An on/off hire survey is an inspection that is conducted on a vessel or equipment before and after a charter or lease agreement to determine its condition and any damages that may have occurred during the charter period. The survey is important because it provides an accurate record of the condition of the vessel or equipment before and after the charter, which can be used to resolve any disputes that may arise between the parties involved.

The importance of an on/off hire survey lies in its ability to protect the interests of both the owner and the charterer or lessee. For the owner, the survey provides an accurate record of the condition of the vessel or equipment before it is leased or chartered, which can be used as evidence in case of any disputes over damages or loss of use. For the charterer or lessee, the survey ensures that they are not held responsible for any damages that were already present before they took possession of the vessel or equipment.

The on/off hire survey typically includes an inspection of the vessel or equipment’s overall condition, including its hull, machinery, and equipment, as well as an inventory of any spare parts, tools, or other items that were included in the charter or lease agreement. The survey may also include a review of the vessel or equipment’s logbook to verify its maintenance and repair history.

The results of the on/off hire survey are documented in a detailed report that includes photographs and a description of any damages or defects found. This report can be used by the parties involved to resolve any disputes that may arise over damages or loss of use.