Ship inspections and expertises: What you need to look out for when buying a ship

My name is Davide Ramponi, I'm 20 years old and I'm currently training to be a shipping agent in Hamburg. On my blog, I take you with me on my journey into the exciting world of shipping. I share my knowledge, my experiences and my progress on my way to becoming an expert in the field of "Sale and Purchase ’ - the trade with ships.

Buying a ship is a major decision that needs to be well thought out, not only financially but also technically. Inspections and surveys are key to ensuring that the vessel meets your requirements and has no hidden defects. In this article, I explain why inspections are so important, what types there are, how you can recognise the most common defects and what criteria you should consider when choosing an inspector. I also share a helpful checklist for the last step before making the final purchase decision.

Importance of inspections in the purchasing process

An inspection is far more than just a formal step in the buying process - it's essential to making informed decisions.

Why are inspections important?

• They help to determine the actual condition of a vessel.

• Inspections reveal defects or repair needs that can affect the purchase price.

• They give buyers the assurance that the ship is seaworthy and meets legal requirements.

Risks without an inspection:Failure to carry out a thorough inspection can result in buyers having to bear unexpected costs, such as for repairs that were not obvious before the purchase.

Types of inspections

In the buying process, there are different types of inspections that cover different aspects of a vessel. Each of these inspections plays a crucial role in providing a complete picture of the vessel's condition.

On-site inspections:

These inspections are carried out directly at the vessel's location. An inspector checks the external and internal structure, machinery and equipment.

• What is checked? Condition of the hull, corrosion, deck equipment, engine rooms and cabins.

• Advantages: Inspections carried out directly on site make it possible to identify visual and functional problems

  
  

Technical surveys:

Technical surveys go deeper and analyse the condition of the main engines, generators and electrical systems. They also include inspections of safety equipment.

• When does it make sense? Particularly important for older vessels or those with an unknown maintenance history.

• Result: A detailed report that informs buyers about necessary repairs and the expected service life.

  
  

Classification reports:

These reports are issued by classification societies such as DNV or Lloyd's Register and assess compliance with safety and environmental standards.

• Value for buyers: An up-to-date classification report shows that the vessel has been regularly maintained and complies with applicable standards.

  
  

Common defects in used ships

Even though pre-owned vessels are often a cost-effective alternative to new builds, they often come with defects that buyers should be aware of.

Structural damage:

• Cracks or corrosion: particularly common on older vessels or those that have been operated in aggressive environments.

• Solution: An experienced inspector can assess whether the damage is repairable or jeopardises safety.

Machinery problems:

• Irregular operation: engines and generators that have not been regularly maintained can result in higher repair costs.

• Solution: Test runs and technical inspections before purchase.

Outdated equipment:

• Older vessels often have navigation and communication systems that no longer meet current standards.

Undocumented repairs:

• Missing maintenance records or classification reports can indicate potential problems.

  
  

Choosing an inspector: criteria and tips

A good inspector is essential to objectively assess the condition of a vessel. Here are some criteria you should consider when choosing one:

Experience and specialisation:

• Choose an inspector who specialises in the specific vessel category (e.g. tanker, bulk carrier).

Certifications:

• Make sure the inspector is certified by recognised organisations.

References:

• Ask for references or recommendations from other buyers or brokers.

Communication:

• A good inspector should be able to explain technical details clearly and understandably.

Tip: Trust inspectors who work independently and have no direct ties to the seller to avoid conflicts of interest.

Checklist for buyers before the final purchase decision

Before you make the final decision to buy a boat, you should go through this checklist to ensure that all important aspects have been checked:

Technical inspection:

• Have all main engines, generators and electrical systems been checked?

• Has the condition of the hull and structure been documented?

Documentation:

• Are maintenance logs and classification reports complete and up to date?

• Is there proof of repairs or inspections carried out?

Purchase contract:

• Are all defects and repairs included in the contract?

• Are the payment and handover conditions clearly defined?

Market comparison:

• Has the price of the vessel been compared with similar offers?

Insurance:

• Is the vessel already insured, or have all the documents been prepared for taking out insurance?

Conclusion

Inspections and surveys are crucial steps in the ship buying process, providing buyers with certainty and transparency. With the right planning, an experienced inspector and a clear checklist, you can minimise potential risks and ensure that your new vessel meets expectations.

I hope this article has helped you to better understand the importance of inspections and surveys. What experiences have you had with buying a boat? Share your stories and tips in the comments - I look forward to hearing from you!

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