Survey Service
Insurance Yacht Survey
Marine insurers frequently ask for a current condition and valuation survey before offering or renewing cover, particularly for older vessels.
What insurers typically look for
An insurance survey concentrates on condition, safety and insurable value rather than on purchase negotiation. Requirements vary between insurers and markets, so confirm what your underwriter needs before commissioning the survey.
- Overall structural condition of the hull and deck
- Machinery, electrical and fuel system condition and installation standards
- Fire, gas and safety equipment
- Corrosion protection and through-hull arrangements
- An opinion of current market and replacement value where requested
Insurer requirements differ by underwriter, vessel age and cruising area. Always confirm the specification with your insurer.
Condition and value together
Many insurance surveys combine a condition assessment with a valuation, because the insured sum needs to reflect the vessel's actual condition and equipment. If you are also buying the yacht, discuss with the surveyor whether one survey can satisfy both purposes or whether separate reports are appropriate.
Common questions
How often do insurers require a survey?
Renewal intervals vary between insurers and depend on vessel age, type and value. Confirm the interval with your underwriter rather than assuming a standard period.
Is an insurance survey the same as a pre-purchase survey?
No. An insurance survey focuses on insurability, safety and value. A pre-purchase survey is broader and is designed to inform a purchase decision.
Guides
Read before you commission a survey
Guide
What Does a Yacht Survey Include?
The areas a pre-purchase survey typically covers, and the limits of any inspection.
Read guide: What Does a Yacht Survey Include?Guide
How Much Does a Yacht Survey Cost?
How survey fees are usually structured, and the additional costs buyers forget.
Read guide: How Much Does a Yacht Survey Cost?Guide
How to Choose an Independent Yacht Surveyor
Experience, independence, accreditation, insurance and report quality.
Read guide: How to Choose an Independent Yacht SurveyorOther services
Other survey services
Primary service
Pre-Purchase Yacht Survey
Purchase due diligence: understand the vessel's condition before you complete the deal.
View pre-purchase yacht survey detailsYacht Valuation
An independent opinion of value based on condition, equipment and market evidence.
View yacht valuation detailsDamage Survey
Assessment of damage, likely extent and repair implications.
View damage survey detailsEngine Survey
Specialist assessment of engines, machinery and operating condition.
View engine survey detailsSailing Yacht Rigging Survey
Standing and running rigging, chainplates and mast-related concerns.
View sailing yacht rigging survey detailsArrange an Independent Pre-Purchase Survey
Tell us where the yacht is and we’ll help you identify independent marine surveyors near the vessel.