How are rigging and sails inspected?
The rig is given a close visual inspection from deck level, which is common practice among surveyors nationwide. For an additional fee inspection of the rig aloft can be included as part of the survey, however it does involve additional time, difficulties, and prior arrangements. A thorough deck level inspection is normally adequate to determine the vessel’s overall condition and value, however there are numerous cases (extended cruising, offshore passage, etc) in which you’ll want a full inspection performed by a qualified rigger. Some underwriters require an aloft inspection of the rig (particularly when upgrading to a “blue water” type insurance) so be sure to ask what’s required by your policy. Sails are given a general inspection as found (i.e. bagged or furled), which is normally adequate for a typical pre-purchase survey. Weather permitting, we may have the owner or broker hoist the main or unfurl a jib, however in most cases we will recommend all sails be given a complete inspe
