Independent Technical Surveys
Marine Survey / Technical Inspections
INS operates with a team of qualified surveyors who combine technical expertise, industry knowledge, and independent judgement across a wide range of high‑value vessels and floating assets.
Using modern equipment and proven inspection methods, we assess the condition of critical components and provide clear, reliable evaluations.
A pre‑purchase, condition, or valuation survey offers an independent and objective view of a vessel’s true state prior to transaction. This supports informed decision‑making, helps establish fair value, and reduces the risk of unexpected costs.
On‑hire and off‑hire surveys document the condition of vessels or assets at agreed points in time, including any damage and bunker quantities on board. This provides both parties with a clear and mutually accepted record at the start and end of a charter or project.
For towing operations and warranty surveys, our experienced surveyors work in line with insurer requirements to support safe and efficient transport. This includes overseeing preparation, monitoring the operation, and confirming that all conditions for safe passage are met. Where required, we also verify the proper securing and lashing of heavy or specialised equipment.
In addition, INS surveyors and superintendents can support loading and unloading operations, particularly for specialised, heavy, bulk, or hazardous cargo. We monitor and, where necessary, witness operations to ensure they are carried out in accordance with recognised international standards.
Pre-Purchase & Vessel Condition Surveys
TECHNICAL DUE DILIGENCE
Pre-Purchase & Vessel Condition Surveys
A pre‑purchase or condition survey provides a clear and objective understanding of a vessel’s condition prior to any commitment. The scope of the inspection is tailored to the type of vessel and the intended use.
Our in‑depth assessments are designed to give clients confidence, clarity, and a reliable basis for decision‑making.
Scope of inspection
Our surveys typically include:
- Structural integrity: Assessment of hull condition, plate thickness measurements, corrosion levels, and overall watertight integrity
- Propulsion, steering, and machinery: Inspection and evaluation of main and auxiliary systems, with sea trials and operational testing recommended where possible
- Onboard technical systems: Examination and testing of vessel systems, including specialised equipment
- Cargo holding spaces (where applicable): Evaluation of suitability for intended cargo operations, based on the client’s requirements
- Safety equipment: Review of life‑saving appliances, fire‑fighting systems, navigation equipment, and communication systems
- Electrical and instrumentation systems: Inspection of power distribution, batteries, cabling, and control panels
- Documentation and certification review: Verification of statutory certificates, onboard documentation, and maintenance and repair records
- Valuation analysis: Assessment of current market value based on age, specifications, condition, and comparable market data
Our reports combine technical detail with clear conclusions, allowing clients to fully understand the condition of the asset, identify potential risks, and proceed with confidence.
On-Hire & Off-Hire Surveys
Handover Records
On-Hire & Off-Hire Surveys
Accurate condition recording at both delivery and redelivery stages is essential for charter agreements and short‑term fleet solutions. Clear documentation helps prevent disputes and ensures transparency between all parties involved.
Our services include
- On‑hire surveys: Establishing a detailed and agreed baseline of the vessel’s condition at the time of handover, including bunker quantities, onboard equipment, and overall condition.
This service applies not only to conventional vessels but also to pontoons, barges, technical equipment, and containers. - Off‑hire surveys: Documenting the condition upon redelivery, identifying any damage, deterioration, or changes in bunker quantities and equipment during the charter period.
Our surveys provide clear, objective records at key transition points, supporting fair agreements and reducing the risk of disputes between parties.
Specialised Operational Surveys
Tow & Heavy Lift
Specialised Operational Surveys
Tow Surveys
Planning to relocate a vessel, pontoon, or offshore structure under tow?
An experienced tow warranty surveyor is essential to assess whether the operation can be carried out safely and responsibly. Early involvement is highly recommended. INS is recognised as a marine warranty surveyor by leading international insurance underwriters.
Our tow surveys include a comprehensive evaluation of:
- Seaworthiness of both the towing vessel and the object being towed
- Integrity of watertight compartments, hatches, and closing systems
- Inspection of towing gear, including bridles, shackles, and connection points
- Stability calculations for the proposed towing configuration
- Assessment of weather routing and passage planning
- Compliance with applicable towage regulations and standards
- Verification of bollard pull and suitability of the towing arrangement
- Guidance on risk mitigation, including piracy and stowaway considerations
Once all requirements are met, we issue the Tow Survey / Warranty Certificate, confirming readiness for departure.
Our surveys ensure that the vessel or structure is properly prepared, reducing the risk of water ingress, structural damage, or loss during transit. Where required, our surveyors remain involved during the voyage to provide ongoing support.
Heavy Lift Surveys, Transport Warranty, Lashing and Securing
Complex lifting and transport operations require careful engineering assessment and independent oversight. Our heavy lift and transport warranty surveys provide detailed evaluation of:
- The structural capacity of the vessel in relation to the intended load
- Stability calculations for planned loading conditions
- Verification of crane specifications and lifting capacities
- Assessment of load distribution, deck strength, and sea fastening systems
- Evaluation of lashing and securing arrangements
- Compliance with relevant safety standards and regulations
- On‑site witnessing of lashing and securing operations, in line with approved method statements
These surveys are designed to minimise operational risk, helping to prevent accidents, structural damage, or stability failures during demanding operations involving project cargo, oversized loads, or heavy components.
Safety & Transshipment Survey
Superintendent Service
Safety Surveys / Transshipment Survey
Our surveyors and superintendents ensure that operations are carried out safely and in full compliance with applicable regulations and procedures.
We support operations involving the transfer of specialised equipment, liquid and non‑liquid cargo, and hazardous goods. Our surveyors work alongside vessel crews, providing practical guidance and, where required, documenting the process.
With strong local knowledge and on‑site presence, we facilitate clear and efficient communication between all stakeholders, contributing to smooth and well‑coordinated operations.
Compliance Checks
We also perform compliance checks to verify that operations and procedures meet relevant standards, helping to ensure safety, efficiency, and regulatory alignment.
Audit
Compliance Checks
Audit
Increasing regulatory requirements and operational demands place growing pressure on vessel crews. An onboard audit provides valuable support by helping crews identify deficiencies and strengthen compliance with rigorous due diligence standards.
Many major charterers, operators, and insurers now require vessel audits as a key condition for contractual agreements. INS conducts audits on behalf of these stakeholders, providing independent assessments and practical recommendations.
Our objective is not only to verify compliance, but also to enhance overall performance, safety, and operational efficiency on board.
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SPEAK TO OUR EXPERTS
Contact us today to discuss your survey requirements and ensure your assets are properly protected and documented.
MARINE SURVEYS
Why Choose INS Survey Services?
Vessels are complex assets, and underlying issues are not always visible through standard visual inspection. Our qualified surveyors combine technical expertise, industry knowledge, and independent judgement to deliver a complete and reliable assessment.
By identifying potential issues at an early stage, we help our clients avoid unnecessary costs — whether through reduced repair exposure, stronger negotiation positions, or prevention of operational disruptions.
Our reports are detailed, clear, and widely recognised by lenders, insurers, and classification societies. They support efficient transactions and establish a dependable record of the vessel’s condition from the start of ownership or throughout a charter period.
Contact us today to discuss your survey requirements and ensure your assets are properly assessed, protected, and documented.