Even though it is only August, the end is drawing near for boating season. Often, as the fall and winter approach, boaters no longer take to the water the way they did during the summer.
If you’ve enjoyed a boat for the summer, you have to take care to put it away properly. Preparing to store your boat can help you reduce the chances of damage or deterioration.
Indeed, many boat insurance policies don't cover deterioration from normal wear and tear. As storage might lead to such deterioration, proper protection may help you avoid damage that doesn't have coverage.
Preventative Maintenance for a Boat
As the end of the season draws near, it is a good idea to undertake preventative maintenance on your boat. This can help prevent hull deterioration, system breakdowns and other potentially extensive damage.
- Prepare the appropriate storage facility for the boat. Some boaters use dry docks or storage buildings. Others use on-water storage, or store boats under a cover. However you choose to store the boat, make sure your boat insurance covers the storage option.
- Clean, and inspect the boat’s hull. Regular inspections can help boat owners catch weak or damaged portions of the hull. This could help prevent hull damage that might lead to a total hull loss.
- If you own a sail, inspect it and store it according to proper requirements. Sails may receive damage, mold contamination or pest infestation if you don’t store them properly.
- Service the boat’s internal systems. Clean the engine and oil systems thoroughly. Replace the fluids and inspect the systems for damaged or worn parts. Replace these as necessary.
- Properly store and protect vital systems. These may include the boat’s radio, compass and other operating systems. Test these systems for proper calibration, and shut them down entirely.
- During the winter, comprehensively review your boat’s safety systems. You might replace your life jackets, rafts, fire suppressant systems or first aid kits.
- Use the storage period to update and adjust your boat insurance as needed. Update your registration and coverage if you feel the value of your boat or your risks have changed. Don’t forget to take into account how you will use the boat in the next season when you renew your policy.
With the correct care, you can protect your boat during the storage season. However, as that time approaches, there are steps you can take to protect your boat all year-round.
We’ve got you covered. Call Amco & Remco Insurance at (800) 282-2000 to get a fast, free San Antonio boat insurance quote.