MyBoatDeskSeparate findings from solutions
Record what was actually observed or evidenced first. A damp area, missing record or unusual voltage is a finding; suspected cause and proposed repair remain separate assumptions.
This prevents an early explanation from steering later inspection and lets specialists add their diagnosis without overwriting the original observation.
Safety and consequential damage first
Prioritise potential effects on structure, rig, steering, fire, gas, electrical systems, propulsion and water ingress before comfort or cosmetics. Critical findings need independent professional assessment.
Capture dependencies: interior finishes should not be completed before a leak is resolved and the area has dried. A refit plan is more than a shopping list.
Ranges and access
Record low, typical and high ranges and state what they include. Material alone rarely represents the work; access, removal, lifting, disposal, secondary work and retesting may dominate.
Replace assumptions with quotations over time. Preserve scope, validity and exclusions so apparently similar prices are not mistaken for equivalent work.
Return evidence to the boat record
Once complete, invoices, photos, parts, contractor and next inspection date belong in the boat record. A completed refit item becomes traceable history rather than a task that disappeared.
Keep deferred or rejected work visible so a later owner or specialist can understand what was decided and on which information.
General information, not a survey or legal, tax or financial advice.