Pre-purchase boat surveys
A pre-purchase survey provides a clear, independent assessment of a vessel before you commit to buying. It helps identify structural issues, defects and potential costs, giving you the information you need to make a confident and informed decision — and to negotiate effectively if problems are found.
Based in Cumbria and operating across the UK, AC Yacht & Boat Surveyors carries out pre-purchase surveys on a wide range of vessels.
Why you need a pre-purchase survey
Buying a vessel without a professional survey can expose you to significant financial risk. A thorough independent inspection gives you a realistic picture of the boat’s true condition before any money changes hands.
A pre-purchase survey can help you identify structural or safety concerns, highlight defects and maintenance issues, understand likely repair costs, support price negotiation, and buy with confidence.
What the survey covers
Each survey is carried out methodically and typically covers hull and deck structure (internal and external), rudder and steering gear, stern gear and propeller, keel, bulkheads and chainplates, deck hardware, openings, hatches, ports and windows, skin fittings and sea cocks, cathodic protection, stanchions and handrails, masts, spars and rigging (to head height if stepped), sails if available for inspection, gas and fuel installations, fire fighting and safety equipment, plumbing, bilge pumps and ground tackle.
Machinery is assessed by external inspection, covering engines, bearers, fuel lines and systems, hoses, connections, clamps, filters, fuel tanks and exhaust. Equipment will not be run up if the vessel is on the hard.
Electrical systems are assessed visually, covering switchboards, batteries, wiring and electrical items.
Osmosis checking may involve the removal of small sample areas of antifouling to allow moisture meter readings. Hull thickness can be measured using a Cygnus 4 Multiple Echo gauge, which does not require coatings to be removed.
Can’t attend the vessel yourself?
If you are unable to travel to where the vessel is located, Mike can carry out a preliminary viewing inspection on your behalf. This is not a full survey but provides a useful initial assessment before you commit to travelling. The cost of the viewing is deducted from the pre-purchase survey fee if you go ahead.
