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Details & Rates

Pre-Purchase Survey

This is the most comprehensive type of inspection and is strongly advised when purchasing a new or used vessel. It is a very thorough “Condition and Valuation” (C & V) survey that will include operational testing and inspection of systems and equipment, including but not limited to engine/propulsion, electrical systems/equipment, tankage/plumbing, hull and machinery, safety/lifesaving gear, haul-out inspection and sea trial, overall cosmetic appearance and maintenance, compliance with Federal safety and environmental regulations including the most recent ABYC boat building standards, and inventory of vessel amenities and extras. Its primary purpose is to provide potential buyers with the information that they need to make an informed purchase decision. It may also be used to satisfy the insurance company and bank loan requirements. This survey includes extensive photos, comments-recommendations on deficiencies, and a comprehensive market appraisal for the vessel’s condition on the day of the survey.

Rates:
$18-25.00 Ft. depending on type of vessel, location and hull material. Minimum "C&V" survey is $600.
Please call our office for more information on your particular needs (415) 497 - 9027. If we cannot help you, our extensive network of maritime professionals working in the area can assist you.

INSURANCE SURVEY – “LIMITED CONDITION AND VALUATION “

This survey is often done specifically for insurance purposes, including for harbor berthing requirements to determine whether or not the vessel is an acceptable risk. The insurance companies are interested in structural integrity and the vessel’s condition and safety for its intended use. Most insurance companies require a survey of older boats. They will also want to know the vessel’s fair market value. An insurance “C & V” survey may be done with the vessel either afloat “in the water” at the slip or ashore during haul-out, a sea trial is optional depending on your insurance requirements. Each insurance company has its own set of requirements as to what age/size vessel needs a survey, and what the survey report should include. This is especially true for vessels made from anything other than fiberglass (wood, steel, aluminum). The information contained in an insurance C & V survey report is not sufficient to make an informed decision regarding the purchase of the vessel.

Rates:
$18-22.00 Ft. Vessels over 60’ - $22 Ft.
Please call for further details for your particular situation - location of vessel and required insurance coverage - (415) 497 - 9027.
Please call for SPECIAL DISCOUNTS and reduced rates offered to local maritime educational and non-profit organizations here in the San Francisco Bay.

APPRAISAL INSPECTION/SURVEYS

These are used for financing, estate settlement, legal cases, and donation of a vessel to charities. The inspection is done to gather enough information to justify or determine the fair market value of the vessel on the day of the survey. Professional marine surveyors are recognized by the IRS, courts, banks, and insurance companies as boat and yacht appraisers within their area of expertise.

Rates:
$16-$18.00 Ft. with a flat rate of $500.00.
This report also includes extensive photos required by the banks or insurance companies. An extensive market appraisal – valuation with acceptable industry resources are always provided.
Please call for SPECIAL DISCOUNTS and reduced rates offered to local maritime educational and non-profit organizations here in the San Francisco Bay - (415) 497 - 9027.

DAMAGE INSPECTIONS

This inspection report is done to assess the extent of damage, recommend repairs, estimate repairs cost, and if requested, the probable cause if unknown or as a result of a legal dispute or insurance claim. As a surveyor and local maritime professional, I work with the boatyards and vendors/repair services to find competitive and reliable services.

Rates:
$16-$18.00 Ft. with a flat rate of $600.00.
This report also includes extensive photos required by the banks or insurance companies. An extensive market appraisal – valuation with acceptable industry resources are always provided.

PRE-INSPECTION OFFER/LISTING SURVEY

You found your boat but need an experienced professional surveyor to inspect before making that offer or listing the boat for sale whether privately or through a yacht brokerage. 

Get your disclosures up front, recommendations on getting it ready for the market and avoid surprises at the time of sale. As a buyer, don’t waste your time kicking fenders and looking at boats below your particular standards of quality and safety!

Rates:
Please call for more details on Consulting Services and Fees - (415) 497 - 9027.

PREPARING FOR THE SURVEY

In our Survey Contract under Section II “Responsibilities of Person Contracting for Survey”,  we highlight the importance of preparing the vessel for your survey. TIME and ADDITIONAL EXPENSES can be saved by preparing the Vessel for inspection and making her more accessible. 

Good Advice from SAMS – Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors:

  • Arrange to present a clean, shipshape boat and have all the papers, including Reg/Doc, maintenance/repair invoices, any previous Surveys and miscellaneous gear ready for inventory and inspection.
  • If this is a private transaction without a broker, be advised to communicate this information to the seller of the boat prior to survey. This would also include logistics and scheduling for the boatyard haul-out and sea trial. The Surveyor does not act as Captain or operator of the vessel.
  • Lockers and cabin areas should be cleared of all non-essential gear so access can be facilitated. As surveyors, we know already that access at times can be restricted just due to boat design and building practices of the boat manufacturer or installations made by a previous owner(s).
  • The Surveyor should never be asked to prepare a boat for inspection
  • The Surveyor may request minor dismantling of the interior ceiling, headliners, cabin sole floor, etc. in order to gain access to suspected areas.
  • Random inspection of fasteners on wood boats below water line could be examined for condition. Any dismantling and re-installation of these parts should be performed by qualified personnel, which is the responsibility of the person ordering the survey.
  • Written authorization from the owner may be needed to board and/or to remove any part for the vessel for the purposes of the survey report.
AND REMEMBER….. ONCE YOU RETAIN THE SURVEYOR, HE OR SHE WORKS EXCLUSIVELY FOR YOU AND REPORTS TO NO ONE ELSE. THE SURVEYOR IS THERE TO PROTECT YOUR INTEREST ONLY!

What you can expect

  • A detailed report on the condition of your vessel
  • An in-depth inspection and series of tests on the vessel, looking at each components functionality, structure, and cosmetic condition
  • Clear conclusions with expert advice on all issues identified
  • Solutions on the best way forwards, whether it is concerning repairs, facts for purchasing negotiations, or just peace of mind on the condition.
  • Report is the sole property of our direct customer and will not be shown to any other concerned parties unless instructed to do so
Golden Gate Yacht Surveys
+415-497-9027

petermoorhead@comcast.net

Larkspur, CA 94939