BoatU.S. Boat Checklist for Buyers and Sellers

Evaluating a boat’s condition before purchase makes it easier for the prospective owner to say “good buy” or “good bye” to a deal. Likewise, an objective eye for problems that need to be corrected makes it easier to prepare a boat for sale.

Use this checklist to make a preliminary evaluation. We suggest using a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 = poor and 5 = excellent. Take a good hard look at what shape the boat is in. Is it clean? Are there signs of rust, hull blisters, peeling paint or varnish, previous repairs, cracks or corrosion? Don’t forget to check operating gear like winches, steering systems, running and standing rigging on sailboats, lights, head and galley equipment, electronics and instrumentation. Start up the engine and take a sea trial. Check for compliance with U.S. Coast Guard safety equipment requirements listed on www.boatus.com/guide/b_cgreq.asp.

This checklist is NOT a substitute for inspections by a competent marine surveyor and a marine engine mechanic. For more information go to www.boatus.com/guide/b_seatrials.asp.