Any insurers not requiring a survey?

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Mandarin331

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We are hoping to buy a small (23') GRP trailer sailor next week, which is in good condition. In the past we've used GJW but they require a survey for any boat over 30 years old (and this is 34).
As surveys cost £500 upwards this is a large proportion of the cost of purchase. I've read that there are insurers out there who don't need a survey but don't have any names, can anyone recommend one?
 
Many thanks for your input, much appreciated. I found Y Yacht (Topsail) who look promising, I'll ring them on Monday. Both Noble and Haven Knox require at least an initial survey according to their FAQs.
 
You are unlikely to get insurance for a 34 year old boat as a new applicant. A boat of this age will almost certainly require new rigging if there is no evidence that it has been replaced in the last 10m years. Insurers are generally being much more picky than they used to be making full all risks insurance very difficult for older, lower value boats. Just been through this, survey was around £400 and essential work about £2k , although I am actually spending more as will be keeping the boat for a few years. Third Party is cheap - well under £200.
 
Mandarin331 said:
Many thanks for your input, much appreciated. I found Y Yacht (Topsail) who look promising, I'll ring them on Monday. Both Noble and Haven Knox require at least an initial survey according to their FAQs.
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We're with Topail. Old Y yacht policy was with Amlin but they would only do 3rd party this October renewal, excluding salvage and pollution, no mention of survey. Had two alternative quotes, Pants wanted survey before cover so no time, N & G via Topsail virtually same price but survey before renewal this year which we're doing in March. We're limited by insurers who will offer cover as we're not UK based and on swing mooring, in commission 12/12.
 
I insured my then 40 year-old 24 footer with Bishop Skinner. They wanted photos showing the condition of the boat. This was repeated every 3 to 5 years,. But never asked for a survey. The policy had a clause which required I took 'all reasonable steps' to ensure the boat was in seaworthy condition. So how do you prove that? I paid a boatbuilder to inspect and give me a written opinio n. A fraction of the cost of a Survey,and provides actual evidence you tried!
 
Noble Marine Ltd.

52-year old Twister 28' sloop. Last surveyed 2002. Insured value £15,000. Premium £172.00 for comprehensive cover plus legal expenses.
 
I am with Topsail ( Y yacht insurance that was). I have already been told that if I renew with them this year I will require an out of water survey. My boat has reached 30 years of age, from memory I am fairly sure they wanted sight of a survey 7 years ago when i bought her.
 
Been with Trafford’s for years, ways to deal with ie you can actually speak with someone who knows what they’re talking about
 
ICTM said:
I am with Topsail ( Y yacht insurance that was). I have already been told that if I renew with them this year I will require an out of water survey. My boat has reached 30 years of age, from memory I am fairly sure they wanted sight of a survey 7 years ago when i bought her.
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We had the same with Topsail at this years renewal, next renewal need out of water survey. 6 years ago photos were ok, boat 1986
 
Thanks for all the input, GJW and Nav & General both offered prices without survey due to size and value, however in the end the current owners' insurers agreed to keep insuring the boat without a survey so we'll go with that for the first year.
 
Mandarin331 said:
Thanks for all the input, GJW and Nav & General both offered prices without survey due to size and value, however in the end the current owners' insurers agreed to keep insuring the boat without a survey so we'll go with that for the first year.
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That was a result.
I am in a similar position. Topsail (formerly Y). They are requiring a survey before renewal next month. Boat now 30 years old.
Problem is the boat is in La Roche Bernard. So I need a surveyor who is prepared to travel out or work off photos maybe.
Any suggestions?
 
Talulah said:
That was a result.
I am in a similar position. Topsail (formerly Y). They are requiring a survey before renewal next month. Boat now 30 years old.
Problem is the boat is in La Roche Bernard. So I need a surveyor who is prepared to travel out or work off photos maybe.
Any suggestions?
Click to expand...
Have you considered Damian at Morbihan Yacht Surveys?

I have not employed him myself but I have corresponded with him regarding a possible tonnage survey and he responded quickly to my enquiry and seemed enthusiastic.

Unfortunately, I can't remember who recommended him to me.

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