Why Have a Survey

There are a variety of reasons why you should have a survey on a vessel but the main one is to protect yourself and your investment.

If you are buying a boat then you need to be sure that the boat is structurally sound, its price reflects its condition and it does not contravene any regulations. If you already own the vessel then your insurance company may require you to have periodic surveys but even if they don’t it is good to get a knowledgeable third party to check your boat and confirm that she is in a suitable condition to go to sea.

More Regulations

Compared with many aspects of modern life the pleasure boating industry is still subject to very few regulations however this is changing due to pressure from maritime organisations and the EU.

There are now rules on Life Saving Equipment and Fire Protection Equipment that apply to pleasure vessels over 13.7 metre long (45 feet).

New boats built in the European Community must comply with the Recreational Craft Directive (RCD) which defines standards for all aspects of their design and construction. The RCD does not define how a boat should be maintained and inspected after it has been sold but it has set a standard and if your boat no longer meets this standard, either by neglect or through a modification, an insurance company may feel that it is no longer seaworthy and will therefore not be covered by its policy.

Gas Systems and Your Insurance Policy

Onboard gas systems are another potential danger point and the following good advice can be seen on the Calor Marine Shop web site. This states the following :-

http://www.calormarineshop.co.uk/rules-regs-answer.htm

“If your boat is used by you, for your own private and personal pleasure then your gas installation should be in line with BS5482:3 for vessels with older gas systems or ISO 10239 for new installations. There is no legal requirement for you to use a properly trained & qualified and CORGI person, however your gas installation it must done in accordance with these codes. A CORGI registered person should be used to gain a gas safety certificate to show your insurance company that your gas installation meets these requirements. As a note of interest, on your insurance proposal form you will be asked about your gas installation. If your installation does not meet these standards then at best sections of your policy may be suspended, at worst you will be uninsured. “

There are an increasing number of pitfalls for the modern boat owner and as boats become more expensive and waters more crowded it is vital to ensure that you do not compromise your insurance cover.

Be sure that your boat is safe and meets the required standards; get the advice of a professional and have it surveyed.