Pre-Purchase Boat Surveys.
Know What You're Buying. Understand What Matters.
Buying a boat is a significant commitment, and understanding its condition before purchase is essential. A pre-purchase survey provides an independent assessment of the vessel, identifying defects, maintenance requirements and potential concerns that may otherwise go unnoticed.
At March & Co Marine, surveys combine professional inspection with extensive practical experience in boatbuilding, maintenance and restoration. From modern GRP yachts and motorboats to traditional wooden craft, the aim is to provide clear, balanced advice that helps you make an informed decision.
A Clearer Picture Before You Buy
Independent Assessment. Practical Advice.
A pre-purchase survey looks beyond a vessel's appearance to assess its structure, condition, equipment and systems. Particular attention is given to defects that may affect safety, ongoing maintenance or future repair costs.
Rather than simply listing faults, the survey explains their significance, helping you understand what requires immediate attention, what can be addressed through routine maintenance and what may warrant further investigation.
What Does a Pre-Purchase Survey Include?
Every vessel is different, and the inspection is tailored to its construction, age, condition and equipment. A typical pre-purchase survey may include:
Hull structure, condition and underwater surfaces
Keel, rudder, stern gear and associated fittings
Decks, superstructure, hatches and windows
Structural bulkheads, frames and internal supports
Machinery installation and accessible engine components
Electrical installations, batteries and charging systems
Fuel, freshwater, gas and sanitation installations
Spars, rigging and deck equipment, where applicable
Safety equipment and general onboard arrangements
Evidence of moisture ingress, corrosion, deterioration or previous repairs
The inspection is generally undertaken with the vessel ashore, allowing examination of the underwater hull and associated fittings. An afloat inspection may also be appropriate where required.
Access restrictions, inaccessible areas and equipment that cannot be tested are clearly identified within the report.
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More Than a List of Defects
Straightforward Reporting. Informed Decisions.
A good survey should do more than identify faults. It should explain what they mean, why they matter and what may be involved in putting them right.
Following the inspection, you'll receive a detailed written report setting out the vessel's condition, observations and recommendations. Findings are prioritised to distinguish significant concerns from routine maintenance and advisory items.
The report is intended to provide a practical basis for understanding the vessel, planning future work and discussing any findings with the seller or broker.
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Experience That Goes Beyond Inspection
Practical Knowledge. Professional Judgement.
Having spent much of my working life aboard, maintaining and repairing vessels, I understand boats from the inside out. That experience shapes the way I survey, combining careful inspection with straightforward reporting and recommendations grounded in the realities of boat ownership.
From traditional timber construction to modern GRP and steel vessels, every boat is assessed on its own merits, recognising its construction, age, intended use and maintenance history.
Pre-Purchase Surveys Across the East Coast & South CoastMarch & Co Marine provides independent pre-purchase yacht and boat surveys throughout Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, London, Kent, Sussex, Hampshire and the wider South Coast.
Covering the Thames Estuary, East Coast, River Thames, Solent and surrounding coastal and inland waterways, surveys can be arranged at boatyards, marinas and other suitable locations. Work further afield throughout the UK is also available by agreement.
Frequently Asked Questions
A pre-purchase survey is strongly recommended, particularly when buying a used vessel. It can identify defects and maintenance requirements that may not be apparent during a viewing, helping you understand the condition of the boat before committing to the purchase.
Do I need a survey before buying a boat?
For a comprehensive pre-purchase survey, the vessel will normally need to be lifted ashore so the underwater hull, keel, rudder and associated fittings can be inspected. Arrangements for lifting and access are generally made by the purchaser in conjunction with the boatyard, owner or broker.
Does the boat need to be lifted out of the water?
Accessible machinery, installations and associated systems are examined as part of the survey. However, a detailed mechanical assessment, internal engine examination or specialist diagnostic testing may require a qualified marine engineer.
Will the survey include an engine inspection?
A sea trial can be arranged separately where appropriate. This provides an opportunity to observe the vessel's operation and performance under way, although it does not replace a comprehensive survey or specialist mechanical inspection.
How much does a pre-purchase boat survey cost?
Can a sea trial be included?
Survey fees depend on the vessel's size, type, construction, location and the scope of inspection required. A clear quotation will be provided in advance, outlining the survey arrangements and any additional requirements.
Buying a Boat? Let's Talk.
Whether you're considering your first yacht, a modern motorboat or a traditional wooden vessel, an independent pre-purchase survey can help you understand exactly what you're buying.
Contact March & Co Marine to discuss the vessel, survey requirements and arrangements for inspection.
