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Pre-Purchase Survey

Before purchasing a boat it is usual and prudent to have a Full Condition Survey carried out on the vessel and her gear.

A survey report would then be compiled and posted (or emailed) to the client within 2 or 3 days. I would also normally telephone the client immediately after the survey to let them know any significant findings as people are usually keen to know the outcome.

Occasionally clients join me on board during the survey for a short period to talk over some points. This is fine but I do also need sufficient time alone on the vessel to concentrate on running through all the necessary points.

A list of the general contents of the survey is set out below but this would also often be tailored to the type of vessel or the particular requirements of the client. For instance a client might be interested in the suitability of a particular vessel for long distance cruising so there would be a section on the pros and cons of this sort of boat.

At the end of the report there would be a list of recommendations, generally categorized as strongly recommended or considered advisable.

1. Introduction

• 1.1 Instructions from client
• 1.2 Extent and Limitations of Survey
• 1.3 Photograph of Vessel
• 1.4 Particulars of Vessel
• 1.5 General

2. Hull

• 2.1 Topsides
• 2.2 Underwater hull
• 2.3 Keel
• 2.4 Skeg
• 2.5 Bridge Deck Structure
• 2.6 Sterngear
• 2.7 Rudder
• 2.8 Anodes inspected on the Vessel
• 2.9 Galvanic and Electrolytic Corrosion

3. Skin Fittings and Seacocks

4. Internal Hull Structure

• 4.1 General Condition
• 4.2 Keel Bolts
• 4.3 Bulkheads
• 4.4 Mast Support

5. Deck and Coachroof

• 5.1 General
• 5.2 Hull to Deck Join
• 5.3 Hatches
• 5.4 Windows
• 5.5 Deck Gear



• 6. Cockpit
• 6.1 General

7. Rig

• 7.1 Mast and Spars
• 7.2 Chain Plates
• 7.3 Standing Rigging
• 7.4 Running Rigging
• 7.5 Sails

8. Steering Gear

9. Engine

• 9.1 General Condition
• 9.2 Installation
• 9.3 Stern Gland

10. Bilge System

11. Electrics and Electronics

• 11.1 General
• 11.2 Navigation Lights
• 11.3 Internal Lighting
• 11.4 Electronics

12. Tanks

• 12.1 Fuel Tank
• 12.2 Fresh Water Tank
• 12.3 Holding Tank

13. Accommodation

• 13.1 General
• 13.2 Galley
• 13.3 Navigation Area

14. Domestic Systems

• 14.1 Gas System General
• 14.2 Gas System Inspected Onboard
• 14.3 Fresh Water
• 14.4 Heads
• 14.5 Miscellaneous Systems




15. Ground Tackle




16. Life Saving Equipment

• 16.1 General
• 16.2 Lifesaving Equipment Inspected Onboard



17. Fire Fighting Equipment

• 17.1 General
• 17.2 Fire Fighting Equipment Inspected Onboard



18. Accessories




19. Summary and Valuation




20. Conclusions

• 20.1 Strongly Recommended
• 20.2 Considered Advisable