Searching for a marine surveyor in Toledo? Our frequently asked questions can guide you

Q: "If I have a vessel surveyed, what kind of guarantee do I get?"

A: None. A marine survey is the opinion of the marine surveyor as to the conditions that existed on the craft at the time of the marine inspection. It is not a guarantee, warranty or insurance policy. In fact, most surveying companies—ours included—provide disclaimers in their reports stating specifically that they are not to be held responsible for any errors or omissions.

Q: "My boat is made of fiberglass, not wood, so why do I need a survey?"

A: Most of our customers don't realize how few fiberglass vessels are made completely of fiberglass. Most production glass boats have wood or plywood stringers, hull framing, bulkheads and transoms. Decks, and sometimes hulls, are frequently constructed with balsa core—referred to as sandwich construction. It is quite possible for a "fiberglass" boat or yacht to have a significant rot problem that is invisible to the eye.

Q: "How do you find hidden rot or problems? What methods or tools do you use?"

A: This is a little like asking a magician how he does his magic tricks. Normally, the laminates and structures are examined both visually, and through a combination of tapping, or sounding, with a hammer. Sometimes tight areas are probed (gently), with a pick or probe. A good surveyor leaves no marks. Also, the laminates should be tested for moisture content with a moisture meter.

Q: "Who makes the best boat today?"

A: It's surprising how often this one gets asked. There isn't any one best boat or manufacturer. Some companies are known for sport boats, some for cruisers, some for fishing, etc. Some builders are primarily known for building the best package for the price. Expect to pay a consultation fee in order to discuss this subject at length with any surveyor, for it cannot be addressed briefly. Often, a 15- or 30-minute consultation with a knowledgeable surveyor cannot only bring you up to date on whose product is the best for the money, but what particular make and model may best fit your needs.

Q: “My broker has recommended a surveyor. Is he the one to use?”

A: Brokers will be well aware of the marine surveyors in their area, and out-of-area specialists, and may supply a list, but it should be your choice when selecting a surveyor. Bear in mind that an out-of-area marine surveyor may manage to be more independent than one whose office is on the marina.

Q: “How do we check for expensive fuel tank leaks?”

A: Captain Tony uses an electronic sniffer that actually checks for trace gas molecules to detect leaks in gasoline, diesel tanks. We also use the same instrument to detect propane gas in the cabin.

Q: “How do I prepare for a Pre-purchase Marine Survey?”

A: Try to get the seller to empty out storage areas and not have things stored on top of compartments the surveyor would want to inspect. Any compartments where access is impeded by stores will not be checked so it is to your advantage to do what you can in having a clean, easy to inspect boat ready for the surveyor.

Q: “Can I be present for the Survey?”

A: We encourage buyers to attend on the marine survey, although it is not always necessary. Often observations and recommendations in the written report will be more meaningful to you if we are able to point out the item in question while you are present. We can also answer questions and make comments during the survey which might not be significant enough to include in the report. We do ask all persons present during the survey to allow the surveyor time to focus on the task at hand, and not look over his shoulder or constantly engage in conversation during all aspects of the survey. We also ask that friends and family not attend during the in-water portion of the survey, or the sea trial.

Q: “What if the boat doesn’t ‘pass’ the Survey?”