Time and additional expense can be saved by preparing the vessel for inspection and making her more accessible.
- Have the ship's papers available if possible; title and/or registration, US Coast Guard documentation (if applicable)
- Boat fueled (tanks preferably half full)
- Batteries charged and electrical system operational
- Water system operational (tanks preferably half full)
- Normal equipment, including electronics, on board, installed and operational
- If available, US Coast Guard required safety equipment on board
- Cabin, lockers, other compartments and the bilge accessible and free of clutter
- If applicable, arrangements made with the marina to haul the vessel for inspection of the bottom and underwater machinery
- If applicable, arrangements made for someone to operate the vessel on the sea trial (owner, marina employee or hired captain)
A surveyor may (rarely) request minor dismantling of interior ceilings, headliners, flooring, etc. in order to gain access to areas with suspected problems. This should be performed by qualified personnel and becomes the responsibility of the person ordering the survey. Written authorization of the owner or their representative is required.
ONCE YOU RETAIN THE SURVEYOR, HE/SHE WORKS ONLY FOR YOU AND REPORTS TO NO ONE ELSE. THE SURVEYOR IS THERE TO PROTECT YOUR INTERESTS!
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