Pre-Purchase & Valuation survey

This is the most comprehensive type of inspection, and is strongly advised when purchasing a new or used vessel. Condition and overall operation of the vessel should be examined. This covers structural integrity, electrical systems, the propulsion system, the fuel system, other machinery, navigation equipment, miscellaneous on-board systems, cosmetic appearance, electronics, and overall maintenance as well as an out of water inspection. On some occasions, a sea trial is included, but at extra cost. An appraisal of the vessel's fair market value and replacement cost is included.

A Pre-Purchase & Valuation survey also includes inspection out of water and at sea trial with the additional appraisal of the vessel's cosmetic appearance. The Pre-purchase survey commonly pays for itself by pointing out conditions or deficiencies unknown to the seller and the buyer that can be rectified/negotiated prior to purchase.

Great details on extent and seriousness of existing problems and on suggested repairs. Nevertheless, some limitations of this type of survey do exist. For instance, most surveyors will not assess engine condition beyond what is visible externally or ascertainable from operation. Additionally, most surveyors will not assess sail condition in detail. Electronic gear, sails etc. that have been removed for winter storage may not be inspected. Surveyors will note poor construction practices where visible (absence of bolts through toe rail and hull deck joint, absence of backing blocks for hardware, hardware of insufficient size, etc.), but cannot be expected to discover hidden flaws that have not yet caused problems (poor glue, absence of edge-to-edge fastenings in strip planking, etc.)

This survey covers the following:

• Hull, Deck, & Structure
• Machinery Installations
• Fuel, Exhaust, Electrical Systems
• USCG-Mandated Safety Gear
• Moisture content analysis
• Rigging, Running and Standing
• Sea Trials & Operational Test of Systems
• Propulsion Systems