Is your BSS certificate valid?

A SURVEYOR has pointed out to us the problems arising where someone buying a boat makes alterations to its LPG appliances, the appliances then not matching the sales paperwork.

Graham Freeman tells us that a pre-purchase survey which reveals that the craft's Boat Safety Scheme Certificate is valid until 201X, may not be valid if alterations Have been made so that the appliances no longer match those at the time of sale, remarking:

Not aware

"While changes to craft configuration goes hand in hand with boating, many owners (and prospective owners) do not seem to be aware of the implications of such changes (and their associated insurance ramifications).

"From the participating Navigation Authorities' perspective. They need to be assured that their responsibility to protect the safety of third party users of the waterways (boaters, walkers, fishermen, employees etc) is not compromised by fire, explosion and pollution originating from boats."

Tested

It is therefore essential that if an owner makes alterations or re-fits his galley with new appliances he has the installation tested by a ‘competent person' (a BSS Examiner or a Gas Safe registered engineer), otherwise the craft in question now presents not only an increased third party liability but a possible insurance implication if the owner has not notified his insurer of the modifications.

As the surveyors intend to enter a debate with the navigation authorities on this subject in the coming weeks, we have amended our references to this subject in 'Basics', to heighten awareness of this misunderstood issue.