PRE PURCHASE INSPECTIONS

 

A pre-purchase survey is a thorough inspection of the vessel’s structural and watertight integrity, system’s installations, and operating condition, as well as performance. A comprehensive report is issued which includes an equipment list, specifications and detailed list of deficiencies and recommendations. Replacement and market values are assigned to the vessel. Most lending institutions and insurance companies require a pre-purchase survey.

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Also known as a "Buyer's Survey", it is a detailed examination/inspection of a vessel to determine its condition and value. The survey is done for a prospective buyer prior to the actual purchase.

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Although a particular vessel may have a well-documented history of use and maintenance, it is in the best interests of the client that the findings of the surveyor result specifically from its current state. This survey is therefore based solely on a careful inspection of all accessible portions of its structure and available equipment such as:

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• Hull/Deck/Coachroof laminates and cosmetic condition

• Underwaterbody through hulls and seacocks

• Interior frames/bulkheads and supporting structures

• Rudder and steering gear

• Propeller, shaft, cutless bearing, strut

• Deck fittings, lifelines, stanchions, mooring cleats

• Accommodation spaces - Interior finishes

• Galley equipment - refrigeration

• Fresh water tanks, pumps, hoses, heaters

• Marine Sanitation Devices (MSD) - holding & discharge systems

• Engine, fuel system, exhaust system

• Electrical systems - 12VDC & 120VAC

• Navigation equipment/ electronics

• Ground tackle, windlass

• Fire fighting and Safety Equipment

• LPG and CNG systems

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Ashore with full access to the underwater body. All areas of the under water body, side shells and deck/coach roof are inspected by "sounding" and testing with a moisture meter to determine the structural integrity of the vessel. The keel, rudder, hull penetrations, and propulsion components are evaluated. Electrical systems and electronics are tested. However, some testing of systems and verification of certain components, such as sea valves, stuffing boxes, and steering systems can only be done while afloat under operational conditions.

Afloat with all tanks filled and all systems operating. Propulsion machinery is operated, but in a static mode only and not under load. The integrity of sea valves and hull penetrations can be verified. Certain auxiliary systems can also be run, but only to a limited extent.

Sea trial underway with all machinery and systems operating. Sea trials are at the request of the client with the vessel operated by the owner or the owner's authorized agent. Propulsion machinery is operated under load and all systems and components can be tested under actual sea conditions. Generally, the following activities take place:

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• Engine Instrumentation & controls checks

• Engine block & exhaust temperature measurements

• Engine exhaust system integrity evaluation

• Full power trials

• Operation of marine electronics and navigation gear

• Demonstration of electrical system(s)

• Demonstration of bilge pumping system(s)

• Demonstration of potable water system

• Demonstration of marine sanitation system

• Demonstration of galley equipment