The Pre-Purchase Survey

A pre-purchase survey is the most comprehensive type of marine survey available. Think of it as combining a home inspection, mechanical evaluation, and road test all in one – but with the added complexities of a marine environment. It’s a full-day process that includes three main components: a detailed inspection of systems and structure, an out-of-water examination of the hull and underwater gear, and a sea trial to evaluate performance.

Yet many buyers eager to complete their purchase either skip this crucial step or don’t fully understand what they’re paying for. As your surveyor, my role is to provide you with an unbiased, thorough assessment of your potential vessel’s condition, value, and safety.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what happens when you book a pre-purchase survey with me, from the initial scheduling to the final report. You’ll learn what to expect at each stage, how to prepare, and most importantly, how to use the findings to make an informed decision about your purchase.

Why You Need a Pre-Purchase Survey – Understanding The Purpose

The primary purposes of a pre-purchase survey are:

Valuation and Negotiation

• Determines the fair market value of the vessel
• Identifies issues that may affect the purchase price
• Provides documented evidence for price negotiations
• Helps you understand potential immediate and future costs

Safety Assessment

• Evaluates all safety systems and equipment
• Identifies any potentially hazardous conditions
• Checks compliance with current safety regulations
• Reviews previous repair work and modifications

Insurance Requirements

• Provides the detailed report required by insurance companies
• Documents the vessel’s current condition
• Identifies required upgrades for coverage
• Helps establish appropriate insurance values

Financing Support

• Supplies documentation often required by lenders
• Confirms the vessel’s value for loan purposes
• Identifies any serious issues that could affect financing
• Provides evidence of the vessel’s overall condition

Future Planning

• Creates a baseline record of the vessel’s condition
• Identifies items needing immediate attention
• Helps establish maintenance priorities
• Assists in planning future upgrades or repairs

From my professional perspective, the most valuable aspect of a pre-purchase survey is that it provides you with an unbiased, third-party assessment of your potential purchase. Unlike brokers, sellers, or even your knowledgeable friend, a professional surveyor has no vested interest in the sale. Our sole responsibility is to provide you with accurate, detailed information about the vessel’s condition.

I’ve seen how this process has saved buyers from making costly mistakes. I recently surveyed a vessel that looked pristine above the waterline but had significant osmotic blistering on the hull below. This issue would have cost the buyer tens of thousands to remedy. In another case, a survey revealed previous structural repairs that hadn’t been properly documented or disclosed.

A thorough pre-purchase survey also gives you a comprehensive understanding of the vessel you’re buying. Even if we don’t find any significant issues, you’ll learn about the boat’s systems, construction, and maintenance requirements. This knowledge is invaluable for future ownership, whether you’re an experienced boater or new to vessel ownership.

Remember, a survey protects both your safety and your investment. While the upfront cost might seem high, it typically represents less than 1% of your total investment, significantly less than the broker’s cut. When you consider that findings from a survey can often lead to price reductions or help you avoid a problematic vessel entirely, it’s one of the wisest investments you can make in the boat-buying process.

Booking Your Pre-purchase Survey

When you first contact me about surveying a vessel, I’ll need some basic information to properly plan and quote the inspection:

• Vessel make, model, and year
• Length overall (LOA)
• Location of the vessel
• Type of vessel (sail or power)
• Your intended purchase timeline
• Any specific concerns you may have

Based on this information, I’ll provide you with a written quote that includes:

• Survey fee (my rates can be found here)
• Estimated travel expenses
• Additional specialist recommendations if needed
• Potential yard fees (which you’ll pay directly to the yard)
• Anticipated timeline for completion

Once you decide to proceed, I’ll send you my service contract which outlines:

• Scope of the survey
• Terms and conditions
• Limitation of liability
• Report delivery timeframe
• Payment terms
• Cancellation policy

The booking is confirmed when I receive:

• Your signed contract
• 50% deposit of the survey fee
• Confirmation of haul-out booking
• Access arrangements for the vessel

At this point, I’ll coordinate with you, the broker or seller, and the boatyard to schedule the survey. I typically need at least a week’s notice to ensure proper coordination of all parties, though this may be longer during peak seasons.

Remember, good surveyors are often booked several weeks in advance, especially during busy periods. It’s wise to start this process as soon as you have a signed purchase agreement. The remaining 50% of the survey fee is due upon completion of the physical inspection, before the report is prepared.

