Independent Technical Surveys
Marine Survey / Technical Inspections
INS has qualified surveyors who bring technical expertise, industry knowledge, and independent objectivity to a multitude of high‑value vessels and other marine floating objects. We use sophisticated equipment to determine the condition of various aspects.
The benefits of a pre‑purchase condition and valuation survey include an independent, non‑biased opinion of the vessel or object for purchase or valuation, assessment of the actual condition prior to a transaction, or the provision of an independent valuation.
On‑ and off‑hire surveys of vessels and objects state the actual condition, existing damage, and any bunkers on board. This gives the lessor and the lessee a correct statement at the agreed time and place.
Towing and warranty surveys are carried out by an experienced INS surveyor who, in accordance with insurers, ensures the smooth operation of transport, follows up, and witnesses safe sailing conditions. Sometimes this is done in combination with the lashing and securing of heavy equipment on board.
The INS marine surveyor / superintendent can assist officers with loading and unloading operations. This may involve special or heavy objects, bulk cargo, or dangerous cargo. We can witness that the entire process follows rigorous international standards.
An external audit should be seen as an evaluation moment, providing an unbiased view of the actual status, and should not only record findings but also help maintain high standards and improve operations.
TECHNICAL DUE DILIGENCE
Pre-Purchase & Vessel Condition Surveys
A pre-purchase condition survey includes (depending on the type of vessel).
Our in-depth inspections provide clarity and confidence prior to commitment.
Detailed examinations include:
- Structural Integrity: Assessment of hull condition, plating thickness measurements, corrosion evaluation, and watertight integrity.
- Propulsion, steering, and machinery: Inspection and measurement and, where possible, recommendation of a trial trip and operational testing.
- Technical installations: Inspection and testing of systems on board, including special equipment.
- Cargo holds (if applicable): Evaluation of suitability for the intended purpose. Please provide information on the intended use.
- Safety Equipment: Review of life-saving appliances, fire protection systems, navigational aids, and communication equipment.
- Instruments and Electrical Installations: Examination of power distribution systems, batteries, cabling condition, and control panels.
- Documentation, Certification, and Maintenance Record Verification: An inventory is made of certification status, relevant documentation on board, and maintenance and repair records.
- Valuation Analysis: Determination of current market value based on age, specification, condition, and comparable market evidence.
Pre-Purchase & Vessel Condition Surveys
On-Hire & Off-Hire Surveys
Handover Records
On-Hire & Off-Hire Surveys
Charter arrangements and short-term fleet solutions require precise condition recording at delivery and redelivery stages to avoid disputes afterwards.
- On-hire surveys establish a detailed baseline of the vessel’s condition and bunker quantities and equipment at the point in time of handover. This service extends beyond conventional vessels to include pontoons, barges, technical equipment, and containers.
- Off-hire surveys document the condition upon redelivery, identifying any additional damage, deterioration, or variations in bunker quantities or equipment of the vessel or object.
Tow & Heavy Lift
Specialised Operational Surveys
Tow Surveys
Intending to relocate a vessel, pontoon, or offshore structure under tow?
A tow warranty surveyor shall assist in determining the condition and confirming that the operation can be carried out safely and responsibly. We are recognised as a marine warranty surveyor by numerous leading insurance underwriters. Our tow surveys include detailed evaluation of:
- Seaworthiness of both the towing vessel and the object to be towed.
- Integrity of watertight compartments, hatches, and closing appliances.
- Towing gear, bridles, shackles, and connection points.
- Stability calculations for the vessel or object in the towed configuration.
- Weather routing and passage planning considerations.
- Compliance with applicable regulations governing towage operations.
- Bollard pull verification and suitability of the towing arrangement.
- Guidance on risk mitigation relating to piracy and stowaway concerns.
- Issuance of the Tow Survey / Warranty Certificate once all conditions conform for departure.
We confirm that the vessel or structure is correctly prepared for departure, reducing the likelihood of water ingress, structural failure, or loss during transit. The surveyor shall follow up the sailing and assist when required.
Heavy Lift Surveys, Transport Warranty, Lashing and Securing
Complex cargo and lifting operations require rigorous engineering review and independent oversight. Our heavy lift and transport warranty surveys provide detailed assessments of:
- Structural capability of the vessel for the intended load.
- Comprehensive stability calculations for proposed loading conditions.
- Verification of crane specifications and lifting appliance capacities.
- Load distribution plans and evaluation of deck strength, securing arrangements, and sea fastening systems.
- Compliance with relevant safety regulations.
- Witnessing correct lashing and securing as per the Method Statement.
These surveys are intended to mitigate the risk of accidents, structural damage, or stability failures during demanding operations involving project cargo, abnormal loads, or exceptionally heavy components.
Specialised Operational Surveys
Safety & Transshipment Survey
Superintendent Service
Safety Surveys / Transshipment Survey
Our surveyor / inspector superintendent makes sure that operations are carried out under safe conditions and that safety regulations are followed.
This can be for the transfer of special objects, liquid and non-liquid cargo, including dangerous goods. The surveyor assists the vessel officers and can document the process.
Local knowledge ensures smooth communication with all stakeholders.
Compliance Checks
Audit
The pressure on board has increased with additional duties for the crew. Having an onboard audit can train the crew to detect deficiencies and comply with stringent due diligence requirements.
Several major charterers, operators, and insurers require a vessel audit as a major condition of the contract. Audits can be conducted for all these stakeholders, and our goal is to improve performance.
Audit
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Contact us today to discuss your survey requirements and ensure your assets are properly protected and documented.
MARINE SURVEYS
Why Choose INS Survey Services?
Vessels are complex assets with hidden defects that visual inspection alone cannot detect. Our qualified surveyors bring technical expertise, industry knowledge, and independent objectivity. We identify problems before they become your problems, potentially saving you tens or hundreds of thousands in avoided repairs, renegotiated purchase prices, or prevented operational failures.
Our detailed reports provide authoritative documentation for lenders, insurers, and classification societies, facilitating smooth transactions and establishing proper condition records from the start of your ownership or charter period.
Contact us today to discuss your insurance survey requirements and ensure your assets are properly protected and documented.