Mid America Marine Service provides you with a professionally prepared report that is accepted by banks and/or insurance companies. As guidelines in every Mid America Marine Service report, the mandatory Standards promulgated by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) under the authority of Title 46 United States Code (USC): Titles 33 and 46 code of federal regulations (CFR) and the voluntary standards and recommended practices developed by the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) are used.

What Type of Survey Do I Need?
 
Marine Surveys are performed for a number of reasons, and the procedures for each vary to best suit your needs:
 
The Pre-Purchase Survey   This is the most comprehensive type of inspection and is strongly advised when purchasing a new or used boat. It is conducted both in and out of the water. Condition and overall operation of the vessel is examined. This covers structural integrity including hull soundings and moisture readings. The electrical, propulsion and fuel systems, navigation equipment, miscellaneous on-board systems and machinery are also inspected. The cosmetic appearance and overall maintenance is also reviewed. A sea trial usually follows the out of water inspection.
 
The Insurance Survey   This inspection is performed so that the insurance company can determine whether or not the vessel is an acceptable risk. They are interested in structural integrity and safety for its intended use. Most insurance companies require a survey on older boats. They will also want to know the vessel's fair market value.

The Appraisal Inspection   This inspection is performed to gather enough information to justify or determine the fair market value of the vessel. This is normally needed for financing, estate settlements, donations and legal cases.
 
The Damage Inspection   This is performed to assess the extent of damage, recommend and estimate repair cost, and if requested, determine the possible cause.  This survey is normally conducted for the insurance companies, but for his own protection the owner can also have his own done.
 
How long does a survey take and when can I expect a report?   A typical pre-purchase survey on a 25'-90' boat takes several hours. We encourage the buyer and seller to be present. We feel having the owner and buyer or their representatives present prevents confusion. Both parties will know the positive and negative findings of the vessel as the survey progresses. The computer formatted written report is then prepared within two to three days.  A hard copy of the report will then be mailed with a CD of all the pictures and the report itself.  It can also be emailed as well.
 
What does the report include?   The report includes a description of the vessel, her systems, equipment, a narrative section and digital photos. The valuation section is very thorough. To determine the value, Mid America Marine Service uses the BUC Book of Vessel Values, the NADA Vessel Appraisal Guide, ABOS Vessel Appraisal Guide and The Powerboat Guide. We also use information from soldboat.com, which is a subscription web site with actual listing and selling prices of the type vessel surveyed. Our reports are generally accepted by Insurance and Financial Institutions.
 
Please contact Mid America Marine Service via phone or e-mail. We will respond to your questions promptly.