16 septembre 2017

Helpful Tips To Prepare For Marine Surveying In Ontario And Elsewhere

By Stephen Hayes


If you are lucky enough to own a boat, or are considering purchasing one, you probably already know there are certain responsibilities that go with it. If you are taking out a loan in order to buy it, the financial institution will require a survey before it loans you money. The insurance company will survey it before issuing a policy. If the boat is damaged, the adjuster will want to come aboard and survey the extent of repairs needed. In order to prepare for marine surveying in Ontario and elsewhere, there are things you can do to speed the process along.

It is not a good idea to have a crowd of people on hand when the inspector comes to check your vessel. This is not the time to invite your children, grandparents, best friends, and co-workers for a ride. The surveyor needs room to carefully inspect the boat, and that will be hard to do if there are people in the way. Ideally it will only be you and the inspector on the boat during this process. If a pilot, navigator, or manager normally tends the vessel, it is appropriate to have them on hand.

You need to plan your inspection well in advance of the time you actually need a report, if possible. Inspectors are in high demand, and it is often difficult to make an appointment. Sometimes weather conditions require rescheduling. Once you have an appointment, it is important to be prepared for it and to be on time.

It should go without saying that you want to put your best foot forward when it comes to an inspection. Your vessel should be in tip top condition with everything working properly. If it has been damaged, you need to point out the problems and have them clearly visible. The inspector's first impression can influence the final report in a positive or negative way.

Removing any unnecessary gear while you are in the cleaning process is a good idea. It will help if the surveyor has a clear passageway throughout the boat. It won't help your cause if the inspection is held up or delayed while you get extra equipment off the boat. Some inspectors won't even begin a survey if the vessel in question is too cluttered to allow for a thorough assessment.

There is certain equipment that should remain on your vessel. This includes any tools that might be needed to removed panels. You cannot expect the surveyor to bring these items on board or to remove the panels. Liability issues prevent inspectors from altering the vessel in any way. Not only will you have to have tools available, you will need to know how to use them.

Don't be afraid to ask questions when you get the final report or when a loan officer or insurance representative contacts you with their decisions. These reports can be difficult to read for those unfamiliar with them. The inspector should be happy to explain anything that confuses you.

Sailing and fishing in deep water are pastimes that many people enjoy. Having your own boat and the freedom to come and go when you please is a luxury. It is important that you maintain your investment in order to make it last as long as possible.




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