There are a few factors which make for a good survey, it is very much about the surveyor:
- knowing what is being asked for; either a risk assessment, condition survey or other specification.
- having the knowledge of various ships and machinery and what causes claims.
- having the ability to talk to vessel officers and ratings, company shore based managers and senior company officers.
- writing a first class report, written for the end user such as underwriters or ship owners in a concise manner using plain language.
- being honest and having integrity, to give a fair survey.
At the moment I am the only InserveMS surveyor based in London. Two former Inserve surveyors who are based in the Far East can carry out surveys but only if this is satisfactory to the client. We have all been at sea, either as a chief engineer or captain. We have all been surveying for more than ten years.
InserveMS is a different surveying company because:
- InserveMS is a small surveying company but with a global reach. You will be able to contact the attending InserveMS surveyor before, during and after the survey.
- with both years of experience at sea and surveying, we understand the seafarer’s perspective and also the needs of ship owners, underwriters and brokers.
- a one off block costing with no hidden or after survey costs is given as a quote. We can respond very quickly to instructions and change of ports calls etc. Our quotes are very competitive and are all inclusive (except local transport, agent’s disbursements and the cost of a launch if needed). We try to keep flight, accommodation and travel costs as low as possible.
- I have surveyed around the world for 17 years carrying out H&M, P&I, pre purchase and other marine surveys on all manner of vessels.
- InserveMS reports are issued in PDF format with hyperlinks and follow a specific template, created for shipowners and underwriters. We do not use checklists.
- Inserve was known for surveying unusual and specialised vessels
Surveying is all about the experience, knowledge and skill of the surveyor.
As part of the team, administration support is provided by Joanna Postles. She is available when I am not. Having been at sea for four years she has more seatime than most surveyors in other companies!