A boat inspection Washington D.C. trusts can be carried out for all manner of reasons. It can be performed when a boat is first built or later on in the process for safety and compliance. Moreover, before a boat is sold or bought, or when the vessel’s operations dramatically change, a survey may be needed.
Marine surveyors perform various types of boat surveys for a range of reasons. The most common types of surveys include:
- Initial surveys
- Periodic surveys
- Transitional surveys
- Pre-purchase surveys
- Insurance and valuation surveys
- Electrical design and approval surveys
The type of boat inspection Washington D.C. you require will depend on your needs. For example, if you plan on buying a used boat, the type of boat survey you will need is a pre-purchase survey. If you need boat insurance or wish to use the boat as collateral for a loan, you will need an insurance and valuation survey. Here are the main reasons why you may need the input of a marine surveyor.
To determine if the boat has been modified, altered or changed in any way
There is nothing worse than learning years later that the boat you spent a fortune on had been modified. Needless to say, some modifications can make it hard for you to get your vessel registered. There are also modifications that can alter the performance of your boat. For example, if the engine on the vessel is too small, it will overheat and keep on breaking down. Moreover, an engine that is too powerful can reduce the stability of your boat. the work of the marine surveyor is to determine if major alterations or changes have been made to the boat. The surveyor will also help you know if major repairs were done. Having this information in hand before buying a used boat helps make informed decisions.
To determine the value of the boat
Another reason you will need the input of a marine surveyor is to determine how much the boat is worth. You cannot take the seller’s word for it. Due to the emotional connection the owner has with the boat, they might end up setting a price that is too high. To make sure you are not paying more than you should, you need a boat surveyor to help you know the fair market value of the boat. This information is also valuable to a seller. It helps them know if they are pricing their boat properly or not.
To ensure all the pieces of equipment are safe
Understanding the condition of the equipment on a boat is important. It helps you know if the boat will cost you a fortune to fix it up. You can also use this information to gain an upper hand during negotiations.
There are many reasons why you should get a boat inspection in Washington D.C. The rule of thumb, however, is to make sure you work with an experienced and competent surveyor.