DB Marine Survey, based in Oxfordshire, is happy to travel to most areas in the UK for Pre-Purchase Surveys. Please get in touch with your requirements
It is the client’s responsibility to organise removing the boat from the water, be it a dry dock, cranage or slipway. I am happy to discuss the best options available in your location.
Preferably, hulls need to be pressure washed prior to a survey inspection. Without the removal of marine growth, debris, etc, it is not possible to tell the condition of paint systems or the extent of corrosion and pitting, resulting in a limited survey report.
Pre-Purchase Survey
A pre-purchase survey examines the boat’s structural integrity using ultrasonic thickness testing, hammer testing, pit depth analysis, assessing corrosion and initial build quality.
The survey will also check that the cathodic protection is adequate and that the paint systems are offering good protection. Hull apertures are checked for integrity and freeboard. Any faults found will be graded as Urgent recommendation, recommendation or advisory.
The inspection also evaluates the stern gear, engine & drive, electrical / plumbing systems, and interior fitout, a full-day process. I always advise a full / pre-purchase survey when purchasing a fully fitted boat. The cost is often offset by any uncovered faults since repairs can typically be negotiated into the purchase price.
After the survey, I’ll call with a verbal summary of my findings and then email the full report within 3 working days, usually 48 hours.
The price of a Pre-purchase Survey varies depending on the size of the vessel and location, but the costs start from:
- Narrowboat £800
- Widebeam £900
- Dutch Barge Due to Dutch Barges varying in size, age and condition, please contact me to discuss prices.
NDT Testing
More information about the other UK Marine Surveys we provide
Insurance Survey | Hull Survey | In-water Assessment | Valuation