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Boat Repairs… Don’t Get Soaked!

Reprinted with Permission from the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs Division.

Trap

The sun was shining, and the seas were calm, but Jake’s boat engine wouldn’t start.  Jake called a friend who knew someone who worked on boats. The “mechanic” came to Jake’s house and looked at the engine.  He said the fuel filter was bad, and the carburetor needed to be rebuilt.  Jake paid $400 and waited a few weeks to get the parts.  The mechanic installed the parts and declared the boat ready to go. Unfortunately, 10 miles out to sea, Jake had the same problem.  This time the engine wouldn’t start, and Jake had to pay $200 to get the boat towed to the marina.

Tips

The International Boat Show ended Sunday, March 29.  Events like this provide an opportunity to learn more about keeping boats shipshape. Here are some tips:

• Florida does not require “boat mechanics” to be certified in marine repairs.
• The Motor Vehicle Repair Act does not include boat repairs, and mechanics are not required to provide a written estimate before beginning repairs.  You should request a detailed written estimate with a specific bottom-line dollar amount.    
• Visit the shop first, and inspect it for cleanliness and organization.  Determine how long the shop has been in business by checking for a business tax receipt.
• Before contacting a marine repair shop, know what type of engine you have, and ask if any of the technicians are factory trained.  Be prepared to explain your specific problem (i.e. hard start, no start or running/idling rough).
• Consider membership in a boat or fishing club.  Ask members for references.
• Is the business insured?  Consider the liability if someone gets hurt on your property.   

Call Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs for help and guidance at 561-712-6600 (Boca/Delray call 1-888-852-7362) or go to the Web site www.pbcgov.com/consumer to see if other local consumers have submitted complaints about the company.

Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs is a Palm Beach County government agency of the Public Safety Department. They assist residents and visitors with advice and information about unfair, fraudulent or deceptive practices of businesses and landlords. They also regulate taxi cab, limousine, local moving companies and non-consent towing companies. Each week an article on common tips and traps is released on their website.

Visit the Palm Beach County Consumer Affairs' website for their tips and traps section.

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