Your Survey Day Overview

A pre-purchase survey is a comprehensive, full day of inspections, measurements and tests. Many first-time buyers are surprised by this, but thoroughly inspecting your potential investment requires significant time and careful coordination.

A professional pre-purchase survey typically takes 6 to 8 hours of actual inspection time. This duration doesn’t include potential waiting periods for tide conditions or boatyard scheduling. It’s essential to understand that we’ll need to coordinate three main components: the hull and systems inspection (this can be carried out in the yard or alongside the dock), the haul-out examination, and the sea trial. These can occur in any sequence depending on various practical factors.

• Tides or currents for safe navigation and haul-out
• Weather conditions
• Boatyard availability
• Prior owner commitments
• Bridge opening times in St Martin/Sint Maarten

As your surveyor, I’ll coordinate with all the parties involved to create the most efficient schedule, but it’s important to understand that we may need to be flexible on the day. For example, if morning weather conditions delay our sea trial, we’ll proceed with the systems inspection until conditions improve.

While you’re welcome to attend the entire pre-purchase survey (and I encourage it as an educational opportunity), please understand there will be periods of detailed technical inspection where I’ll need to focus completely on the vessel. These moments provide excellent opportunities for breaks.

For your comfort during the survey, I suggest:

• Wearing non-marking, non-slip footwear
• Bringing weather-appropriate clothing
• Packing water and snacks
• Having a notepad for observations
• Bringing reading glasses if needed
• Having your phone charged for documentation

To ensure a smooth survey day, sellers or brokers need to arrange the following in advance where relevant:

• Boatyard booking for haul-out (minimum one week notice)
• Marina access permissions
• Vessel keys and access to all compartments
• Battery systems are fully charged
• Fuel tanks at least 1/4 full
• All safety equipment on board
• Documentation and maintenance records ready for review

During these 6-8 hours, I’ll thoroughly examine all aspects of the vessel, document findings with photographs, and test all accessible systems.

Following the physical inspection, I typically require 2-3 business days to compile and deliver your detailed report. This document will include all findings, photographs, and recommendations prioritised by urgency and safety implications.

The Three Essential Components of Your Pre-purchase Survey

A comprehensive pre-purchase survey consists of three distinct but equally important components:

• the hull and systems inspection,
• the haul-out examination,
• and the sea trial.

Let me outline why each component is essential and how external factors influence their scheduling:

The hull and systems inspection requires adequate time and access to test everything from the build structure to electrical systems to the plumbing. Ideally, we perform this when there’s good natural light and before everyone’s tired from a sea trial. However, if we’re working around a yard schedule for the haul-out, we might need to adjust this timing.

The haul-out examination is perhaps the most schedule-dependent component. We’re at the mercy of boatyard availability and tide or current conditions, crane availability and yard operating hours. 

The sea trial timing often depends on weather conditions and tides. While we can complete other components in less-than-perfect weather, a sea trial requires reasonable conditions to properly test the vessel’s performance. I prefer conducting sea trials in conditions that allow us to evaluate the vessel in situations you’re likely to encounter during normal use – not in flat calm or extremely rough conditions.

This flexibility in scheduling actually works to our advantage. For instance, if morning weather conditions delay our sea trial, we can proceed with the systems inspection until conditions improve. Or if the boatyard can only haul the vessel in the afternoon, we can start with the sea trial or systems inspection in the morning.

Key factors that influence our scheduling include:

• Weather conditions and forecast
• Boatyard availability and working hours
• Marina traffic and access
• Bridge opening times
• Wind conditions for sailboat trials

While the order may vary, each component receives the same thorough attention regardless of when it’s performed during the survey day. Whether we start with the haul-out at dawn or end with it at dusk, the inspection standards remain consistent.

The Hull and Systems Check

The hull and systems inspection is far more than just testing systems – it’s a comprehensive examination of both the vessel’s mechanical components and its structural integrity. This inspection can be conducted at anchor, at the dock or in the yard if the boat is hauled out, with some elements checked later during the sea trial.

