Format: I''m sure each format is not exactly the same, but each of the boat''s systems should be analyzed (i.e. electrical, hull, deck,
rigging etc).
Rating: Essentially they are going to tell you the problem areas and how critical they are, i.e. minor problem (for example, a battery that needs to be replaced), major problem that would make the boat unseaworthy or cause structural problems (for example, delamination in deck,
rigging that needs to be replaced, blisters in hull). Most problems that are encountered can be fixed, but some are very expensive!! You need to know what you are getting into. If problems are encountered that you will fix yourself, then you can negociate the price down on the boat. Are all surveyors the same? Absolutely no!!!! (just like no doctors, lawyers, plumbers or car mechanics are the same). Be careful who you pick. Don''t go with a surveyor that the broker selling the boat recommends--then you have conflict of interest. You want someone working for you and no one else. Also, don''t accept a survey that the seller commisioned. Again: conflict of interest. A seller frequently will have a survey done so they know what needs to be fixed before they sell. Get your own survey though. It may cost $400, but a major repair that you didn''t know about will certainly dwarf this.
Good luck.
Rob
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