Surveyor recommendation for Lake St Clair/Detroit area.

[Nth]

Hello everyone, I'm looking for surveyor recommendations. I'd found a 30+ year old Morgan 38 on Lake St Clair that I'd love to buy but finding a trustworthy surveyor in the area is proving a challenge.

So far I've called ten different people from the SAMS's list. Of the one's that responded only two were available and interested in doing a pre-purchase survey on her. Both of them didn't have insurance and wanted me to sign a wavier indemnifying them against shoddy work. Doesn't really inspire confidence.

If anyone has dealt with a good surveyor in the area please let me know.

[GordMay]

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Nth.
Try the NAMS list.

Oops “No results found (for Mi)" ➥ http://www.namsglobal.org/apps/membe...pdate_results=

[Nth]

Originally Posted by GordMay

Greetings and welcome aboard the CF, Nth.
Try the NAMS list.

Oops “No results found (for Mi)" ➥ Find a Marine Surveyor |

Thanks! Yeah, wonder what's up with that? It's not like Michigan boarders four great lakes or anything. Also makes me wonder how valuable the SAMS certification is if their members can just get clients to sign waivers absolving themselves of shotty workmanship.

One of the guy's 'work orders' stated he'd do a complete inspection of the propulsion system and listed engine, mounts, transmission, etc yet when I asked him he said he doesn't touch engines.

Hopefully someone from the area will see this post and drop me a name.

[valhalla360]

It's a liability thing. If there is some hidden rot/damage and they miss it, it could easily be in the tens of thousands to repair (or be impractical to repair). They don't want to be on the hook for that.

Realistically on a large boat, there will be areas that are hard/impossible to get a good look at without destructive testing.

Engines: It's annoying but standard practice. If you want the engines checked out, you typically need to pay extra or get a mechanic (different skill set is involved). Likewise the rigging is typically a different person.

While you are at it confirm if it includes a sea trial or any other special testing (ie: moisture meter, etc...)

Oh and get a copy of a sample survey to confirm what is included.