Short answer
Satisfy an insurer by reading the actual policy wording rather than relying on general advice, then supplying what it asks for — usually a dated professional inspection report, evidence of rigging age, and documentation of any remedial work. Requirements vary between insurers and policies, so the policy document is the only authority that matters.
Insurers differ, and general rules of thumb repeated in forums are not policy terms. Read your own wording, and where it is ambiguous, ask the insurer or broker in writing and keep the reply. A written answer is worth considerably more than a phone conversation at claim time.
What is commonly requested: a dated inspection report from a suitably experienced rigger or surveyor, evidence of when the standing rigging was fitted, and documentation of any work carried out in response to findings. Vessels used commercially may face separate survey requirements under the AMSA National System.
Supply the report, not a summary of it. Photographs, component-level findings and a date are what an insurer can act on. "My rigger says it is fine" is not evidence.
Where the policy references an age milestone, treat it as a planning date and start the conversation early. Arranging an inspection two months before renewal is straightforward; arranging one two days before is not. See yacht rigging and insurance.
Key facts
- The only authority
- Your actual policy wording
- Commonly required
- Dated professional inspection report, rigging age evidence, remedial work records
- Get in writing
- Any clarification from the insurer or broker
- Commercial vessels
- AMSA National System requirements may apply separately
- Timing
- Start well before renewal, not days before
Full background: read the guide
Primary sources
Regulatory statements are checked against primary sources rather than secondary summaries. See the editorial policy.