Have your Narrowboat Surveyed
We always recommend that when purchasing a narrowboat you commission an independent survey, that way you can be confident your boat is structurally sound. We suggest you pick an independent qualified surveyor (preferably an inland waterways specialist who understands steel-bottomed boats). If you need help finding one, below is a list of independent reputable surveyors that are within our area or who will travel to our area.
Please note that these surveyors are all independent and work on your behalf, so you will need to appoint one yourself. We do not have any marine surveyors employed by us, or in any way connected to us and you do not have to choose a surveyor from this list.
Once you have chosen your surveyor, you will need to decide what type of survey you would like to have done on your vessel. Below are the three types of surveys that you can have done on your craft.
- Full Survey
- Hull Survey
- Internal Survey
A Full Survey
This is like a complete boat health check. Done both in and out of the water, it checks everything from a structural and safety viewpoint. These are the most comprehensive survey you can have done on your craft.
A Hull Survey
Checks aspects related to the structure/insurance parts of the boat, such as the hull and the stern gear. This is done with the boat out of the water.
Internal Surveys
This is a safety check inside the boat. It tests things like vents, fire extinguishers, wiring etc.
Remember the surveyor works for you, the buyer, and he will point out every issue the narrow boat has. The Venetian team will work with you so that you understand the survey and its implication in the purchase of the boat.
You can use any surveyor you wish, but please make sure that they can offer boat safety certificates as well as a standard survey. We will also require them to highlight any insurance or boat safety requirements within the report as these can potentially be re-negotiated on depending on the deal you have already agreed.
A typical survey will cost anything between £250 and £600+ VAT depending on the type of survey required. Always check prices directly with your chosen surveyor as they are all independent.
Haul out for a purpose of a survey is currently £250 + VAT.
See our list of local marine surveyors below; (to go to their websites or email click on the surveyors name):
Our sister company Whilton Marina has filmed a video showing the kind of things that boat surveyors look for when they carry out a narrowboat hull survey. They have many more useful video clips on their youtube channel.