Types of Surveys Performed
Pre-Purchase
A pre-purchase survey is generally what our clients request when purchasing a vessel. During pre-purchase inspection, the vessel is examined in detail and all systems are powered on and checked for functionality. We also are examining the structural integrity of the vessel and noting any cosmetic deficiencies. The vessel is usually hauled out and the underwater areas inspected and sounded with a phenolic hammer or an audio gauge is used on metallic hulls to detect signs of plate degradation and corrosion. It is normal for us to then carry out a sea trial on the vessel to check overall engine performance and test all of the items associated with the vessel underway (steering, autopilot, water-makers etc.). A pre-purchase survey gives the client peace of mind that there are no serious issues with the vessel prior to closing.
Condition & Valuation
Similar to a pre-purchase survey, a Condition & Valuation (C&V) inspection is carried out for purposes of insurance, importation (for duty tax) or as general valuation tool for financing. A C&V inspection will list all of the vessels relevant equipment onboard and outline any deficiencies related to the safety of the vessel, possible expensive repairs or any structural concerns.
Damage Inspections
Specifically targeted areas are inspected in cases where the vessel has been damaged in some way and an expert opinion is needed to document the type and cause of damage and to recommend a course of action to repair the vessel to good marine standards. This is a common inspection when a vessel owner is making an insurance claim.
Shipping Container Inspections
CSC shipping container inspections are performed on an annual basis, when a container has sustained some type of damage or when A CSC tag has expired. Our team of surveyors are certified to inspect containers and re-certify CSC tags as needed.
Moisture Inspection
A moisture inspection is comprised of inspecting areas of a vessel where water intrusion is suspected. We use a variety of techniques including moisture meters, phenolic hammers, boroscope cameras and infrared thermography to determine the extent and cause of water intrusion.
Ultrasonic Thickness Testing
An Ultrasonic “audio-gauge” is used to take numerous ultrasonic-thickness measurements around steel or aluminum hulls to help determine if there is any degradation of hull material (wastage of plating material) and is particularly useful when integral fuel, water, grey and black-water tanks cannot be accessed for visual inspection.