CHECKLIST - TO BUY A BOAT

Are you keen to take the plunge and buy a boat that suits your needs? Follow the checklist below to make a success of your boat purchase.

1. Examine the condition of the boat and fulfill your duty of inspection

The duty of inspection means that you as the buyer have a responsibility to carefully examine and assess the condition of the boat before purchasing. To fulfill your duty of inspection in the best possible way, it is strongly recommended that you engage an expert, such as a surveyor. A surveyor has the experience and knowledge required to carry out a thorough and professional inspection of the boat. Important aspects to examine include, for example, the size and condition of the engine, the condition of the hull, any repairs or damage, and checking that all equipment on board is functioning correctly.

2. Particularly important considerations when buying a used boat

When it comes to purchasing used boats, it is particularly important to check that there are no outstanding debts or disputes linked to the boat and to verify the ownership history. It is also important to be aware that warranties are often not transferred to new owners and that the right to make a complaint may be more limited compared to new boats.

3. Take the boat for a test run

A test run is essential for assessing the boat's performance and condition. During the test run, you should observe how the boat behaves at different speeds and manoeuvres. It is also important to check that all equipment is working as it should. In addition, it is a good opportunity to listen for any unusual noises from the engine or other parts of the boat.

4. CE marking

It is important to check the boat's CE marking, as it serves as a guarantee that the boat meets EU safety requirements. To check the marking, look for a label with the CE logo and information about the boat's design category. The CE marking on a boat is usually found on the manufacturer's plate, which should be placed in a visible and easily accessible location on the boat, often near the helm or on the boat's transom. If the boat is not CE marked and was manufactured after 1998, this may mean that it is not legal to use, which can cause problems with insurance or resale.

5. Service record

The service record is a document that should contain a history of the service and maintenance that has been carried out on the boat. By reviewing the service record, you can verify that the boat has been maintained regularly and in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. It is important to check that all scheduled service appointments are documented, that any repairs or replaced parts are noted, and that the service record has been completed by a qualified technician or workshop. A well-maintained service record can give an indication of the boat's condition and can be crucial to its value and safety.

6. The seller

Find out as much as possible about the seller. If it is a company, examine their reputation by reading reviews and customer feedback online. If it is a private individual, try to get a sense of the person's credibility and the reason they are selling the boat.

Ensure that the person selling the boat is actually its owner. This is an important but sometimes overlooked detail. Request to see the seller's identification documents as well as documents proving ownership, such as a receipt or a valid bill of sale showing that the seller previously acquired the boat.

7. Insurance and registration

Make sure you arrange insurance that covers your needs and protects you against any damage or accidents. Also check that the boat is correctly registered and that all necessary documents are in order.

Remember not to rush. Take the time to go through these points so that you can enjoy your boat ownership. Good luck with your boat purchase!

Last but not least! — Best of luck with your boat purchase!

CHECKLIST - TO SELL A BOAT

If you have decided to sell your boat, there are a few things you should bear in mind. First and foremost, you should inform the potential buyer of everything you know about the boat. The clearer you are about everything you know regarding its condition and features, the better your transaction will be.

1. Provide clear information

Provide a complete and accurate description of the boat to interested buyers. This should include basic information such as the year of manufacture and model, but also details about the boat's condition, service work carried out, and repairs. Do not forget to mention what equipment is included in the purchase.

2. Offer a test run

Offer potential buyers the opportunity to take the boat for a test run to demonstrate its function and condition. Make sure that you accompany them during the test run. Before the test run, it is important to confirm the buyer's identity — this is a safety measure in the event that the boat is damaged during the test run.

3. Be cautious with brokers

If you use a broker for the sale, thoroughly investigate their background. Use services such as allabolag.se to review the broker's financial status. Also read reviews and ask for references from previous customers.

4. Value added tax and registration

When selling to a buyer in another EU country, you must take value added tax into account. It is important that the buyer is registered for VAT and can provide their VAT number at the time of purchase. This is necessary in order to handle tax matters correctly and to avoid future tax issues.

5. Be honest

By being transparent, you avoid misunderstandings and thereby reduce the risk of future disputes. This builds trust and can contribute to a smoother sales process. All relevant information should be documented and included in the purchase agreement. As a seller, it is important to be honest and clearly inform the buyer of all known faults or issues with the boat.

6. Payment

Agree on a payment method that is secure for both you and the buyer. Do not hand over the boat until you have received full payment of the purchase price, and ensure that all agreements and documents are properly signed.

7. After the sale

Inform your insurance company of the sale in order to terminate your insurance or to transfer it to the new owner if so desired.

By following these steps, you can help ensure a safe and legally correct sale of your boat and reduce the risk of future disputes.