You can get caught up in the excitement of buying a boat. You can lose your critical edge and not ask the same questions you would for a vehicle or a home. Most costly mistakes occur before you even write a check. Make sure you take your time during this process.
Work out the real cost first
The price is just the beginning. What will it cost you to keep the boat every year? You need to factor in mooring fees, insurance, licenses from the NA, routine maintenance, fuel, and the cost to remove the boat from the water. For a lot of boats, that number is more than people expect. You need to know that number first, then set your budget for the boat.
Figure out where you will keep the boat, first. In popular areas, marina berths can have waiting lists, so see Where to Keep a Boat.
Check who owns it
Because there is not a central registry for boats like there is for cars, it’s up to you to ensure the seller is the true owner of the boat. Ask for the bill of sale of when they purchased the boat, receipts for work done to the boat, and any financing documents. If the boat was financed, ensure that the financing has been paid off.
Look at the paperwork
Boats used on canal and river networks maintained by the Environment Agency and Canal & River Trust are legally required to display a Boat Safety Scheme (BSS) certificate. The certificate is mandatory every four years, and a valid BSS is required to apply for a boat licence. Ask the seller when the BSS expires. New BSS certificates are given with new boats.
Service history records and any previous condition survey reports and when the hull was last blacked or antifouled are also worth requesting. Generally speaking, the better the records kept by the seller, the better the care taken of the boat.
Have it surveyed
It is important you never skip this step. A marine surveyor will inspect the boat to check the hull, engine, electrics, safety equipment and give you a report with their findings. Many insurance companies require the report to insure an older boat.
Our article on marine surveys describes the various surveys and how to use the reports. In the event that defects are revealed in the survey, you can ask the seller to correct the defects, reduce the price, or walk away.
Take it out
Ask for a trial run. Listen to the engine once it’s warmed up and check for smoke. Make sure everything works, including the bilge pump and lights. On a narrowboat, check the stern gland and look in the engine bay for water or oil.
Buying privately or through a broker
A private sale is usually cheaper, but there is less protection if anything goes wrong. A broker will handle some of the paperwork, usually holds the money until the sale is complete, and does some ownership checks. You will always need a survey, regardless. A broker works for the seller.
Once you’ve bought it, the work begins. See Boat Maintenance for what needs doing and how often.