If you’re a boat owner looking to understand the legal requirements for marine surveys, then you likely already know that a marine surveyor 33730 is the best professional to bring on board. This article aims to explain the legal requirements in more detail and offers some advice on choosing a qualified surveyor.
A marine surveyor 33730 is generally required when an individual wants to purchase, obtain insurance, or sell a vessel. The purpose of a marine survey is to assess a vessel’s condition with regard to safety and provide an objective third-party assessment of its value.
The first step for any prospective marine surveyor is to gain certification from a recognized organization like the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS). SAMS is dedicated to providing training, certification, and continuing education to surveyors throughout North America. Once all criteria are met, including passing an exam and gaining industry experience, the surveyor will receive accreditation.
In addition to formal qualifications, it’s important to select a qualified marine surveyor who has experience in the type of vessel that you need to inspect. As a result, many people opt to find a local or regional certified marine surveyor like Suncoast Marine Surveying. With decades of combined experience and hundreds of satisfied customers, Suncoast Marine Surveying can help you make sure that your vessel is up to code.
According to marine survey standards, a survey is required whenever you are altering, repairing, or rebuilding a boat’s structure. This includes replacing structures such as decks, bulkheads, transoms, or planking and may also involve repairs or replacements of machinery systems, electrical wiring, plumbing systems, fuel tanks, and propulsion systems. Inspections are also necessary when renewing certificates of inspection, registering a vessel with certain authorities, or insuring a vessel with new or revised coverage terms.
When choosing a surveyor, verify that they are accredited to conduct these types of assessments. Most states have their requirements for marine surveyors which address topics such as mandatory yearly updates regarding the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) System and special licensing for certain types of vessels. Most surveyors will include their credentials in their formal document submissions.
While the primary focus of any marine survey should be to establish a vessel’s condition and identify any safety-related issues that could affect its market value, both buyers and sellers alike should take notice of other elements included in an inspection report. These include the date of the survey, locations visited, photographs taken, and descriptions of the various compartments inspected. A copy of the report should be provided to either party with any costs associated clearly stated at the time of signing an agreement for services.
By adhering to marine survey regulations and following the advice outlined above, you can ensure that your next marine survey is conducted professionally according to industry standards.
When selecting a qualified surveyor, always remember to choose someone who has experience performing such inspections on boats similar to yours. If you are in St. Petersburg or anywhere in Florida, Suncoast Marine Surveying is your go-to source for all your surveying needs.