.
A professional marine surveyor will provide insight into areas of a boat’s structure that you might not expect. This includes the hidden structural components below the waterline, rigging, fuel system, propulsion system, sea water systems, electrical systems, navigation equipment, steering and control systems, interior systems, and machinery on board. They can also inspect fire protection systems, CO2 detectors, and heat alarms as well as recommend repairs or replacements where necessary.
For example, when you review a survey from a previous owner, it may indicate that the hull is in sound condition. However, when you hire a new marine surveyor, they can conduct an underwater hull inspection and detect issues that would not be visible by only looking at the hull above water.
It is important to remember that the purpose of a survey is to give buyers peace of mind that their purchase will be everything they are expecting it to be. Marine surveyors can help ensure that the vessel in question meets all regulatory safety requirements and is safe for navigation and use. As a result, having a current survey done by a qualified surveyor is always recommended.
When considering a used vessel purchase, don’t be tempted to save money by relying on an old survey. Make sure you get a fresh assessment from a certified pro like Suncoast Marine Surveying. That is the only way you will be able to protect yourself from potential problems down the road. Getting an expert opinion from an independent marine surveyor can give you an independent perspective on the condition of your prospective vessel, giving you greater confidence in the purchase decision and the safety of your investment.
