How can I find a good surveyor?

By a little researching, you can actually search out a good surveyor that will pay-off in the long run. You can sort the listing by checking recommendations from people who have experience with the surveyors in your desired area. You can also have a chat with experienced boat buyers and boatyard managers to get some help. Helpful recommendations can also be gotten from marine insurance agents and lending institutions and you can find the right company.

You can ask your prospective surveyor for a current resume, what exactly is included in the survey, and how long the onboard inspection will take. You can ask the prospective surveyor to make use of a quick fill-in-the-blank form, while others write a full narrative report; the latter will generally include far more detailed information and suggestions for improvements.

Various organizations have set different guidelines to determine the safety and security of a vessel. Look for a surveyor who follows the standards determined by the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), and the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG).