If you’re in the maritime industry, you know that a ship or boat must undergo several inspections before being approved for sale or operation. Marine surveyors and marine inspectors are both integral in boat inspections. So what’s the difference between a marine surveyor 33713 and a marine inspector?
A marine surveyor 33713 usually evaluates ships or boats prior to their purchase by inspecting the vessel for safety and structural integrity. They not only inspect a boat’s condition but also verify its maintenance logs, engine logs, and records of repair and technical history. A marine surveyor’s job is also to provide an estimate of the vessel’s fair market value, advise buyers if further work or negotiations are needed, and document any potential problems or damages.
In contrast, a marine inspector assesses vessels already in use or those recently purchased by reviewing them for compliance with applicable laws and regulations such as emission standards, workplace safety rules, and Coast Guard requirements. While marine surveyors may note circumnavigation damage (worn-out features) when assessing a vessel’s condition, marine inspectors would note if there are any existing violations.
Marine surveyors like Suncoast Marine Surveying can often perform both surveys and inspections. In addition to providing accurate evaluations of the vessel’s overall condition, a marine surveyor can assist with insurance issues, appraisals, and legal issues, and help identify underwater damage and assess repairs.
Both marine surveyors and inspectors have many tasks common to their roles. They’ll both need excellent eyesight and strong attention to detail. They’ll need to be familiar with the design features of different types of boats and ships as well as understand hull construction and rigging systems. Both professions also require excellent communication skills, as they will need to be able to clearly explain their findings to their clients.
While there are some similarities between marine surveyors and inspectors, it is important to remember that they serve different functions. For instance, while both may evaluate vessels for safety and structural integrity, the inspection process performed by a marine inspector is often done on a much smaller scale than that of a marine surveyor. And while an inspector may be responsible for ensuring regulatory compliance, it is up to the marine surveyor to give an estimate of the vessel’s fair market value. It’s also important to remember that marine surveyors are typically hired prior to the sale of a vessel while inspectors may be brought in anytime after the point of sale.
At Suncoast Marine Surveying, we offer experienced assistance whether you need a pre-purchase survey or annual inspections conducted by qualified professionals using the latest technology. Contact us today for more information about our services!