Let’s break down what I’ll be examining during this phase of the pre-purchase survey:

Structural Elements 

First, I’ll conduct a thorough inspection of all accessible structural components. This includes examining the deck-to-hull joint, bulkheads, stringers, and internal structural elements for any signs of movement, delamination, or water intrusion. Using moisture meters and percussion testing (tap testing), I’ll evaluate the condition of the deck and cockpit areas. I’ll also inspect chain plates, deck hardware mounting points, and other high-stress areas for signs of damage or deterioration.

Systems Testing

When it comes to systems that require water, we’ll test:

• Engine systems (startup, running temperature, exhaust)
• Generator operation and output
• Air conditioning/heating units
• Fresh water systems
• Marine toilets and holding tanks
• Through-hull fittings and seacocks
• Bilge pumps and float switches

Interior Inspection

The interior inspection includes checking:

• All electrical systems and wiring
• Navigation and communication equipment
• Cabinetry and interior structures
• Signs of water ingress around hatches and ports
• Ventilation systems
• Interior lighting
• Appliances and comfort systems

Above Deck

On deck, I’ll examine:

• All deck hardware and fittings
• Windlass and ground tackle systems
• Steering systems (mechanical components)
• Rigging attachments (for sailboats)
• Window and hatch seals
• Non-skid surfaces
• Safety equipment and mounting points

Certain tests may be conducted multiple times under different conditions. For example, while we’ll initially test the electrical systems dockside, we’ll verify their performance again during the sea trial when the engine is running and the systems are under load.

I’ll be documenting everything with photographs and detailed notes. If I find any concerns, I’ll explain them to you on the spot so you understand exactly what we’re looking at.

Some tests might need to wait for specific conditions. For instance, while we can check the air conditioning’s basic operation dockside, its full performance can only be evaluated under heat load during the day. Similarly, some electronic systems need to be tested underway to verify their full functionality.

From experience, I’ve found that seemingly minor issues discovered during this phase often point to larger concerns. For example, a small leak around a deck fitting might indicate more extensive delamination in the deck core, or unusual electrical readings might suggest bigger problems with the charging system.

I’ll be checking that all required safety equipment is present, properly stored, and within date. This includes fire extinguishers, flares, life rafts (if equipped), and emergency signalling devices. I’ll also verify that all through-hull locations are properly marked and accessible.

Remember, while this inspection is thorough, some elements might be inaccessible due to clutter on board, stored personal items or fixed panels. It’s helpful if the vessel is as clear as possible of personal items, allowing better access to all areas. Also, having access to the vessel’s maintenance records during this phase can provide valuable context about service history and any recurring issues.

The Haul-Out Inspection

The haul-out inspection is arguably one of the most critical parts of your pre-purchase survey, as it gives us our only opportunity to examine the vessel’s underwater components. 

During the lift process itself, I’ll be watching carefully. The way a vessel sits in the slings can reveal issues with structural integrity or previous damage.  Once the vessel is safely blocked, here’s what I’ll be examining in detail:

Hull Condition

I’ll systematically inspect the entire underwater surface, using moisture meters and percussion testing to evaluate the laminate condition. I’m looking for:

• Osmotic blistering or delamination
• Impact damage or repairs
• Stress cracks, particularly around fittings
• Signs of grounding damage
• Condition of protective coatings
• Hull fairness and symmetry
• Signs of electrolysis or galvanic corrosion

Running Gear

The running gear inspection includes:

• Propeller(s) condition, including pitch, cup, and blade damage
• Shaft straightness and condition
• Cutlass bearings for wear
• Shaft seals or stuffing boxes
• Struts and their attachment to the hull
• Stern or sail drives
• Rudder bearings and assemblies
• Trim tabs and their mechanisms

Through-Hull Fittings

Each underwater fitting requires careful examination:

• Condition of all through-hulls and seacocks
• Sacrificial anodes and their attachment
• Transducers and their bedding
• Sea strainers and their condition
• Evidence of water ingress around fittings

Rudder Systems

I’ll pay particular attention to the steering system:

• Rudder material condition and attachment
• Signs of water ingress or delamination
• Bearing wear and play
• Stock condition and alignment
• Emergency steering provisions

Keel (if applicable)

For vessels with external keels:

• Keel-to-hull joint condition
• Sign of movement or working
• Bolt condition where visible
• Evidence of grounding damage
• Internal keel sump condition

The haul-out inspection often reveals the most significant findings of the survey. I’ve seen vessels that looked perfect above the waterline show serious issues once lifted, from active osmotic blistering to poorly repaired damage that wasn’t disclosed.

