A boat surveyor Palm Beach is a specialist that has been certified to perform a boat inspection. They work for the hiring party. What this means is if the buyer hires a surveyor, the surveyor will be accountable to the buyer and vice versa if the seller hires the surveyor. The hiring party is also responsible for paying the surveyor. If you plan on hiring a surveyor, there are a couple of things you need to know.
Who to hire
There are many surveyors you can reach out to. Not all of them are certified. Some will offer big promises and deliver mediocre services. To avoid surprises, choose a boat surveyor Palm Beach that has significant experience inspecting boats that are similar to yours. The right surveyor will also be willing to speak to you to answer basic questions, provide references as well as supply samples of past surveys to help you gauge their competence. You should, however, not expect a surveyor to answer specific questions without first assessing your boat. You should also not expect the surveyor to tear components apart to have a look inside. That is the work of a mechanic or electrician.
Before hiring a marine surveyor in Palm Beach, you should speak to at least three surveyors. This will help you know the kind of services that various surveyors offer and help you pick the one that is the best fit. At times, based on the type of survey you need, you may end up needing the services of more than one type of surveyor.
What is inspected
Knowing what the boat surveyor will be inspecting can help you be at peace throughout the survey. The first thing your surveyor will do is find and note the Hull Identification Number (HIN) as well as the federal registration marks. A routine inspection will include the following:
- Taking moisture readings in the deck and hull
- Checking for blistering or delamination
- Inspecting the transom, bulkheads and stringers
- Reviewing the electrical systems and wiring
- Reviewing and testing the plumbing
- Checking the condition of underwater gear such as propellers, struts and shafts
- Checking key fasteners like structural bolts
- Fuel system inspection
The marine surveyor will make an inventory of all his findings. You will get a list of required safety gear depending on the type and size of your boat. If the boat comes with a trailer, the trailer will be reviewed thoroughly to ensure it is the right size for your boat.
There is a lot that goes into a boat survey. The best thing you can do is give the boat surveyor Palm Beach ample time and space to do their work. You should also not expect the surveyor to help with the negotiations. The surveyor is only there for a thorough assessment of your boat.