SSR Help needed

[DavidofMersea]

I am proposing to buy a boat. I have seen a boat that I fancy and I see that it has a SSR number.

Whilst I have heard of the SSR, I know very little about it.

Can I check title on the SSR? Can I check outstanding debts on the SSR.

Is there anything else that I should or can do, either now or after purchase?

 

[capsco]

I am afraid SSR is no use to you as far as checking title or outstanding debt, it is only usefull to present to foreign officials when asked for ships papers.

 

[snowleopard]

It has been known for thieves to re-register on SSR in their name before stealing the boat! It says on the certificate "This does not constitute proof of ownership"

 

[Birdseye]

SSR is simply a piece of paper provided to satisfy the beurocrats in places like Portugal where they expect all boats to have papers they can inspect. Proves only that you have paid the SSR fee.

The full registration allows you to check title and will show if there is a mortgage registered against the boat. It will not show any liens such as unpaid yard bills that attach to the boat. So its a comfort not a guarantee.

Best thing is to make sure the chap who sells the boat is a well established houseowner ie someone you can sue if there is a problem. And make sure you use a proper bill of sale.

First time I bought privately, I did a deal with a broker that he processed the paperwork for £50 split between me and the seller. The broker checked all docs.

 

[suziekatie27]

thank you all so much for your help im getting wiser to this boat buying its driving me mad any way i have decided not to purchase that boat as he cant produce any other documents and even his address came up saying he does not live there thanks for advice sue you have been more help than you know

 

[A1Sailor]

The RYA website at www.rya.org.uk has a lot of advice on buying/selling boats, although I'm not sure how much of it is restricted to members