LegalGELegalGE
...

Vessel Inspection Requirements

How often must a vessel undergo inspection?

Mandatory surveys are typically annual, with a major special survey for class renewal every 5 years. Intermediate surveys are also required between the second and third year.

Can an inspection be postponed?

Extensions are rarely granted and only under exceptional circumstances (force majeure) with explicit permission from the Flag State administration.

Who performs vessel inspections in Georgia?

Inspections are conducted by the Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia or recognized Classification Societies (like BV, ABS, LR) authorized by the government.

What happens if a vessel fails inspection?

If a vessel fails, it may be detained or have its certificates suspended. The owner must rectify the defects and undergo a re-inspection before sailing.

Reading Time

4 min

Published

...

Introduction: Vessel Inspection Requirements in Georgia

Vessel inspection is a fundamental process for any maritime operation, ensuring the technical soundness and seaworthiness of a ship. Under Georgian legislation and international norms, vessels are subject to regular inspections to confirm compliance with safety, environmental, and technical standards. For shipowners, charterers, and managers, knowledge and timely fulfillment of inspection requirements are critical for business continuity. Failure to undergo inspection or negative results lead to the suspension of certificates, cancellation of insurance, and a ban on vessel operation. Legal.ge offers full legal support in the vessel inspection process, from preparatory work to appealing inspection results or legally formalizing the rectification of deficiencies.

What Does the Vessel Inspection Service Cover?

This service covers all types of inspections and related legal procedures:

  • Classification Society Inspection: Organizing and providing documentary support for technical surveys (hull, machinery, electrical) required for assigning or renewing class.
  • Flag State Inspection: Mandatory annual and intermediate surveys for vessels flying the Georgian flag, in accordance with the requirements of the Maritime Transport Agency.
  • Pre-purchase Inspection: Conducting independent expertise during a vessel sale and purchase transaction to determine the ship's actual condition.
  • Insurance Inspection: Surveys required by insurance companies (P&I Clubs, H&M) for risk assessment purposes.
  • Safety Equipment Verification: Controlling the certification of life-saving appliances, fire-fighting systems, and radio equipment.
  • Environmental Audit: Checking vessel emission and waste management systems for compliance with MARPOL standards.

Common Scenarios and Needs

Vessel inspection issues become relevant in the following situations:

  • Vessel Registration Renewal: A vessel's registration is expiring, and passing a Flag State inspection is necessary to renew it. A lawyer helps the client collect documents and communicate with the inspector.
  • Post-Accident Survey: A vessel has suffered damage (e.g., grounding). An occasional survey is needed to maintain class and restore seaworthiness.
  • Vessel Acquisition: An investor plans to buy a ship and wants to ensure it has no hidden defects or legal burdens, which is determined through inspection.
  • Change of Class: A shipowner wants to switch from one classification society to another, requiring complex technical and documentary verification.
  • Dispute over Inspection Results: A Port State Control Officer (PSCO) has groundlessly recorded a deficiency. Legal appeal of this decision is required.

Georgian Legal Framework

Vessel inspection procedures are regulated by the Maritime Code of Georgia and the Law of Georgia on Maritime Space. The main controlling body is the Maritime Transport Agency (MTA) under the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development. The Agency delegates technical supervision authority to recognized organizations (Classification Societies). Inspection standards are based on international conventions such as SOLAS (Chapter I - General Provisions), MARPOL, and Load Lines. Georgian legislation strictly defines the periodicity of inspections (annual, intermediate, renewal) and the sanctions for their violation. The regulation "On the Rule of Vessel Registration" also contains specific requirements regarding technical surveys.

Service Process Step-by-Step

Managing the inspection process through Legal.ge involves:

  1. Planning and Coordination: Scheduling the inspection date with the relevant body (Class, Flag) and agreeing on the vessel's location.
  2. Document Preparation: Checking vessel logs, certificates, and technical passports to ensure they are ready for presentation.
  3. Physical Inspection Attendance: The presence of an expert or lawyer directly on board during the survey to ensure the objectivity of the process.
  4. Reporting and Analysis: Receiving the inspection report and legally analyzing the noted remarks.
  5. Defect Rectification Monitoring: Preparing documentation confirming the correction of deficiencies and submitting it to the regulator for final approval.

Why Choose Legal.ge?

Vessel inspection requires specific legal knowledge alongside technical expertise. Legal.ge gives you access to specialists who understand both the ship's structure and bureaucratic procedures. Experts found through our platform will help you save time, avoid fines, and ensure the continued commercial operation of your vessel. Trust Legal.ge's verified professionals for the technical and legal soundness of your fleet.

Updated: ...

Specialists for this service

Loading...