English
Loss Prevention 07 Feb, 2025

Vessel Condition Surveys

Mark Dunbar
Mark Dunbar
Surveys Manager

Recently the Club’s Loss Prevention department has noticed a trend of Members arranging condition related surveys directly with surveyors (particularly follow-up surveys to check cargo hold hatch covers for weather tightness). 

Accordingly, Members are reminded that Rule 20 B sets out that surveyors are to be nominated by the Club Managers, as such we will not accept surveys that have been arranged directly by Members with no Club involvement. Therefore, any restriction on cover will remain in place and a further survey, arranged by the Loss Prevention department, will be necessary.

A number of issues can result when Members arrange for their own surveys, such as:

  • Surveyors used may be unknown to the Club so that we do not know if they have the necessary experience, are independent, reliable, trustworthy and have the necessary training / calibrated equipment.

  • Visual examination may not be made; this is a vital part of hatch survey for weather tightness, including test by ultrasound equipment, and needs to be carried out (with photographic evidence).

  • Specific areas highlighted by previous surveys may not have been subject to close inspection, due to inadequate instructions.

  • When further repairs are required / made, it is vital that a complete further survey is carried out and lack of awareness may mean this is not done.
Members seeking further information relating to this should contact the Club’s Loss Prevention Department.