Cracking in Back of Cupboards

[KelseyL]

Hello,
We're looking at boats and found one we really like, but found some cracking inside a few of the cupboards. It's not in all of them though. We asked the broker about it and he said last time the owner got it surveyed, he asked the surveyor to check those spots and the surveyor found the areas dry and didn't detect any moisture. We were viewing it in the rain and we didn't feel any wetness or moisture after it had rained for a number of hours.

We also have a copy of that survey and it says the hull / deck joint is well fastened. It listed the vessel in above average condition and didn't have any negative comments or recommendations beyond updating flares. It didn't directly mention the cracks in the survey.

We're not that familiar with boats and are wondering if this just a cosmetic problem or something bigger to be worried about. We are definitely getting a survey done if we get an accepted offer, but we don't want to go that far if this is a big problem.

Thanks for the advice!
(I don't know why the pictures are sideways. They're saved as the correct orientation)

[tamicatana]

Without being there, it looks cosmetic. Fun it will be to scrape/sand that to replace the coating….

[Tayana42]

KelseyL, don’t rely on the survey from the seller. If you are seriously considering the boat get your own surveyor (ask around, don’t take the recommendation of the seller or broker) and point out the questionable areas. I can’t tell from the photos but it could be cosmetic, poor original workmanship (the under deck surface seems pretty rough), a bad paint job or worse, water from the deck fittings just inboard of the hull/deck joint. What kind of boat is this? If you really like it make your offer contingent on survey and sea trial then go with the surveyor and watch and listen. It is a good way to learn. You may end up completing the deal with some further discount for things needing to be repaired or you might walk away. The cost of the survey is a small investment compared to buying a boat with problems you could have avoided.

[more]

Originally Posted by KelseyL

Hello,
We're looking at boats and found one we really like, but found some cracking inside a few of the cupboards. It's not in all of them though. We asked the broker about it and he said last time the owner got it surveyed, he asked the surveyor to check those spots and the surveyor found the areas dry and didn't detect any moisture. We were viewing it in the rain and we didn't feel any wetness or moisture after it had rained for a number of hours.

We also have a copy of that survey and it says the hull / deck joint is well fastened. It listed the vessel in above average condition and didn't have any negative comments or recommendations beyond updating flares. It didn't directly mention the cracks in the survey.

We're not that familiar with boats and are wondering if this just a cosmetic problem or something bigger to be worried about. We are definitely getting a survey done if we get an accepted offer, but we don't want to go that far if this is a big problem.

Thanks for the advice!
(I don't know why the pictures are sideways. They're saved as the correct orientation)

don't buy, order in shipyard new custom boat. But when reciver new boat you don't need 1 surveyor you need 5-6 diferent.

[JPA Cate]

Hi, KelseyL, Welcome to CF.

I would like to suggest you study this: Marine Survey 101: https://www.cruisersforum.com/forums...1-a-78671.html It was written by a marine surveyor member of CF.

to Tayana 42's post. You do need your own surveyor. Do ask around first to try and find a good one.

In terms of negotiations, show those photos to someone you might hire to do the work for you. It does look as if water got in there at some time or another, but I have not myself ever seen paint look cracked like that, the flaky stuff, yes, but the cracking looks odd. Get a couple of estimates for fixing it, so you learn how much money would be involved, and try and learn what you'd have to do if you wanted to take on the job yourself. It is good that it was dry in the rain, but if it is something that opens up when the hull flexes, as in going to windward in a blow, it could be a much more expensive repair, and you'd need detailed advice on how to go about it.

Ann

[guyrj33]

From the pictures that looks very similar to the peeling paint I have inside some of our lockers.

[rhubstuff]

The peeling paint is not an issue, but I don't like the looks of that dark spot in the upper corner, which appears to be right next to a stanchion base. This could indicate water intrusion into the core. And if one stanchion is compromised, maybe others are as well.