All surveys and consultation costs are based on a $100 per-hour charge. There is a $300 minimum charge, unless otherwise specified.
All reports are generally available within 48 hrs of the inspection. This allows all surveys to be available to the client within 24 hours of survey completion.
There are no extra charges. All travel charges are included within a two-hour driving range. Surveys may take place anywhere in the U.S. or abroad. All travel cost and expenses are paid for by the client. Since out of town surveys typically take an extra day or two, travel days cost $500 each day in addition to survey days. All arrangements for travel, flights, hotels, etc. are typically made by the boat buyer or client.
Gas engine compression testing is available at $80 per engine.
Oil sample testing is available but takes a couple of weeks for results and is offered at cost.
CONDITION AND VALUE INSPECTIONS
Pre-purchase surveys are generally flat rated at $27 per foot to $30 per foot. Vessel's larger than 42' will be priced on request based on estimated hours to complete. This charge gives me enough time to insure that all bases are covered and the report is complete, without playing “beat the clock”. If the vessel is super clean and all scheduling and logistics are set up and ready to go, there is the possibility for some type of discount, but usually I find that the flat rate works out and pays for my time. Multi-hulls and heavily equipped or complex vessels take much more time than a simple mon-hull vessel. Vessel’s over 45’, or any multi-hull, will typically end up costing approx. $29 per foot. This may include a two day inspection, as warranted. Sailing yacht surveys include full sea trials, mechanical and under sail, as well as an aloft rigging inspection. This is quite often considered an extra charge, or outside contractor charge, but is included in the flat rates above. All AC/DC systems are operated and checked for compliance. All equipment is listed and operated as possible. If equipped, generator is tested no load, full load. Wiring is tested for proper grounding and wiring codes. Everything possible is accomplished during this deep and time-consuming inspection. See about us section of this site for more info. As well, sample surveys and a resume are available for your perusal.
CONDITION AND VALUE INSPECTIONS
Condition and value surveys are $15 per foot. C&V’s are typically for insurance binding and financial institutions. They are not pre-purchase surveys. The requirements by the insurance companies and banks are for the surveyor to check the vessel’s structural integrity, deck condition, static visual inspection of the rig, or engines. Typically no systems are commissioned or operated. In essence it is a deep safety check of the vessel, quite often in or out of the water, or both, specified by the insurance or bank company, and quite often does not require engines and system operation other than shut off valves, bilge pumps and required running lights. All safety equipment and systems are checked for compliance. A fair market and replacement cost is developed. Survey findings and recommendations may be specific depending on their nature, but no deep discussions or comments are made. All comments are adequate for its purpose. I’ve never had a Pre-purchase, Condition & Value, or appraisal refused by any insurance or lending institution during my entire survey career of 26 years. All reports are court worthy.
Value appraisal inspections are $10 per foot and are specifically used for estate settlement or donation purposes. They are a reasonably thorough walk-thru type inspection although all structural members.
Consultation services are often performed for both vessel owners and professional repair yard, or prior to a pre-purchase inspection. If the boat owner, or repair yard has specific concerns, or has questions about his or her boat, repairs and suggestions, a simple hourly consultation can be offered. Whether it be blistering, or delamination regarding bottom condition, damaged or insufficient composite conditions, deck core issues, or any question regarding boats and yachts, consultation is available. Consultation is based on $100 per hour. Consultation is simply by the hour.
Professional legal expert witness fees are based on $100 per hour.