Things to Consider When Writing Marinas

A marina is an active community unto itself. Beyond providing mooring and boat storage, marinas may: provide minor or even major boat repair services; rent boats; sell boats; provide electrical and water hook ups; have on-sight restaurants or other eating facilities; operate an accessories store; or even conduct fishing or sightseeing expeditions.

In addition to operational exposures, marinas are also subject to natural risks not common to most other property. Due to the proximity to water and the general locations of marinas, wind and water damage is of utmost concern. Also, salt-water marinas have an increased wear and tear exposure from the constant exposure to salt air and water (a maintenance issue not covered by insurance).

Because of these increased exposures, marina structures may need to implement much higher building standards than is required by local building code. Special attention must be paid to docks and piers. Due to the traffic on these structures and the punishment they suffer, constant inspection is necessary to avoid a potential bodily injury claim from a slip and fall. Marinas that employ wet or dry storage take on a heavy bailee risk.

What security measures are in place to block access by unauthorized trespassers? Are boats moved and stored properly? What method(s) is used to move boats around the property?

How much risk is taken by the marina in the storage contract (agreement)?

If repair services are offered, what type of work is done?

Is any work done on the hulls? If so, what is the construction type of the hulls repaired (wood, fiberglass, metal)?

Other underwriting information the underwriter may require includes:

• Number of outside berths?
• Any interior berths?
• How high (in feet) are boats stored?
• Number of boats owned by the marina?
• Any boat rental? Area of navigation?
• Any boating safety training required before renting a boat?
• Are any regattas or social events sponsored by the marina?
• Are propane tanks refueled?
• Years in business?
• Gross receipts (broken down by operation type)?
• Premises protection information (security, fire, etc.).
• Other premises information (camp grounds, swimming pools, recreation facilities, etc.).

Underwriters may require information other than that detailed in the description and list above; but this provides a good basis when considering a marina.