Small Craft Survey>Structural Survey
A structural survey comprises a thorough inspection of the vessel internally and externally where accessible and includes the following structural and operational items:
GRP Hull
Inspection of fibreglass laminate, internal structure, bulkheads and bonding. Investigation for the effects of osmosis including moisture measurements. Topside condition and damage appraisal. Assessment of existing repairs.
Steel Hull
Ultrasonic thickness measurement of plating. Inspection for corrosion, distortion of plating and frames, integrity of welding and existing repairs and of painted protection systems. Assessment of anode protection, internal structure and accessibility for maintenance.
Aluminium Hull
Inspection for general or local corrosion and fatigue. Insulation from sources of electrolytic corrosion. Distortion of plating and integrity of welds.
Timber Hull
Inspection for rot and decay of planking and internal timbers, and for worm attack. Condition of fasteners caulking and metal framing. Integrity of glued systems. Assessment of previous repairs and maintenance and ventilation of hull spaces. Condition of paint system.
Deck And Superstructure
Structural assessment including integrity of core construction, hull-to-deck joint security, condition and protection. Condition of surface coatings and teak decking. Inspection of structure in way of reinforcements such as mast step, chainplates, winches and windlasses. Inspection of ground tackle and mooring arrangement.
Multihulls
Structural connection of hulls, beams and bridgedeck structures inspected.
Hull Openings And Fittings
Inspection for electrolytic corrosion of underwater fittings and stern gear.
Cathodic Protection
Electrical continuity check between anodes, stern gear, skin fittings and underwater attachments, including bonding of the engine(s) across shaft coupling(s).
Keel
Inspection for signs of movement, damage to hull and internal structure through grounding. Inspection of keel attachments and lifting keel mechanisms.
Stern Gear
Assess condition of propellers, shafts, stern glands and bearings. Appraisal of shaft support and rotation.
Steering Gear
Condition of rudders, stocks, bearings and mechanism. Inspection of bow and stern thrusters, trim tabs and stabilisers.
Masts And Rigging
Rigging and terminals inspected for damage and corrosion from deck level. Inspection of running rigging. By prior arrangement masts may be climbed for inspection of section, rigging attachment points and spreaders.
Sails
Sails inspected for wear and damage. Sacrificial ultraviolet strip condition assessed. Furling systems inspected. Covers, awnings and spray hoods inspected.
Hatches, Windows And Portlights
Inspection of hatches, windows and portlights for security, watertightness, suitability for escape and condition.
Mechanical Installation
Inspection of engine installations, lubricants, cooling and control systems. Inspection of hoses for suitability, integrity and fluid-tightness. Assessment of exhaust systems with particular consideration towards likelihood of back-flooding.
The Report
The written report will detail the condition of all items inspected, with suggestions and recommendations featured within the body of the report adjacent to the corresponding items and summarised at the end of the report for clarity.
Valuation
During our structural survey we can conduct further inspections to establish the condition of the entire vessel in order to produce a fair and accurate valuation. Please note that we offer a valuation free of charge if required with a Full Condition survey.
For further information please contact our office:
Telephone: +44 (0)2380 207938 | Fax: +44 (0)2380 207938 | Email: info@marine-surveying.co.uk
Postal address: 22 Shamrock Way, Hythe Marina Village, Southampton, SO45 6DY