„Survey“

1. To examine and report on the condition of a vessel for purposes of establishing seaworthiness, value, or dimensions.

2. To examine and report on the condition of goods or a structure.

3. To examine and report on the condition of goods or property after a casualty to determine the extent of the loss and the probable cause. (Often to support an insurance claim, – although there may be a claim without insurance being involved.)

4. The reports described above, generally conducted by an independent third party, called “a surveyor.”

Source:

Hayler, William B. “American Merchant Seaman’s Manual.” Cornell Maritime Pr/Tidewater Pub, 2003.