How to Prepare Your Boat Purchase for Inspection: Buyer and Broker Checklist

Timeline: Who Prepares What—and When

Preparation is shared by the buyer, broker, and seller. Start 7–10 days before inspection day, especially if a haul-out and sea trial are planned.

• 7–10 days out: Confirm inspection scope and date, request records from the seller, book haul-out with a local yard, and tentatively plan the sea trial window.
• 3–5 days out: Verify yard authorization, confirm operator/insurance for the sea trial, check shore power availability, and confirm keys and access.
• 1–2 days out: Ensure batteries are charged, tanks have adequate fuel and water, lockers and bilges are clear, and any personal locks/covers are removed.
• Morning of: Connect shore power if available, make lines and fenders ready for movement, and have documentation on board or ready digitally.

Document Readiness

Complete records help the surveyor understand the boat’s history and verify equipment and identification details.

• Prior surveys: Any previous pre-purchase or insurance surveys and follow-up work.
• Maintenance records: Invoices and notes for hull, deck, rigging (if applicable), electrical, plumbing, and safety gear maintenance.
• Engine service logs: Oil changes, impellers, cooling service, alignments, exhaust work, and hour readings.
• Equipment list: A current inventory of included gear—electronics, safety equipment, tenders, sails, canvas, and spares.
• Titles and registrations: Vessel title/registration, HIN confirmation, and documentation for engines and trailers if applicable.

Access and Power on Inspection Day

Full access and reliable power prevent delays and retesting.

• Keys and codes: Provide keys for companionways, cabins, fuel and water lockers, engine rooms, and electronics. Share gate/marina access codes.
• Shore power: Ensure a compatible shore power pedestal is available and cords/adapters are aboard and functional.
• Batteries charged: Charge house and start batteries in advance. If on a float charger, verify the charger is operational.
• Fuel levels: Carry enough clean fuel for the sea trial and to safely run generators/heaters as needed.
• Water supply: Have potable water aboard if freshwater systems and pumps will be tested. Confirm dock water access for rinse-downs if needed.

Seller Coordination for Clear Access

Clutter and locked spaces slow inspections and can prevent evaluation of critical areas.

• Declutter: Clear gear from lockers, under-berth storage, and lazarettes. Leave bilge areas accessible.
• Remove personal locks/covers: Open or remove any private locks, canvas enclosures, or protective boards that block access to engines, tanks, batteries, or structural areas.
• Loose floorboards and panels: Ensure hatches and inspection panels can be lifted safely. Provide tools if specialty fasteners are used.
• Visibility: Dry wet areas where safe to do so, and provide lighting if the vessel’s interior is dim.

Haul-Out Logistics in the Seattle Area

Haul-outs require early coordination with local yards, especially during busy seasons.

• Scheduling: Book a lift slot in advance and confirm travel time from the marina to the yard.
• Tide and draft: Consider Puget Sound tidal windows for deeper draft vessels. Allow buffer time for currents and traffic.
• Bottom cleaning: Ask the yard about pressure washing before the bottom inspection. A clean surface can improve accuracy.
• Yard authorization and costs: Ensure the yard has written authorization to haul and that the responsible party is set for yard fees and any add-on services.
• Blocked time: Confirm how long the boat can remain blocked for hull inspection to avoid rush decisions.

Sea Trial Planning on Puget Sound

Plan a route and time window that allow safe, efficient system observations.

• Insurance and operator: Confirm that the vessel is insured for a sea trial and that a qualified operator, seller, or broker will run the boat.
• Route selection: Choose a route with space to vary speeds, check steering and controls, and safely perform turns and reverse maneuvers. Avoid congested transits when possible.
• Weather windows: Monitor marine forecasts for wind, visibility, and sea state. Strong tidal currents and afternoon winds in Puget Sound can affect handling and test conditions.
• Warm-up time: Allow adequate engine warm-up at the dock before departing.

Safety and Environmental Considerations

Follow marina and yard rules to protect people and local waters.

• PPE and yard policies: Adhere to posted requirements such as closed-toe shoes, hard hats in lift areas, and restricted zones.
• Fuel and oil handling: Do not refuel during inspection. Report any leaks to the yard immediately.
• Bilge and overboard discharges: Avoid overboard discharges. Confirm seacocks are operable and hoses secure before running systems.
• Secure decks: Keep decks clear of trip hazards when opening hatches and lifting floorboards.
• Lines and fenders: Stage fenders and lines for docking transitions between marina, yard, and sea trial.

Who Should Attend and How the Day Flows

Attendance varies, but clarity helps everyone stay efficient.

• Who attends: Buyer or buyer’s broker is typically present. The seller or seller’s broker should be available to provide access and vessel operation support.
• Typical duration: Plan several hours for onboard inspection, plus additional time for haul-out and sea trial if included. Durations vary with vessel size and complexity.
• Questions on-site: Most questions can be addressed during the inspection or after specific tests. A written report with photos and recommendations follows.

After the Inspection: Report and Next Steps

Use the written report to prioritize decisions and negotiations.

• Review the report: Read the narrative, photo documentation, and list of recommended actions. Clarify any items with your broker.
• Prioritize findings: Separate safety-critical issues from maintenance items and cosmetic notes.
• Plan follow-ups: If needed, coordinate additional evaluations (e.g., engine diagnostics or rigging tune) through qualified providers.
• Negotiate: Use the findings to discuss repairs, escrow holds, or price adjustments with the seller through your broker.