Why do You Need a Surveyor?

Story by Harris & Ellis / July 12, 2023

Author: Grant and Patricia Bowlby Yacht Brokers Harris & Ellis Yachts

All Harris & Ellis contracts, unless specified by the buyer, will have a condition of survey. A survey report is usually required by marine insurance companies, especially if you are a new or inexperienced boater. Marina operators and yacht clubs require you to have insurance coverage to keep your boat at their docks.

A survey will identify any safety and structural issues that exist within the boat, its rigging, electrical, and fuel systems, its machinery, and other components of the vessel. These may not be known to the owner or your broker. A good marine surveyor can usually determine both obvious and developing issues. This will help you make an informed decision about whether the boat is a good fit for your intended use and your abilities. A good survey report can also provide you with a five-year maintenance list to help you keep your new investment safe and sound.

The surveyor should always be working for you, the buyer. To this end, our brokers can provide a list of surveyors in the vicinity of the boat. However, as a professional yacht broker, it is a conflict of interest for us to recommend any one of them. Your insurance company may also have a list of recommended surveyors they can share with you.

Start by contacting a few surveyors. Ask about their qualifications, what they plan to inspect, and what methods they use to assess the vessel. Then you can hire a surveyor based on your comfort level with their knowledge, experience, and ability to work with you.

Categories: Buying a Yacht, Selling a Yacht

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Testimonials

George Ayers was terrific to work with over the past few months as I evaluated, negotiated and purchased a CS 30 that Harris & Ellis Yachts had listed in Sarnia. He was patient, thorough and totally professional. I have owned nine sailboats in my 50+ years as a sailor. My experience with George and Harris & Ellis Yachts has been my best boat buying experience to date.

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George did an amazing job of selling our CS 30 sailboat. A caring and compassionate person, he went above and beyond our expectations and never stopped working on our behalf to get the job done. We are forever grateful for his dedication to his work. Please let him know how much we think of him!

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I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the outstanding service provided by Greg. Last October, my husband suddenly passed away due to a heart attack, leaving behind two boats. Greg was instrumental in helping me sell the first boat quickly and at a very good price. As for the second boat, due to my husband's declining health in his final year, the boat had been sitting idle at the dock near our home for over a year. Greg demonstrated the utmost professionalism in cleaning, maintaining, and preparing the boat for sale. He put in a tremendous amount of work, understanding the niche market for this boat, and always kept me informed of his progress without burdening me with the stress of the process. Last week, Greg successfully sold the second boat, and I am very satisfied with the price achieved. His professionalism and confidence in his work gave me a much-needed sense of security during such a difficult time.

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Thank you for all your work in facilitating the sale of our dad's boat. Jake and I really appreciate all the hard work you put into it with the many visits, paperwork, etc. A special mention has to go out to Grant for teaching me how to fold the sails!

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As first-time boat buyers and as foreigners wanting to buy a cruising catamaran in the US, we knew we needed a reliable broker that had our best interests in mind. John Heintzman was just that, and more! He was extremely committed to understanding what we were looking for, gave great advice, and guided us through the purchase process with great patience and knowledge. All in all, we felt very well taken care of.

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I feel compelled to reach out about the absolutely wonderful experience that I have had with Grant and Patricia Bowlby. I completed the purchase of a boat yesterday and I couldn’t be happier. They were so helpful, kind, and patient. This was my first experience with a broker, and I think I’ve found the best.

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I can’t thank Ewan Campbell enough for the super job he did in selling G, making up for my lack of experience in this realm and patiently searching for just the right buyer and a win-win for seller and buyer alike.

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It was a wonderful experience selling A with Jeff Cole’s expert assistance. Thank you for simplifying a complicated process. Your patience and kindness are especially appreciated.

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I just wanted to thank Jeff Cole for all his hard work. He was very professional and effective.

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