Pre-Purchase Yacht Survey: What I Inspect and How I Test It

A pre-purchase survey is intended to give a prospective buyer an independent view of the vessel's condition at the time of inspection. It is broader than a simple walk-around and should consider the vessel's structure, systems, machinery installations and safety-related equipment within the agreed scope and the limits of access.

Hull and external structure

The hull is visually examined for distortion, cracking, impact damage, repairs, blistering, corrosion or other signs of deterioration. Where appropriate, the surface may be percussion tested and moisture readings may be taken. On metal vessels, ultrasonic thickness measurements may be used where included in the survey scope.

Deck, superstructure and structural members

Accessible decks, coachroof, bulkheads, stringers, frames, bonding and internal structural areas are examined for movement, cracking, delamination, moisture ingress, corrosion or previous repair. Fittings are checked for security and signs of leakage where access permits.

Machinery and engineering

Engines, gearboxes, mounts, shafting or drives, fuel systems, cooling arrangements, exhaust systems and accessible services are visually inspected. Machinery is run where the agreed survey conditions permit. A marine survey is not a substitute for dismantling or a specialist engine survey, so further mechanical investigation may be recommended if concerns arise.

Electrical and domestic systems

Accessible DC and AC installations, batteries, isolation arrangements, shore power, pumps, navigation equipment and domestic systems are inspected and function-tested where safe and practical. Concealed wiring and inaccessible connections are outside the scope unless specifically opened for inspection.

Rig and sailing equipment

On sailing yachts, the mast, boom, standing and running rigging are inspected from deck level unless an aloft inspection is separately arranged. Chainplates, deck fittings, winches and sail-handling equipment are examined where accessible.

Safety and recommendations

The report records defects in context and makes a recommendation where repair, replacement, specialist testing or further investigation is appropriate. The purpose is not simply to produce a list of faults, but to explain what was observed, how it was checked and how the matter should be resolved.