Yacht & Small Craft Surveys You Can Trust
JOSH HANNIGAN
Surveyor Associate SAMS®, Professional Member ABYC®
Survey Services
PRELIMINARY INSPECTION
The preliminary or “first impression” inspection is an informal walkthrough-style assessment of a yacht’s condition. This service is provided for boat shoppers who are unable to view a vessel in person, or generally feel they would benefit from having a knowledgeable surveyor accompany them for a viewing.
The inspection consists of an impartial assessment of the vessel’s overall condition and whether equipment and inventory match the boat’s listed specifications. Your inspection report is delivered verbally, making turnaround very quick!
CONDITION & VALUATION SURVEY
Also called the Pre-Purchase Survey, this is the most commonly requested survey, as it is the most comprehensive type of survey that can be performed. It is a detail-oriented, stem-to-stern survey that is meant to uncover and report on any problems that might be intentionally or unintentionally hidden.
You will be provided with an in-depth inspection of the vessel’s structure, propulsion systems, plumbing, electrical, cosmetic components, and any other systems, accessories, or add-ons installed in the vessel.
Potential issues are investigated, including moisture inspection (looking for signs of water intrusion), thermal scan of engine (looking for signs of wear and damage), and the extent of newly discovered or known damage.
The report also includes a market valuation that insurance providers require to underwrite the vessel.
INSURANCE SURVEY
Before insurance companies can determine whether or not a vessel is an acceptable risk, they require an insurance survey. This kind of survey is focused on structural integrity and safety for the vessel’s intended use, and may also include a determination of the vessel’s fair market value.
Other reasons an insurance company would require a survey are for boats older than a certain age, to renew existing insurance, or after damages/loss has been incurred due to an accident or other event for which a claim is being made.
ULTRASONIC HULL THICKNESS SURVEY
For metal and alloy boat hulls, marine surveyors will take non-destructuve ultrasonic hull thickness measurements to accurately assess the thickness of a vessel’s metal plating, which is crucial for identifying potential problems and ensuring the vessel’s structural integrity.
This form of survey uses rigorous and methodical techniques to ensure accuracy of reporting. The marine surveyor must map out test areas and take multiple readings in each area to ensure accuracy and account for any variations in the thickness of the plating.
Worldwide travel
Thorough & professional reports
Prompt turnaround
Industry-leading technology
PREPARING FOR A VESSEL SURVEY
Time and additional expense can be saved by preparing the vessel for inspection and making her more accessible. The surveyor is not responsible for preparing a boat for inspection.
Where applicable, the Client is responsible for:
- As much as possible, arranging to present a clean, shipshape boat, and having all papers and miscellaneous gear ready for inspection.
- Having the vessel owner(s) and/or broker make arrangements with a marina to haul the vessel for bottom inspection, and retain a captain for sea trials.
- Separately arranging for an additional engine surveyor, if desired. An engine survey may be conducted the same day as the Condition & Valuation Survey.
- Clearing lockers and cabin areas of all miscellaneous gear to allow access to key boat systems and hull areas.
- If the Client is not the vessel owner, written authorization must be obtained from the vessel owner(s) to allow survey activities to take place, including boarding and moving the vessel, running equipment, and performing a sea trial.
Josh’s surveys are entirely non-destructive. If the Client would like to have parts dismantled for the survey, such activities must be performed by qualified personnel and are the Client’s responibility to arrange. If the Client is not the vessel owner, these activities are at the sole discretion of the owner(s) and written authorization must be obtained before they can be carried out.
Remember: once you retain a surveyor, he or she works only for you and does not report to anyone else. Your surveyor is there to protect your interests.
QUALIFICATION HIGHLIGHTS
Professional Associations
The Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors® are an internationally recognized organization dedicated to enhancing the profession of marine surveying through communication, cooperation and education. Members must demonstrate the principles of SAMS® as well as be committed to their own continuing professional growth, to SAMS®, and the surveyor profession. All members must abide by a Code of Ethics, and surveyor members must participate in a program of continuing education.
The American Boat and Yacht Council® is a non-profit organization that develops and updates marine standards. As a member, surveyors receive continuing education opportunities and access to the latest published standards and developments.
CERTIFICATIONS / EDUCATION
SAMS – Surveyor Associate
ABYC – Professional Membership
Transport Canada – Pleasure Craft Operator Card
Industry Canada – Restricted Operator’s Certificate (Maritime) & DSC Endorsement
PADI – Open Water Diver
NVCI – Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, Control Tactics for Healthcare Environments
CPTED – Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
LUSAR – Light Urban Search And Rescue
Diploma – Police Sciences / Police Foundations 2004, Sir Sandford Fleming College / University
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE / SEA MILES
Marine Fabrication / Glassing
Power Boat Operator for Bathymetric Survey Operations
Steel Fabrication, Welding & Boat Repairs
Delivery and Charter Captain
25,000+ Nautical Miles
30 years Sailing Experience