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Pre-Purchase Boat Inspection

Who pays for a boat survey — buyer or seller?

The buyer pays for the marine survey in virtually all transactions. It is the buyer's due diligence tool and protects the buyer's interests. Survey costs are non-negotiable and not typically reimbursed if the deal falls through based on survey findings. Some buyers ask sellers to lower the price to offset the survey cost, but sellers are not obligated to do so. Budget $300-$700 for a survey depending on boat size and surveyor.