[Jeff_H]

That is an important point about using a certified surveyor. States do not license marine surveyors so anybody can call themselves a marine surveyor. There are however two organizations that certify marine surveyors; NAMS and SAMS. NAMS has the most stringent standards for certification including an apprentice ship and an exam.I think it is important to make sure you are using an NAMS or SAMS certified marine surveyor since not all surveyors are certified. Oddly enough Ihave found that certified surveyors often have more reasonable pricing for the work that they do and are often more willing to spend the time that it takes to get things right.

You can locate a NAMS certified surveyor in your area on their website.
http://www.namsurveyors.org/membership/default.htm

Jeff