Want to check out a used boat with some knowledge of what inspectors look for? This list shows 10 violations of American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) standards that can often be found on older boats.

Of course, it's not a complete listing. But these are items that you are likely to encounter when inspecting boats built years ago, before standards were widely followed.

Caption TK

Fuel Hose Connections (ABYC standard H33.11.4). This states that "clamps depending solely upon the spring tension of the metal shall not be used." In other words, those cheap pinch–on fuel clamps don't make the grade. Unfortunately, you'll still find them on many low–cost boats.

Handholds (ABYC standard H.4.5.3). This states that "handhold devices or grab rails shall be provided in exterior seating locations intended to be occupied when the vessel is underway." You'll find that this one gets violated regularly.

Re–boarding (ABYC standard H41.9.4). This says "the top surface of the lowest step of a re–boarding ladder shall be at least 12 inches below the waterline when a boat is floating in the static position." Many re–boarding ladders don't reach quite this far down. Sometimes, the boat won't have a re–boarding ladder at all.

Anchoring Systems (ABYC standard H40.4.3.1 and H40.4.3.4.1). This states that "for boats over 20 feet long provision shall be made for the deployment of two anchor rodes over the bow. Strong points shall be of sufficient size to accommodate two anchor rodes or dock lines."
Still you'll find plenty of boats over 20 feet that have a single bow cleat, far too small to accommodate two lines at once. According to the ABYC, that simply doesn't cut it.

Helm Visibility (ABYC standard H–1.4.10). This states that "visibility from the standing position shall be attained from a standing eye height of 58 inches above the standing surface of the helm." This one can be tricky. Stretch out a tape measure and most (though not all) boats will provide sufficient visibility. However, when the bow rises as the boat comes onto plane, will that visibility remain? Maybe, and maybe not. The only way to be sure is to run the boat, and find out yourself.

Slip Resistant Surfaces (ABYC standard H41.10.1.1). This says that "slip resistant surfaces shall be used in the following locations" and the list includes "ladder steps and rungs." You'd think this one is so obvious even non–inspected builders would do it. Not so–you'll discover that some builders, particularly those of speedboats that place importance on appearance, have steps or rungs of shiny stainless–steel. Sure, it looks good, but if they're wet your boats shoes will slip right off.

Fuel Systems (ABYC Standard H33.10.6.2). This mandates that "self wicking material, such as carpet pile, shall not be in contact with a metallic tank." This one may be tough to spot, and this is where a flashlight can be helpful. Use it to illuminate the belowdecks compartments, and plan to contort a bit to get a view near the bottom of the tank.

HIN numbers (ABYC Standard T10.5) This says that "duplicate HIN numbers shall be located in an unexposed area on the interior of the boat, such as beneath a fitting, or installed on an item of hardware." Use this one to make a boat salesmen's jaw drop–many don't even know a duplicate HIN exists. But it's important you make sure it exists and know its location in case the boat ever gets stolen.

Batteries (ABYC Standard E10.7.6) This states "batteries shall not be installed directly below battery chargers or inverters." When you check them out, also look to be sure the battery is in a sealed, vented box that's secured in place–all things that professional inspectors look for, too.

Receptacles (ABYC Standard E11.15.1.1.3) This says "receptacles provided for the galley shall be located so appliance cords can be plugged in without crossing a traffic area, stove or sink."