A C & V survey is often required by insurance companies at intervals to assess the condition value and safety of the vessel. The survey will also show that the vessel is well suited and appropriately equipped for its intended purpose. The survey is also intended for parties underwriting the vessel as well as financial institutions. One looking to purchase a vessel may want this survey to determine if the vessel is worth purchasing. The survey may also show potential problems or repairs that need to be made to the vessel.

Appraisal

Appraisals are often required for estate settlements, court cases and tax purposes. An appraisal survey is usually not as comprehensive as a condition and value survey. I would then use value guides, comparable vessels that have been recently sold or are currently for sale to determine a fair market value for the vessel.

What I Am Searching For In Your Boats Survey?

A boat is in many cases as important as ones home. I believe in a thorough inspection of the entire boat to detect potential safety hazards and problems. I start by surveying the boat from the bottom up. I survey the boats bottom with percussive sounding and a moisture meter to look for moisture intrusions, delamination or core rot in the boats structure. This will also include bulkheads were accessible. I also inspect all thru hull fitting for signs of leakage or corrosion. I also inspect all the boats running gear shafts props struts trim tabs for potential hazards and problems. I then inspect the rest of the exterior of the boat layup for Moisture problems, lose hardware among other things. I then inspect all of the boats mechanical propulsion systems, steering system, ballast pumping systems,Grey water systems,sanitation systems, AC and DC electrical system, fuel systems, fires suppression systems, auxiliary safety equipment, grounding tackle . I am looking that all the boats systems are in working order and do not pose a safety hazard to the vessel or its occupants . The interior of the vessel will also be inspected. I do non destructive inspection that do not involve dismantling or removing parts of the vessel.

Standards Used In Marine Surveys Conclusions

  • United States Coast Guard (USCG) under the authority of title 46 United States Code (USC) Title 33; and Title 46 of Code of Federal Regulations (CFR);
  • Standards set fourth by the American Boat and Yacht Council
  • Standards set fourth by the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA)
  • Standards set fourth by Navtech

Marine Survey Preparation

Does the owner or representative need to present for the survey of the vessel?. One is not required to be present for the vessels survey. I do encourage that the vessels owner be present to address there questions or concerns about the vessel. If the vessel is in the water make appropriate arrangements for the vessel to be hauled out and bottom washed prior to the survey. Please do not hose or power wash the vessel on the day of the survey. I ask that vessel be accessible as possible please leave doors, drawers and cupboards, and access hatches unlocked. Please make available the boats registration and documentation. This will make the survey of the vessel go smoothly.

About Your Marine Surveyor

I have have worked on boats my entire career. I started as first mate on a Lake Michigan charter fishing boat. Next I became a USCG licensed captain. I then pursued a career in surveying vessels. I have participated in the several boat restorations projects. The projects included rebuilding some of the boats super structure, as well as restoring a fiberglass bottom that was in poor condition. I have also rebuilt several marine engines.

Locations Generally Served

Lake Michigan lake shore area spanning as far north as Algoma Wisconsin to as far south as Waukegan Illinois. I also conduct surveys throughout many of Wisconsins inland lakes and rivers.

Phone:920-207-7000

Mailing Address
Certified Marine Surveys
533 Western Avenue
Plymouth Wisconsin 53073