Marine Surveys
H&M and P&I Surveys
Hull & Machinery (H&M) and Protection & Indemnity (P&I) surveys are conducted to assess damage, liability, or risk in the event of incidents such as collisions, groundings, fire, flooding, or cargo claims. These surveys support insurers, P&I Clubs, and shipowners by providing objective technical evaluations essential for claims handling, prevention, and legal proceedings.
Survey Methods Include:
- Thorough visual examination
- Ultrasonic thickness measurements
- Metallurgical analysis
- Oil analysis
- Moisture readings and percussion testing
- Reverse engineering (Laser scanner)
Condition and Pre-purchase Surveys
These surveys provide a comprehensive assessment of a vessel’s overall condition, including hull structure, machinery, systems, and maintenance status.
Pre-purchase surveys are essential before acquiring a vessel, offering buyers a clear understanding of its technical state and any potential issues. The findings support informed decision-making and accurate valuation.
Damage or accident survey
This is a focused, party-appointed inspection aimed at determining the extent of damage sustained by the vessel, understanding the circumstances of the incident, and providing an objective estimate of repair costs.
It may be commissioned either by the insurance company to support or contest a claim or by the vessel owner, in response to the insurer’s position.
Collision survey
A collision survey is a targeted investigation carried out to assess the extent and probable cause of damage resulting from an impact between vessels or with fixed structures (e.g., piers, breakwaters, navigation aids). The survey includes a detailed inspection of the affected areas of the hull, superstructure, internal systems, propulsion and steering components.
The objective is to document the damage precisely, determine the mechanics of the incident, and provide a technically supported estimate of repair costs and downtime. The survey involves analysis of operational data, such as VDR (Voyage Data Recorder) records, AIS tracks, and logbooks, as well as interviews with crew members to reconstruct the sequence of events.
Fire and Flooding Surveys
A fire and flooding survey is a specialized inspection aimed at evaluating the extent, origin, and impact of fire- or water-related incidents aboard a vessel. These surveys are essential for understanding the root cause of the event, documenting structural and systemic damage, and estimating the costs of restoration, downtime, or total loss.