As summer ends, shipyards and boat repairers shift from active vessel use to intensive repairs, upgrades, and winterization. This change introduces new operational challenges that demand focused maintenance and risk management.

Post-summer repairs often mean heavier workloads and tighter deadlines. Equipment used heavily during peak months may face even more strain during refits and restorations. Liability risks also shift — from protecting vessels in the water to safeguarding workers, subcontractors, and property amid complex repair operations.

Now is the time to assess infrastructure, address wear and tear, and review shipyard insurance to ensure coverage matches seasonal hazards. Reviewing policies now helps confirm coverage for increased heavy equipment use and environmental exposures — and avoid gaps that could lead to costly claims.

Key Areas for End-of-Summer Maintenance

End-of-summer boat maintenance can prevent breakdowns, reduce downtime, and support compliance with industry regulations. 

• Infrastructure checks: Inspect docks, lifts, and haul-out equipment for signs of wear or corrosion. Addressing issues now prevents downtime when schedules tighten.
• Equipment servicing: Service cranes, hydraulic tools, and safety systems to maintain efficiency and reduce the risk of operational failure.
• Environmental systems: Test drainage, spill containment, and fire suppression equipment to ensure compliance with safety standards and environmental regulations.

How Maintenance Season Impacts Risk Exposure

During the maintenance season, shipyards often see an increase in heavy equipment use, dry docking, and refitting activities, all of which carry greater mechanical and structural hazards. 

The pace of work can also raise the risk of worker injury and third-party property damage. In addition, fuel leaks, hazardous waste handling, and stormwater runoff management can expose businesses to environmental claims if not properly managed.

Is Your Shipyard Insurance Keeping Up?

Comprehensive marina insurance typically addresses general liability, marine liability, workers’ compensation, pollution coverage, and property damage. Seasonal activities can create new exposures or heighten existing ones, making it important to review limits, deductibles, and exclusions before busy repair schedules peak. 

Seasonal changes in shipyard operations often affect coverage requirements. Updates on evolving marina insurance policies reflect these shifts.

Risk Mitigation Strategies During Maintenance Season

Proactive measures reduce accidents and support claims management. Key strategies include:

• Implementing safety audits and checklists to identify hazards before incidents occur
• Providing targeted training for staff to handle the increased workload and specialized repair tasks
• Documenting all maintenance work to strengthen liability defense, emphasizing thorough records in resolving claims

Common Coverage Mistakes To Avoid

Overlooking important details in commercial marine insurance coverage can leave shipyards vulnerable during the demanding maintenance season. Being aware of common mistakes helps protect against unexpected gaps.

• Outdated equipment valuations: Failure to update valuations can result in inadequate payouts if equipment is damaged.
• Assuming subcontractors are covered: Independent contractors may require separate policies to avoid coverage disputes.
• Overlooking inland marine or business interruption coverage: These protections can be critical if equipment damage or operational shutdowns occur during peak repair demand.

Secure Your Coverage Before Fall Activity Ramps Up

The weeks following peak boating season are the ideal time to review policies. Waiting until hurricane repairs, winter refits, or storage requests flood your schedule can lead to missed opportunities for coverage adjustments. 

A policy audit with a marine insurance specialist can align protection with your operational realities. Contact Mariners Insurance today to discuss a tailored plan that protects your shipyard or repair business through every season.

About Mariners General Insurance Group

Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide — in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs — trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (888) 402-5018 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.