Canal and Narrow boat Surveys

Canal & Narrow Boat Surveys

Pre-purchase survey

Pre-Purchase surveys involve a full examination of the vessel's structure and on-board systems

This is the most comprehensive survey. The focus will be on the structural condition of the vessel and all on-board systems will also be examined. I can email you a detailed list of the items which will be examined, or a sample survey report of a similar vessel, so you can see what is the scope and the level of detail of the pre-purchase survey. For this survey, the vessel has to be out of the water to enable examination of the hull and below water machinery. I am happy to work in dry docks, on slipways, craned and blocked ashore vessels and even on tidal grids. A good ground clearance is required for detailed examination of the base plate.

Pre-purchase (or full condition) surveys usually take a full day for the examination. The results are then presented in an itemised, concise report with a conclusion statement. The recommendations and the advisory notes are prioritised and highlighted for easy reference. The written report will be ready within a week, but more often within four days after the examination. A verbal preliminary report can be given on the day of the examination, and if you are planning to attend the survey, I can show you around the most important findings. After you have received the report, I will be happy to answer your questions or have a general discussion.

insurance survey

Insurance surveys are required periodically by insurers

Insurance surveys are required periodically by insurers. The vessel is inspected in a similar manner as for pre-purchase survey, but the focus is on the risk the vessel presents to an insurer. In most cases, Inland Waterways vessels, which are subject to the Boat Safety Scheme certification, will be examined for hull and below water machinery condition only. If you have commissioned a pre-purchase, this can be used for insurance application purposes.

An insurance survey costs less than a full condition survey, as the reporting time is reduced. It is always a good idea to book the insurance survey well ahead of your insurance renewal, to allow time for repairs to be carried out if required. If re-inspection is required, additional fee will apply.

valuation survey

Valuation surveys provide an assessment of the open market value of a vessel

Valuation survey may be required by Solicitors and Law courts, for financing or insurance purposes. Please contact me with details of your request for valuation survey and I will guide you through the process and quote for the service required.

In all cases, an inspection has to be carried out to confirm the vessel's identity and current condition.

tonnage survey

Tonnage surveys are required to register a vessel and when taking out specific marine finance

HMS Surveys is an approved YDSA and MECAL Tonnage measurer for vessels under 24m in length. The survey results in a Certificate of Survey for Tonnage and Measurement issued by the respective Certifying Authority. This certificate is required if you are applying for VAT exemption. The certificate is also one of the documents you need to register your vessel on Part 1 of the UK Ships Register.

insurance damage survey

Insurance Damage Survey

This type of survey is usually instructed by an insurance company to assess the extent of any damage and subsequent claim.

However, as an insurance policy holder, you may want a second opinion on the damage and your claim.

HMS Surveys carries out insurance damage surveys for Claim Makers. Claim Makers is a full suite claims management firm that takes away the stress and hassle of dealing with insurance claims yourself, and ensures you receive the settlement you are rightfully entitled to so that you can get your yacht back to perfect working order. Their strict no win no fee approach means their interests are 100% aligned with the policyholder.

About All Surveys

I am working in accordance with the YDSA Code of Practice and independently from brokers and agencies. I carry full professional indemnity and public liability insurance.

Please contact me for a quote on the service you require. For surveys in the UK, I will give you a fixed quote, inclusive of all travel and other expenses. If surveying abroad, the travel expenses will cover budget flights and reasonable subsistence. These can either be charged at cost or pre-agreed fixed fee. Lifting the boat out of the water, boatyard, administrative or similar fees are not included and you have to pay these separately, directly to the providers. I am not VAT registered and VAT will not be added.

Before entering into a formal contract, you will be asked to agree to the business terms and conditions. I will also send you an agreement to review and sign before the survey.

request a QUOTE