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Boat Checklist

PrePurchaseInvestigators.com  EXAMPLE of a good BOAT Checklist.

This sample checklist is JUST AN EXAMPLE of items an Expert will investigate.

A full boat inspection (a Marine Survey) is preferred to be done both in and out of the water and includes a sea trial.  Of all the inspections on PrePurchaseInspectors.com, Boat Inspections might be the most time-consuming if not the most labor-intensive.  

If the Boat Owner has a recent Marine Survey, it might be best to simply have a Short-List Inspection to confirm things haven’t changed since the Marine Survey and to confirm the Seller’s Representations as well as things that might be important to you, the Buyer, such as odors, wear and tear, add-ons, etc.

  • Look through the owner’s manual and legal documents so you have the exact specs and features list with you. You can either print it off yourself or ask the current owner to provide one.
  • This is helpful for the Inspector to have on hand, but not required.
  • Knowing the history of the individual boat is helpful in knowing where any dings or scrapes / larger issues may have come from
  • Any recalls?
  • Any known issues?
  • Has the boat been in any accidents?
  • Fluid Levels
  • Inboard or outboard motor and how many engines.
  • Check engine hatch for breathability
  • Motor starts smoothly
  • Check engine insulation
  • Check for any leaks
  • Check age of engines
  • Look for any smoke
  • Check transmission
  • Check levers on every seacock
  • Check raw water intake and strainer
  • Shorts or any indication of issues with the electronics.
  • Check battery for damage or corrosion
  • Check interior and exterior lights
  • Check navigational equipment (GPS)
  • Check electrical box
  • Check HVAC or Air Conditioner for effective cooling and heating
  • Check appliances
  • Check all wiring and connections
  • Check for corrosion or signs of damage
  • Test the generator on full tilt for 30 minutes
  • Test of all electronics on board
  • Visual appearance in and out of the water. Water intrusion under decks and hulls is the #1 issue to look for.
  • Check the fiberglass / laminate for any hollow sounds when tapped
  • Check for scratches and cracks
  • Check for cracks or damage around fittings
  • Check for any damage on and around hatches
  • Check condition of handrails
  • Check to make sure cleats are secure and in good shape
  • Check for any rust
  • Check the condition of the deck (soft spots / delamination)
  • Check the condition of the hull
  • Look for bubbling in the paint
  • Check the condition of the zinc anodes
  • Check the bearings of the rudder
  • Check the overall rudder
  • Check seating and upholstery for any mold / mildew / tears
  • Check the helm for any damages
  • Check the steering wheel
  • Wear and Tear / condition as well as functions of all the lights, head, kitchens, etc. are important.
  • Check the condition of lockers
  • Check the condition of trims, stairs, flooring
  • Check for damage to doors and portholes
  • Check lights and switches
  • Check TV, speakers and any other extras
  • Check toilet, sink and shower for water pressure and quality
  • Check appliances for interior or exterior damage
  • Check to ensure that appliances are bolted and mounted
  • Check for leaks in fridge
  • Check temperature in fridge / freezer
  • Test all appliances to make sure they work
  • Check expiration date of fire extinguisher
  • Check marine radio
  • Check bilge pump
  • Check condition of life jackets and any expiry dates
  • Check oars and any other manual propulsion tools
  • Check the flares
  • Check to see if the marine radio is working
  • Check condition of heaving line and lifebuoy(s)
  • Check condition of first aid kit
  • Check condition of Anchor and chain as well as its attachment to vessel
  • Acceleration
  • Trim tab function
  • Vibrations
  • Leaks while underway