What does it take to become a Boat Surveyor?

[denverd0n]

Originally Posted by boatpoker

Proud to say that I have been recently banned by North South Nautical Group from surveying any vessels they list

I'd say that's something you SHOULD be proud of!


If I had made an offer on a boat, and the selling broker said I could not choose any surveyor that I wanted, I would walk away and make it very clear to them that I would never waste my time with their brokerage again. And then, if I had any way to get in touch with the seller, I would make sure he knew why the offer had fallen through ('cause I'm going to guess that the brokerage would make up some lie to tell him).

[Dougtiff]

As already stated, in the US, no certification is needed, but most insurance and lending institutions require a certification, its spendy to keep a Nams or Sams up to date, and if not surveying full time, not worth it. I survey Wooden vessels, being a Shipwright for many years, i'm good at it, but tell the client i'm not certified.

[boatpoker]

Originally Posted by Dougtiff

As already stated, in the US, no certification is needed, but most insurance and lending institutions require a certification, its spendy to keep a Nams or Sams up to date, and if not surveying full time, not worth it. I survey Wooden vessels, being a Shipwright for many years, i'm good at it, but tell the client i'm not certified.

Most underwriters don't understand the difference between real certifications and diploma (for a price) mills and so accept most who claim to be certified, accredited, master marine surveyors.

[Fore and Aft]

I did a 9000 hour boat building apprenticeship in Wellington NZ, then spent 15 years building and repairing boats. I finally got sick of grinding glass so I did a International Istitute of Marine Surveyors distance education course on Marine Surveying and got a diploma. Then got myself insured and started surveying.
Cheers
Drew

[Snore]

Originally Posted by RobinScurr

As has been stated, at least in the United States, all that is required to be a surveyor is to declare yourself to be one.... no licensing is required, no code of ethics that must be followed, etc.

Knowledge of what a boat is would be a good idea!

AND a good contract that holds you faultless for anything you miss!!

[boatpoker]

Originally Posted by Snore

AND a good contract that holds you faultless for anything you miss!!

Thats a bit of a myth. The courts often rule against surveyors limitation of liability statements. Lots of online examples.

[tiopirata]

When you have completed 20 years seagoing in the type of vessel you intend to service and survey ask that question again. Until then it is a moot point.

[Snore]

Originally Posted by boatpoker

Thats a bit of a myth. The courts often rule against surveyors limitation of liability statements. Lots of online examples.

Thanks good to know.