ABOUT

Our emphasis is to provide comprehensive reports that give you pragmatic advice. They are written in a clear and understandable format, aimed at the boat owner. We carry out a thorough series of inspections and tests and we describe the results as found.

All BMSE members have successfully attended the full time surveyors course held at the International Boat Training College at Lowestoft - the only course of its kind available. All of our members operate independently and will provide you with unbiased and professional advice.

Listed below are the main services offered by our members. However, individual members may offer further services and should be contacted directly for details.

Condition surveys

A pre-purchase or full condition survey is a complete assessment of vessel’s structure and equipment. It provides the best possible basis on which to make a purchase decision. If required we can include a valuation which can be used to secure a marine mortgage against the boat or for insurance purposes. Ideally the boat should be out of the water and on the hard for some days before survey, though conditions should be discussed with your surveyor before proceeding.

Our reports highlight those items that will require immediate attention or that may affect insurability. Also included are all other items that have been found defective, that should ideally be attended to. For further details of individual surveyor formats, contact your local surveyor. Some members provide sample reports, so please check members individual web sites for examples.

GRP and wooden hulls are checked using the latest model ‘Sovereign Quantum’ marine moisture meter. These measure electrical capacitance to detect shallow and deep-seated moisture, allowing our surveyors to form a clear picture of any possible moisture problem. We measure not only the below waterline areas, but the topsides, decking and superstructures. Steel vessel thickness is checked using Krautkramer or similar multi-echo ultrasonic test meters that distinguish between the hull metal and surface coatings or fillings, providing accurate steel thickness. 

Insurance and valuation surveys.

Insurance and valuation surveys cover the vessel’s main structural components and systems for any issues which may affect value or insurability. It includes an assessment of the vessel’s current market value on a willing buyer, willing seller basis. They are not as thorough as a full condition survey and will not include minor defects. The valuation is made on the basis that the boat and her equipment are in good order and that minor defects have been addressed. In addition to insurance requirements, this type of survey may be used where a loan is to be secured against the vessel.

Tonnage surveys

Tonnage surveys are carried out as part of the process required to record a boat on the UK’s Shipping Register for Merchant Ships and Pleasure Vessels. It is not an assessment of condition. Registration is usually required if the marine mortgage is needed to purchase the vessel. It involves measurement against set criteria, a check of ownership records and verification of engine capacity.

Consultancy work

Many of our members are available to provide advice on most aspects of small boat construction and repair. For example we can provide an independent check on hull osmosis treatments and recommend suitable forms of remedial treatment. We can help you in selecting a suitable vessel from amongst several possibilities by carrying out a series of basic checks and providing you with a short report. Note this is not the same as a condition survey. This work is generally carried out on an hourly charge basis.

Please see our member’s individual web sites for information on terms of business and pricing.