During this inspection, I’ll take detailed photographs of all underwater areas and note the location of all through-hulls and any findings. I’ll also note the condition and type of antifouling paint, as this can affect both immediate and future maintenance costs. Understanding the coating system and its condition helps you plan for future haul-outs and maintenance.

The Sea Trial

A sea trial is much more than just a joyride – it’s a dynamic test of all systems under real operating conditions. I’ll be evaluating how the vessel and its systems perform while underway, something that can’t be fully assessed at the dock or on the hard.

For a proper sea trial, we need reasonable weather conditions – not too calm that we can’t properly test the vessel, but not so rough that it becomes unsafe or unproductive. Typically, we’ll spend 1-2 hours on the water, running the vessel through a series of specific tests and manoeuvres.

Here’s what we’ll be evaluating during the sea trial:

Engine Performance

• Cold start characteristics
• Exhaust smoke color and volume
• Engine temperature stability
• Oil pressure consistency
• Transmission operation
• Engine mounts movement
• Vibration levels at various RPMs
• Maximum RPM achievement
• Fuel system operation

Handling Characteristics

• Vessel trim and balance
• Steering response at various speeds
• Tracking ability
• Turning performance
• Backing and maneuvering
• Performance into and with sea conditions
• Any unusual vibrations or sounds
• Drift angles and correction

Electronic Systems Under Load

• Navigation equipment accuracy
• Depth sounder performance
• VHF radio operation
• Radar functionality
• Autopilot operation
• Battery charging systems
• DC electrical system under load
• AC systems via inverter/generator

For Sailboats (when applicable)

• Sail handling systems
• Winch operation
• Running rigging
• Headsail furling systems
• Reefing systems
• Mast and rigging under load
• Sail wear and tear

During the sea trial, I’ll be making detailed observations about how various systems interact and perform together. For instance, does the electrical system maintain proper voltage when multiple systems are operating? Does the engine maintain proper cooling under sustained load?

One aspect many clients don’t expect is that we’ll often run the vessel at various speeds for sustained periods. This helps reveal issues that might not show up in brief operation – things like transmission problems that only appear after 15 minutes at cruise speed or steering issues that develop as hydraulic fluid heats up.

Throughout the trial, I’ll be documenting available performance data including:

• Speed at various RPM settings
• Engine temperature readings
• Oil pressure values
• Charging system output
• Fuel consumption rates
• Sound levels at different speeds

Weather and sea conditions during the trial will be noted in the report, as these factors can significantly affect vessel performance. I’ll also document if any systems couldn’t be properly tested due to conditions or other limitations.

Safety is paramount during the sea trial. Before departing, I’ll verify that we have:

• Adequate fuel levels
• Proper safety equipment
• Weather conditions and forecast
• Tide and current conditions
• Presence of required documentation
• Operational VHF radio
• Working navigation lights

Remember, while the sea trial is an important evaluation tool, it’s not a guarantee of future performance. However, it does provide information about how systems perform under real-world conditions and can reveal issues that aren’t apparent during static testing.

After the Physical Inspection

After completing the physical inspection of your potential vessel, my work continues with the careful compilation of all findings into a comprehensive pre-purchase survey report. This process typically takes 2-3 business days, as I document every observation and analyse the implications of the findings.

Your survey report will be structured to provide both a clear overview and detailed specifics:

Executive Summary:

• Overall vessel condition assessment
• Major findings requiring immediate attention
• Compliance with relevant safety standards
• Recommendation for purchase (subject to findings)
• Fair market value assessment
• Replacement cost valuation

Detailed Findings:

Each finding will be categorised by: A. Safety and Structural Issues (requiring immediate attention) B. Mechanical Issues (affecting operation) C. Maintenance Items (requiring attention but not critical) D. Cosmetic Issues (affecting appearance only)

Each finding includes:

• Detailed description of the issue
• Supporting photographs
• Potential implications if not addressed
• Recommended corrective actions
• Estimated timeframe for necessary repairs
• Indication if specialist assessment is needed

Using Your Report

For Price Negotiations

The report provides documented evidence for negotiating the purchase price. I’ll include:

