What should be done to make sure the boat is ready for surveying?
If the boat has been winterized, or is in storage at a marina or at the broker’s yard, the seller or the broker should re-commission the boat as would be done at the beginning of the boating season. Gear stowed elsewhere should be returned to the boat. Batteries should be charged. Water and fuel tanks should be filled. The engine and generator should be started and tested. In general, the boat should be made ready for taking out on the water as if for a day sail. These preparations are not the surveyor’s responsibility, and should be completed prior to his arrival at the boat. See our preparation checklist for more details.