Choosing a Surveyor

NOLEN'S MARINE SURVEYING, INC
196 Hance Pt. Rd.
North East, MD 21901
443-350-3447

Choosing a Surveyor

Anyone can title him or herself a Marine Surveyor

and start a business. Certain marine surveyors

are permitted to use a designation denoting member-

ship in accrediting organizations that require members

to meet strict professional, technical, and ethical

standards. Surveyors should provide you with a

professionally prepared report that can be accepted

by your bank and/or insurance company. Talk with

prospective surveyors and ask questions! What does

the survey include, and what type of reporting format

is used? Do they use ABYC, NFPA, and USCG

standards in their surveys? How much will the inspection

cost? How long will the inspection take? A

thorough inspection will not be rushed. It will depend

on the type of survey required, and based on

size, equipment, and onboard systems. There may be

additional services available such as engine surveys,

oil analysis, galvanic and stray current corrosion testing,

ultrasonic testing, moisture testing, as well as

other non-destructive tests. There may be additional

charges for these and other services.

Well conducted surveys can provide good information

on the vessel's condition, but they are not

guarantees. The surveyor reports the condition in

accessible areas only as it existed at the time of

inspection.

Why should you have the vessel surveyed? The

buyer needs to know her condition and approximate

fair market value. Most insurance companies and

banks will require a current survey on older vessels

in order to underwrite and/or finance the vessel. Finally,

the most important reason to survey your vessel

is for the safety of your crew and guests.