I think this topic has been discussed before but has anyone got a figure on what insurance/surveyors expect a rig inspection? Is it every 5 years or 7?
I'm fairly certain that when I had my standing rigging replace a few years back the figure talked about was 7 years. Best to check with your individual insurer though as they may differ.
Others may correct me but as I understand it, most boat insurance doesn't cover the rig anyway except if the boat is stolen, So if it breaks I doubt an insurance company would payout on a claim. Thus I have never had to have a rig inspection for insurance purposes. If you are interested in safety as opposed to insurance, then the question really is at what interval is it prudent to replace the standing rigging - and the running rigging for that matter. But most people find it mentally easier to replace the running rigging than to replace the standing rigging. Also a rigging inspection is obviously wise when purchasing a boat as the need for repair or replacement will affect the price.
I think you are pretty much on the mark there HaveFun. I think the insurance companies have been touched too many times in the past with non legitimate rig failure claims that they now do not trust yacht owners and have wiped rig insurance.
Insurance assessors are not generally technically minded but are very aware of RISK. Lets face it, insurance is a game of chance. What are the chances of a claim if we take on this RISK?
Even third party property (protection and indemnity) insurance is becoming more difficult to get.
A smart insurance company could tailor make a policy to cover yachts against loss for most situations excluding rig or damage caused by rig failure.
When I purchased my boat late last year I contacted Club Marine and they advised if the standing rig was older than 10 years they would not insure the rig while the sails were being raised , were hoisted or while being dropped
My experience is similar to RiffRaff. Also insured by Club Marine, I had been advised that standing rigging would not be covered if more than 7 years old (may have been 10). I had the rigging replaced then due to an administrative glitch omitted to inform the insurer with the result being that my renewal came with a clause stating that the rig was not covered.
When I contacted them about this they asked for evidence that the rigging had been replaced (copy of paid invoice from the rigger). Once they had that they were satisfied and removed the clause from the policy.
Damaged my mast hinge whilst lowering and raising the mast on my 30 year old S&S 39 to go under the bridges couple of
years ago, Nautilus paid out in full.
Rig was old but hinge was only a few years old.
On my new boat, mast came down due to faulty forestay retaining clip (and not enough inspection on my behalf).
Rig 6 years old. Nautilus paid in full.
Club marine paid out on a mates S&S 34 that lost its rig whilst sailing.
Also paid in full.
Maybe things have changed recently though ??
