Returning Home After a Hurricane

What to Check for With Your Boat Dock, Boat, and Lift Equipment

After the recent hurricanes, it’s essential to assess the damage to your marine infrastructure when it’s safe to return. A thorough inspection can prevent further issues and ensure safety. Below are key areas to evaluate when checking your boat dock, boat, and lift equipment.

1. Safety First

Before anything else, ensure the environment is safe:

• Structural Safety: Look for debris, submerged hazards, or any broken parts of your property. Wear protective gear like gloves, boots, and goggles. Be cautious of electrical issues, such as exposed wires or broken power lines near your dock.
• Water Conditions: If water levels have not returned to normal, be wary of submerged objects that may pose a hazard to navigation or inspection.

2. Inspecting Your Boat Dock

Your dock bears the brunt of the storm’s force, often taking the most damage from wind, debris, and waves.

A. Structural Damage

• Decking: Look for loose or missing deck boards, splintering, or warping. Replace or repair compromised wood or materials to avoid accidents.
• Pilings and Beams: Inspect the pilings and beams that hold your dock in place. Ensure none are leaning, broken, or moved from their foundation. Even minor shifts could affect the structural integrity of the entire dock.
• Fasteners and Hardware: Hurricanes often loosen bolts, screws, or other fastening devices. Check cleats, bumpers, and dock ladders to ensure they’re secure and functional.

B. Electrical System

• Power Supply: Docks often have electrical systems for lighting or equipment. After a hurricane, check for damaged wiring, exposed cables, or power issues. It’s best to cut the power until a qualified electrician verifies safety.
• Lighting and Outlets: Inspect lighting systems, outlets, or any electrically powered equipment on your dock for water damage.

3. Evaluating Your Boat

Whether your boat was left in the water, on a lift, or stored on land, it’s crucial to assess its condition carefully.

A. Hull and Exterior

• Check for Hull Damage: Visually inspect the hull for cracks, dents, or punctures. If your boat has come into contact with debris or other objects during the storm, the impact may have caused unseen damage.
• Inspect Below the Waterline: Boats moored during a storm might suffer unseen damage below the waterline. If possible, lift your boat out of the water to perform a detailed inspection.

B. Engine and Electrical Systems

• Water Intrusion in Engine: Check your engine compartment for signs of water intrusion. If water entered the engine, refrain from starting the boat, as it could cause permanent damage. Professional servicing is necessary.
• Battery and Electrical Equipment: Inspect the boat’s battery and any electronic components for corrosion or water damage. Test electronics such as radios, GPS units, and lighting for proper function.

C. Interior Condition

• Mold and Moisture: Excess moisture from the storm can cause mold or mildew inside your boat. Check upholstery, storage compartments, and the cabin for dampness, and dry out any affected areas as soon as possible.

4. Assessing Your Boat Lift

Boat lifts are critical to safeguarding your vessel from storm surges, but they may suffer damage during a hurricane. Unfortunately if your lift was submerged during any of the recent Hurricane activity all electrical components including switches, GFCI and electric motor will need to be replaced.  

A. Mechanical Components

• Lift Motor: Inspect the lift motor for water damage. Many motors are built to withstand moisture, but saltwater exposure can still cause internal damage. If the motor was submerged, have it professionally serviced before use.
• Cables and Pulleys: Look for frayed, rusted, or broken cables. These are the lifelines of your boat lift system, and any damage could lead to a malfunction. Replace any compromised parts immediately.
• Bunks and Cradles: Examine the bunks (the parts that cradle your boat) for damage or misalignment. Adjust as necessary to ensure that your boat sits properly on the lift.

B. Structural Integrity

• Inspect the Lift Frame: Just as with your dock, check the lift’s frame for signs of wear or damage. Look for bent beams or any signs that the lift has shifted due to high winds or waves.
• Alignment: Ensure the lift is still properly aligned. A misaligned lift can place uneven pressure on your boat, leading to damage over time.

C. Electrical Systems

• Power and Wiring: If your lift is powered, inspect all electrical components for water damage or corrosion. Check the control box and remote for functionality. Be cautious when restoring power, and consult an electrician if necessary.

5. Document Damage and File Claims

After completing your inspections, it’s important to document any damage thoroughly. Take clear photos of all affected areas, and keep detailed notes to support any insurance claims you might need to file.

• Contact Your Insurance Provider: Inform your insurer of any damage and provide them with the necessary documentation.
• Repair Estimates: Reach out to professionals for repair estimates on your boat, dock, and lift equipment. If you have warranties, now would be the time to check what’s covered.

6. Schedule Professional Inspections and Repairs

Even if no significant damage is visible, it’s wise to have professionals conduct a thorough inspection of your boat, dock, and lift equipment after a hurricane. They can catch issues that may not be immediately apparent and perform necessary repairs to avoid long-term damage.

7. Long-Term Maintenance Tips

To protect your dock, boat, and lift from future storms, consider the following long-term strategies:

• Storm-Resistant Materials: Invest in storm-resistant materials for your dock and boat lift to increase their durability.
• Routine Maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance for your boat and lift equipment, especially after a hurricane season.
• Upgrade to Surge Protection: Install surge protectors or other safeguarding measures for electrical systems to reduce damage risks during future storms.

Conclusion

Returning home after a hurricane is a process that requires careful attention to safety and a thorough inspection of your marine infrastructure. By systematically assessing your dock, boat, and lift equipment, you can mitigate damage and restore functionality to your marine assets. Don’t rush—safety should always come first. When in doubt, consult professionals for advice and repairs to ensure your equipment is safe and ready for future use.