Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to do to prepare for my survey?

Arrange to present a clean, shipshape boat, and have all papers and miscellaneous gear ready. If applicable, you will need to make arrangements with the marina to haul the vessel for bottom inspection and retain a captain for sea trials. Lockers and cabin areas should be cleared of all miscellaneous gear.

The surveyor should never be asked to prepare a boat for inspection. The surveyor may request minor dismantling of interior ceilings, headliners, flooring, etc. in order to gain access to the suspected areas. Random removal and examination of below-the-waterline fasteners on wood boats may be required. Any dismantling and reinstallation of parts should be performed by qualified personnel and is the responsibility of the person ordering the survey.

All required safety equipment also needs to be onboard, serviceable, and up to date. Additionally, Life Jackets should be onboard for all personnel attending a sea trial.

Written authorization from the owner may be needed to board and/or to remove part of the vessel.

What type of Survey do I need?

Pre-Purchase Survey

This is the most comprehensive type of inspection and is strongly advised when purchasing a new or used vessel. The condition and overall operation of the vessel should be examined. This covers structural integrity, electrical systems, the propulsion system, the fuel system, other machinery, navigation equipment, miscellaneous on-board systems, cosmetic appearance, electronics, and overall maintenance as well as an out-of-water inspection and a sea trial.

Insurance Survey

This inspection is performed so that the insurance company can determine whether or not the vessel is an acceptable risk. They are interested in structural integrity and safety for its intended use. Most insurance companies require a survey on older boats. They will also want to know the vessel’s fair market value.

Appraisal Inspection

This inspection is performed to gather enough information to justify or determine the fair market value of the vessel. This is normally needed for financing, estate settlements, donations, and legal cases.

What Standards do you follow for the survey?

True North Marine surveys are performed to ABYC Standards and Recommended Practices, NFPA-302, and USCG 33 and 46 CFRs

How much does a survey cost?

The cost of a survey depends on a variety of factors including the size, type, age and the condition of a vessel. On average, a pre-purchase survey costs $25-30 per foot of LOA, but there are other factors that may contribute to the cost. While the marine surveyor will only spend 6-10 hours on your vessel, (more depending on size) it is important to complete a thorough report, which may take 20-22 hours to complete back at the office. This report will be delivered within 5 business days (M-F).

Additionally, limited, at sea trials are an additional cost and require an owner's representative to operate the boat. It is recommended that an out-of-the-water inspection be included in every survey as well. Haul-out costs are the responsibility of the person purchasing the survey.

Why should I get a survey?.

Vessel surveys are much like a home inspection for a house. It is important that you know exactly what you are getting when you purchase a vessel. A good marine surveyor will provide you with a complete picture of the vessel’s systems, provide you with a fair market value for the vessel using several different sources and provide an unbiased snapshot of the actual condition of the boat. His or her report is drafted for the client, not for any other parties unless the client expressly requests so.