Higgins Marine Services

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How Should I Prepare for a Marine Survey?
Time and additional expense can be saved by preparing the vessel for inspection and making more
accessible.
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 re-installation of parts should be performed by qualified personnel and is the
responsibility of the person ordering the survey.
Written authorization from the owner may be needed to board and/or to remove part of the vessel.

What is the price of a survey?
Most surveys are performed on a $/foot basis. All vessels have their own unique layout, size and shape
and often are equipped with many different systems, engines and navigational equipment. Setting
$/foot basis keeps it simple for the surveyor and client.

How long does a survey last?
It is difficult to say how long a typical survey should last, becuase there is no typical survey. Every
survey is unique to that specific vessel and there can be several factors for which a survey might be a
shorter or a more lengthy process.
Proper time management: If the boat is to be hauled out of the water for inspection, make sure that
everyone involved knows the place, time, and actions that will be taken during thehe haul out process.
Communication: The buyer and seller/broker should make arrangements prior to the day of the
survey so that there is a clear understanding that the survey will take place at a certain time and
destination.

Do I have to be present for the survey?
No. You do not have to be present, but is strongly suggested that you do attend or at least be present
for part of the survey to discuss any findings. A survey report will be presented, but a first hand look at
the vessel during the survey can be very informative.