Boaters are often displeased when an insurer requires their boat to be appraised. And yet, there are many reasons to have your boat appraised, from helping a new buyer learn the condition of the boat he or she wants to buy, to saving lives!
1. The Inspection of a Pleasure Craft is Necessary
There have been too many accidents caused by boats that do not comply with basic safety rules! This is why standards have been put in place in Quebec, as well as throughout North America.
Even if the boat was built by a recognized manufacturer, the standards used at the time of construction are not necessarily the same today. By requesting a boat appraisal, insurers are applying these safety standards.
This is why, as with your home, we strongly suggest that you have a appraisal performed by an approved appraiser when you purchase your boat.
2. The Appraisor Knows What They are Doing
Experience shows that the intervention of the assessor (and the production of his complete report with recommendations) sometimes allows the detection of damages that are far from negligible, and could even prove to be extremely dangerous during navigation:
- Inadequate ventilation of the engines;
- Absence of a box with a cover for the batteries;
- Electrical input not conforming to standards;
- Unsafe propane stove;
- Water infiltration;
- Structural problems in the hull such as osmosis or delamination, etc.
A thorough assessment by a professional accredited by your boat insurance broker can identify all these problems and make recommendations for improvement.
3. The Inspection Contains Concrete Findings and Recommendations
The marine inspection must be done in accordance with N.F.PA. 302 (National Fire Protection Association) and ABYC.
In particular, the report must include the following information:
- The condition of the vessel
- Detailed description of the vessel
- Market value
- Auxiliary equipment
- Photos
- A list of recommendations, if any.
Regulations concerning pleasure crafts change regularly; the expert will mention the modifications that the owner will have to make on his boat to comply with them in his report.
4. The Inspection of the Vessel is Done at the Right Time and Under the Right Conditions
The marine survey cannot be done during the freezing period (approximately between November 15 and April 15), unless the boat is stored in a room where the ambient temperature is maintained above the freezing point.
In conclusion, in order to avoid surprises and inconveniences, do not hesitate to consult a marine expert who will help you save time, money, and most importantly, help you build peace of mind on your boat. To learn more about this subject, do not hesitate to ask your insurance broker for advice.
