Services

Different types of Surveys

The purpose of a marine survey is to determine, within limitations of visual and physical accessibility, through non-destructive means, the condition of the vessel's structure and systems.

The survey is based solely on a careful visual inspection of all accessible portions of its structure and available equipment. Certain parts of the hull structure, equipment, machinery, and systems can be inspected only by removal of soles, bulkheads, headliners, tanks, and joiner work. This may be destructive in nature, prohibitively time consuming and expensive to restore, and therefore, is not done.

A complete Condition or Pre-purchase survey includes:

1. An ashore inspection to check the hull structural integrity, the condition of the stern gear and appendages.

2. An afloat inspection including test operation of equipment, systems and appliances, with inspection of the internal structure and accessible structural components.

3. A sea trial to evaluate the performance of the vessel, systems and machinery.

Pre-Purchase Survey

This is the most comprehensive type of inspection, and is strongly advised when purchasing a new or used yacht.

Condition and overall operation of the yacht should be examined. This includes such items as structural integrity, out of water inspection, sea trial, electrical systems, navigation systems, propulsion system, fuel system, machinery, electronics, appearance and overall maintenance.

To request a Pre-Purchase or Insurance Survey please complete the attached form and return to us by Fax or Email. Click here...
 

Insurance Surveys

This inspection is performed so that the insurance company can determine whether or not the yacht is an acceptable risk. They are interested in the structural integrity and safety of the vessel for its intended use. Most insurance companies require a survey on yachts over 20 years old. They may also want the survey to include the yacht's fair market value.

Valuation Surveys

This inspection is performed to gather enough information to justify or determine the "fair market value" of the vessel. The "fair market value" of the vessel must not be mistaken for the "replacement value" which can be quite different.

Valuation Surveys are also often needed for financing, estate settlements, donations, and legal cases.

Damage Surveys

Damage surveys are carried out to assess the nature and extent of damage, recommended repairs, estimate of repair costs, or quantum, and determination of the probable cause.

The Survey Report

The survey report is generally issued no later than 7 working days after the inspection date. It is written in a simple, easy to read, plain English style and includes photographs and/or drawings where appropriate.

The report lists graded "findings and recommendations" for the items to be corrected prior to operating the vessel for its intended use.

The conclusion is our opinion of the general condition of the vessel.

Marine Insurance Claims

We act for the majority of the UK and European Insurance Companies and Lloyds Underwriters in the investigation of Marine Insurance Claim. 

Theft Claims

We carry out full theft investigations attending at the scene and carrying out locus enquiries, interviewing the policyholder, and obtaining full witness statements. Liaison with the Police and other agencies is always carried out and a full report is submitted to Insurers. In addition we circulate details of stolen boats, outboard motors, and equipment to the Police, UK importers and other interested parties. Full details are also recorded on the stolen boats website at: 

stolenboats.org.uk

Damage Claims

We assess the nature and extent of the reported damage and comment upon what proportion is incident related. In all cases we fully investigate the cause and nature of the damage to enable Insurers to consider the question of liability under the terms and conditions of the insurance policy.

Fire Claims

Fires on vessels are investigated to determine the nature and extent of the damage and if possible the probable cause. Fire scenes are made secure where possible and the evidence is systematically analysed. We also have specialist forensic scientists available to assist when it is considered to be necessary.

Sinking Claims

We carry out full investigations into sinking casualties to determine the cause, and if possible consider the possibility of recovery of the wreck. Full statements are taken from the skipper and crew and any witnesses in order that the full circumstances can be considered with regard to Insurers liability under the policy. We have access to a number of professional salvage and qualified diving contractors should their services be considered necessary.

Throughout all claims investigations we strive to act in a professional manner to provide insurers and other with a qualified report of the facts surrounding a loss incident or casualty.

Personal Injury Claims

Following our many years experience within the Police Service and our marine background we assist the legal profession and underwriters in the gathering of evidence in relation to marine related person injury claims. Interviewing and obtaining written statements which will be accepted in litigation proceedings. In addition we prepare reports and provide expert witness evidence.

Fraud Investigations

We always keep an open mind when handling claims on behalf of underwriters. That said we always remain vigilant to the possibility of fraudulent insurance claims. Whenever fraud is suspected we will investigate vigorously and liase with authorities in our efforts to find the evidence to support either a prosecution or at least a claim to be repudiated.