In this article we will discuss about precautionary steps that should be taken during buying a salvage or a hurricane damaged boat. Let’s begin.
Check History of the Boat
Similar to the categorization of used cars as salvage or rebuilt, boats are also categorized as salvage or rebuilt. It is done depending on their history and the cost or chances of reparability. Therefore, before buying a used boat, trace and minutely check its history, ownership pattern and the extent of damage it has suffered in the past.
Question the Seller
In many states, sellers don’t need to disclose any information about the salvage boat. Until you ask the seller, it is very difficult to get all the answers related to the boat, you need to know. Most often sellers will advertise the positive aspects of the boat first. Therefore, before the purchase of a salvage boat, ask the seller and get clarity about the boat’s full history.
Check out the Evidence of Storm Damage
It is always advisable not to buy a boat that seems badly damaged due to a storm or hurricane. If you inspect it thoroughly, you may find three types of evidences that prove the boat was badly damaged due to storm or hurricane. These points are:
Latest Repair of Hull
Hull is the most sensitive part of any boat. Any damage on it is enough to be certain that the boat has received a serious damage. In auctions where salvage boats are for sale, auctioneer might repair the hull and bring it for sale. Before you purchase a salvage boat, look at the hull and the nearby area for any color mismatch. This way you can be sure if there is any history of damage in the boat.
New Repairs at the Hull-to-Deck Joint
Damage due to storms often leaves its marks in the hull-to-deck joint area of the boat. Before purchasing salvage boats, inspect this area and don’t go ahead with the deal if the extent of damage is large.
Corrosion in the Electrical System
Any corrosion in the electrical system such as connectors, lamps, breaker panels, shows that the boat has suffered damages in past due to sinking or drowning. It also means that its restoration might incur huge amount of money.
Conclusion
You should not purchase salvage boats with a history of extreme damage or whose restoration might be an expensive affair. By following the above mentioned points, you can easily inspect salvage boats and opt for a good one without much hassle.