We're lucky to have several experts contributing stories to boats.com. Paul Grimes, a licensed surveyor, has recently written a few articles about the details of the boat survey process, including an explanation about the surveyors themselves.

Paul Grimes inspects an engine as part of his work as a surveyor.

Paul Grimes inspects an engine as part of his work as a surveyor.



The most common time to hire a surveyor is when you're buying a boat, so that's what Paul's latest article (Understanding Boat Surveys: What is Pre-Purchase?) deals with in detail.  There are also a few other times when a survey is necessary, like when you update your insurance, file a claim, or have a special situation or area that needs inspection.

There's no substitute for a licensed surveyor who is familiar with your type of boat, but you might consider looking a boat over on your own as a first step. (Read Survey it Yourself, From Stem to Stern) If there is a glaring deal-breaker, you could save yourself some money and time. And even if there isn't, you'll have a much better feel for whether this is indeed the next boat of your dreams.

For another surveyor's perspective, read Surveyor: the Sleuth on your Side. There are also several articles about surveyors on YachtWorld, including:

10 Things You Need to Know About a Marine Survey
Marine Surveyors Earn Their Fee
10 Problems to Look Out For in Used Yachts and Boats
Insurance Policy Terms for Yacht Owners

Written by: Carol Cronin
Carol Cronin has published several novels about the Olympics, sailing, hurricanes, time travel, and old schooners. She spends as much time on the water as possible, in a variety of boats, though most have sails.