• Estimated costs for necessary repairs
• Market comparisons for similar vessels
• Impact of findings on vessel value
• A prioritised list of needed improvements

For Insurance

Most insurance companies will require specific information from the survey. I structure the report to include all typically requested details:

• Construction details
• Safety equipment inventory
• Navigation equipment list
• Current market valuation
• Recommended insured value

For Future Planning

The report serves as a valuable reference for:

• Creating maintenance schedules
• Planning upgrade priorities
• Budgeting for future repairs
• Understanding system locations and access points

After delivering your report, I’m available to:

• Clarify any findings
• Answer questions about implications
• Discuss repair priorities
• Provide advice about specialist contractors if needed
• Assist with insurance company queries

Remember, this report is not just a document for purchase negotiation – it becomes a valuable reference for your future ownership of the vessel. I recommend keeping it alongside your vessel’s documentation and referring to it when planning maintenance or upgrades.

Not all findings carry equal weight. While the report may list numerous items, I’ll clearly indicate which require immediate attention for safety or structural integrity and which can be addressed over time as part of routine maintenance.

If significant issues are found, I’m happy to discuss these with your broker or directly with the seller or his representative to ensure technical details are properly understood. This can be particularly important when complex systems or structural issues are involved.

Finally, I encourage you to use this report as a learning tool about your potential vessel. The detailed descriptions and photographs provide valuable information about system locations, access points, and maintenance requirements that will serve you well throughout your ownership of the vessel.

Next Steps After Receiving Your Survey Report

As your surveyor, I find that many clients appreciate guidance on how to proceed once they receive their survey report. The findings from your pre-purchase survey provide crucial information for making informed decisions about your potential vessel purchase.

Understanding Priority Levels

I categorise findings using a clear priority system:

Dangerous	Hazardous or dangerous. Structural, mechanical or other defects affecting strength, seaworthiness or safety, which require immediate attention.  Vessel is not insurable.
Urgent	Not immediately dangerous.  Non-structural, mechanical or electrical defects not requiring immediate attention but are to be dealt with at the earliest convenience.  Vessel is not insurable.
Priority	Not as serious as Dangerous or Urgent.  Repair should be carried out as soon as possible but within twelve months.  Vessel is only insurable with restrictions or safety precautions.
Advisory	Advice for safety or maintenance consideration. Does not affect the insurability of the vessel.

Using the Report for Negotiations

Your survey report is a powerful negotiating tool. Here’s how to approach it:

• Focus on Dangerous and Urgent items first
• Get professional estimates for required repairs
• Consider future maintenance costs
• Factor in specialist inspection recommendations
• Remember that safety items aren’t typically negotiable – they must be addressed

Working with Insurance Companies

Most insurers will require:

• A copy of the full survey report
• Confirmation that Dangerous items are addressed
• Proof of compliance with safety requirements
• Validation of fire suppression systems
• Evidence of proper safety equipment
• Compliance with specific policy requirements

Creating Your Action Plan

If you proceed with the purchase, prioritise your next steps:

1. Address all safety-related findings immediately
2. Schedule any recommended specialist inspections
3. Plan necessary repairs based on urgency
4. Create a maintenance schedule based on the findings
5. Budget for future upgrades or replacements

Remember that some findings might require:

• Further investigation by specialists
• Multiple repair quotes
• Extended lead times for parts
• Scheduling around yard availability
• Coordination with multiple contractors

The report often reveals items requiring specialised inspection, such as:

• Engine surveyor assessment
• Rigging specialist inspection
• Electrical system analysis
• Composite structure testing
• Tank inspection

As your surveyor, I remain available to:

• Explain technical findings
• Advise on repair priorities
• Recommend qualified specialists
• Review repair quotes
• Assist with insurance queries
• Provide additional documentation if needed

When reviewing repair estimates, consider:

• Urgency of repairs
• Seasonal timing
• Yard availability
• Parts lead times
• Budget constraints

Conclusion

Understanding that your pre-purchase survey is a full-day event with three flexible components helps you prepare for this step in the boat-buying process. While the order may vary, each part – hull & systems check, haul-out inspection, and sea trial – plays a vital role in evaluating your potential purchase. Remember to pack your patience (and lunch!) as you’ll be on-site all day. The good news? By sunset, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of your future boat’s condition!