Canal Boatbuilders Association

Buying a boat, whether that be new or second-hand, is a major purchase and the CBA 

recommend that you think carefully before buying.

 

If buying second-hand, then consider instructing a marine surveyor to conduct a close inspection 

before buying the boat, and ensuring that any deposit paid is fully refundable 'subject to survey'.  

Surveys can cover just the hull or can cover the whole boat or anything in between, depending 

upon your circumstances and budget. It is not recommended that you rely upon a BSS Certificate 

alone as this only shows that the boat met the Boat Safety Scheme requirements on the day it 

was issued and that these requirements don't cover the hull or engine!  

 

If buying new, then consider instructing a marine surveyor to hold your hand during the process. 

A good surveyor can look at your ideas before work commences, keep an eye on progress and 

help to ensure that payments made to the boatbuilder are in-line with the work completed & 

purchases made. As an independent person, the surveyor can also help confirm details to such 

as finance companies. When complete, the surveyor can confirm that your boat meets the 

necessary requirements for navigation. 

 

You may think that this is unnecessary for a new boat build, as you get on well with the 

boatbuilder and they are a CBA member.  However, remember that no matter how friendly or 

respected, they are a commercial operation relying upon your and other buyers custom, and 

things can go wrong with any business that may result in you losing money.   Instructing a 

surveyor may not prevent this, but it's a good idea to reduce the likelihood. In addition, although 

the boat has to meet the requirements of the Recreational Craft Directive, for inland waterway 

craft this is by self-certification and no matter how conscientious the boatbuilder, things can be 

missed and an independent view can minimise problems with compliance. Hence, instructing a 

marine surveyor is a procedure that the CBA recommends.

 

The CBA not only has boatbuilder members but only Marine Surveyors that can offer the 

services mentioned above. Just search under Surveyors on the home page for a full list.