Professional Yacht Survey, Owner Representation, and Consultation
Damage Survey
Damage Surveys and Investigation
Damage Surveys & Investigation
We provide comprehensive damage surveys to assess the extent of damage, identify necessary repairs, and determine the root cause of the incident. Whether due to collision, grounding, fire, flooding, or structural failure, our expert yacht damage inspections help ensure that repairs are carried out correctly and in line with industry standards.
Our surveys offer critical support for both owners and insurers, providing detailed reports that facilitate insurance claims, repair planning, structural surveys and dispute resolution.
Who We Work With
We can be instructed directly by the vessel owner or by the insurer, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. Our impartial and detailed assessments help all parties understand the full scope of the damage and the best course of action for repairs.
What Our Damage Surveys Cover
Each survey is tailored to the specific incident, but typically includes:
- Structural & Hull Integrity Assessment: Inspecting for fractures, delamination, impact damage, or water ingress.
- Mechanical & Electrical System Evaluation: Checking engines, generators, electrical systems, and fuel or hydraulic lines for damage.
- Mast & Rigging Failures: Investigating dismastings, standing and running rigging failures, and corrosion-related issues.
- Collision & Impact Damage: Assessing structural failures resulting from contact with other vessels, fixed objects, or severe weather events.
- Lightning Strike Damage: Evaluating electrical system failure, hull integrity, and any secondary effects of a lightning strike.
- Grounding & Keel Damage: Examining potential hull breaches, keel detachment, rudder damage, or compromised stability.
- Fire & Water Damage: Assessing the extent of fire, smoke, or flooding damage and its impact on structural and mechanical components.
Damage Investigation
In addition to assessing the extent of damage, we also provide in-depth damage investigation services to determine the cause of failure and identify any underlying factors that contributed to the incident.
Our damage investigation process includes:
- Root Cause Analysis: Examining all available evidence to determine why the failure occurred—whether due to material defects, poor maintenance, operational errors, or external factors.
- Forensic Examination: Utilizing non-destructive testing techniques, thermal imaging, and advanced diagnostics to uncover hidden structural or mechanical weaknesses.
- Incident Reconstruction: Where necessary, we conduct an in-depth analysis of the sequence of events leading up to the damage, including weather conditions, operational history, and onboard system data.
- Manufacturer & Warranty Considerations: Identifying whether the failure was due to a manufacturing defect, improper installation, or inadequate maintenance, which can support warranty claims or negotiations with shipyards.
- Expert Witness Services: If required, we can provide professional, independent reports for use in insurance disputes, legal proceedings, or arbitration cases.
Understanding not just what was damaged, but why it happened is essential to preventing recurrence and ensuring the long-term safety and reliability of the vessel.
Survey Process & Reporting
Our thorough and systematic approach ensures that all findings are documented in detail, providing clear guidance on the necessary steps for repair. Our process typically includes:
- On-Site Inspection: A detailed examination of the vessel, using non-destructive testing methods where applicable.
- Damage Documentation: High-resolution photographs, thermal imaging (if needed), and condition reports.
- Cause & Extent Analysis: Investigation into the origin of the failure or damage and how it has affected the vessel as a whole.
- Recommendations & Repair Guidance: Providing a structured report with repair recommendations, cost estimates (if required), and advice on preventing future incidents.
- Support for Insurers & Owners: Assisting with insurance claims, negotiation with shipyards or repair facilities, and ensuring all work meets necessary safety and certification standards.
Whether dealing with minor damage or significant structural failures, our expert damage surveys and investigationsprovide owners and insurers with the information and guidance needed to proceed with confidence.
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