[sailingfool]

I still don't think the surveyor is really on the hook for anything, perhaps short of criminal negligence. Here's the text from my last survey:
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Payment for and acceptance of this survey or appraisal constitutes understanding of and agreement to the following:
a. This report is signed and issued in good faith without prejudice and is a description of the condition as then found.
b. This survey or appraisal, unless otherwise stated, was made without removal and/or borings of structural members
and/or removal of fastenings and is based on visual examination of accessible areas. Unless otherwise stated, a moisture
meter was not used.
c. Main engine(s) and/or auxiliaries were not surveyed by the undersigned, other than mentioned. A professional engine
survey is always recommended.
d. This survey or appraisal report does not constitute an inventory.
e. This report is not a warranty or guarantee either expressed or implied that unforeseen and/or undetected defect or damage
does not exist. This is especially true during winter months when all systems and equipment can not be checked.
f. While great care was taken with this survey and report, this surveyor, can not be held responsible, in any way, for any
inaccuracy, errors in judgment, omission, negligence or misstatement.
g. This surveyor is performing independently and my compensation is not contingent upon the reporting of a predetermined value.
h. The undersigned, in making this report, is acting on behalf of the person or firm requesting same.

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This survey missed several big items, including a leaking fuel tank, ended up costing me about $8-12,000 at least.

Before folks post to say I am wrong in my opinion, as I may well be, I'd like to hear one or two reports from people who have collected anything more than the fee back from a "faulty" survey.