LMR Marine Inspectors

Frequently Asked Questions — Kenner, LA

Do you cover my area, and why do some bids include a big travel charge?

Surveyors in this industry typically work out of a home port and will travel to Kenner, LA or nearby for a survey. That travel is priced as a separate mobilisation charge covering crew transport, equipment setup, and dive-spread logistics. It is the single line item that most often explains a large gap between otherwise similar bids.

How is the price for a condition or damage survey calculated?

Commercial diving work is quoted as a crew or spread day rate plus a separate mobilisation charge. Depending on the asset, the inspection itself is often priced per structure or per substructure unit, while marine construction jobs are usually unit-priced per linear foot or per pile. The total scope, not an hourly rate, drives the final quote.

Can you inspect without hauling out or dry-docking?

Yes, many conditions and damage surveys can be done in-water by commercial divers, which is often required for US Coast Guard in-water hull exams under 46 CFR 71.50-3. In-water work is a regulated commercial dive operation under OSHA 29 CFR 1910 Subpart T, so you can expect a full dive team. However, certain components—like props, shafts, or hull plating needing thickness gauging—may still require haul-out for a complete assessment, and your surveyor will tell you when that is necessary.

What does the final report look like, and what will it include?

You will receive a written report with condition or damage findings, photographs, and clear recommendations. It will reference the applicable standards, such as NBIS under 23 CFR 650.311 for a bridge or AWWA M42 for a water tank, depending on the asset. Turnaround time depends on the complexity, but the goal is to give you a document you can use for insurance claims, regulatory compliance, or maintenance planning.