Boat damage inspector

What does a boat damage inspector do? – Tasks and work environment

A boat damage inspector works with investigating, documenting, and assessing damages on boats, often on behalf of insurance companies or maritime firms. Tasks include inspecting boats after accidents, water damage, or other incidents, analyzing causes of damage, and preparing reports for claims adjustment and compensation. The role also involves contact with boat owners, shipyards, repair shops, and insurance adjusters to ensure accurate and fair handling of damage cases. The work environment is varied, including fieldwork at harbors, shipyards, and marinas, as well as administrative work at offices, requiring flexibility and precision.

Salary development over time

The salary for boat damage inspectors has shown stable and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,600 SEK per month, increasing to 41 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 43 600 SEK, representing an overall increase of about 10% over three years. This trend reflects an increased demand for specialized claims handling within the maritime sector and a need for higher skill levels in the profession. Market factors such as a growing recreational boat sector, more insurance claims, and increased technical requirements have contributed to rising salary levels. Salaries are also influenced by regional differences and educational background, with privately employed individuals with post-secondary education often earning at the higher end of the salary range.

Boat damage inspector salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 43 600 SEK/month
• Minimum salary: 39,900 SEK/month
• Maximum salary: 50,800 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 262 SEK
• Women: 42 300 SEK/month (93 % of what men earn)
• Men: 45 300 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on location and demand, especially in areas with a strong maritime presence.

Education and qualifications

To work as a boat damage inspector, a technical high school education combined with experience in the maritime industry is usually required, but many employers also prefer candidates with post-secondary studies in maritime, engineering, or insurance. Specialized courses and certifications in boat technology, insurance law, or claims adjustment are advantageous. Practical experience, such as working with boat repairs, maritime insurance, or technical inspections, is often essential for employment.

• High school education: Technical focus (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: YH vocational training or university in maritime, engineering, or insurance (2–3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in claims adjustment, boat technology, or insurance law
• Practical experience: Work at shipyards, marinas, or insurance companies
• Prerequisites: Good technical understanding and insight into boat construction

Common benefits and compensations

Boat damage inspectors are often offered benefits such as company cars, wellness allowances, insurance solutions, and sometimes performance-based bonuses. Flexitime and remote work are common, especially for administrative tasks. Some employers also provide further training and certification opportunities as part of employment conditions.

Competition and challenges

Competition for positions as a boat damage inspector is moderate but can vary by region and economic climate. Since the profession is relatively niche and requires both technical and legal expertise, it can sometimes be challenging to find qualified candidates. Challenges include quickly assessing complex damages, managing tight deadlines, and dealing with clients in stressful situations. Digitalization and increased documentation requirements also demand higher administrative skills and IT proficiency. Despite this, good employment opportunities exist, especially for those with a broad technical background and specialized knowledge in maritime insurance.

Tips for aspiring boat damage inspectors

To succeed as a boat damage inspector, it’s beneficial to combine technical curiosity with analytical skills and a high degree of independence. Building broad knowledge of boats, materials, and construction—preferably through practical experience or work at a shipyard—is a good first step. Attention to detail and precision are crucial, as damage assessments often require identifying and documenting small details accurately. Communication skills facilitate contact with clients and colleagues, especially in situations involving damages leading to financial disputes. For those who are solution-oriented and enjoy working independently, the role offers significant freedom. Continuing education in claims adjustment and insurance law is a way to stay competitive. Finally, the ability to handle stress and prioritize tasks is essential, especially during peak season when damage cases increase.

Key facts about boat damage inspectors

• Education level: High school or post-secondary technical education
• Work environment: Varied between fieldwork and office
• Typical employment: Employed by insurance companies or consulting firms
• Demand: 758 job openings in 2024
• Special skills: Boat technology, claims adjustment, insurance law

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years in the profession, a boat damage inspector can progress to more senior roles, such as specialist in certain damage types or team leader for an inspection team. Some choose to start their own consultancy or deepen their expertise in insurance law and claims adjustment at a higher level. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate no precise estimate for boat damage inspectors, but within the claims adjuster and appraiser group, demand remains stable with 758 job openings reported in 2024. The profession is influenced by economic cycles and the development of the boat industry, but technical competence and specialist knowledge offer good future prospects.

Frequently asked questions about boat damage inspectors

• What does a boat damage inspector earn?
  - The average salary is 43 600 SEK/month, with variations depending on experience and education.
• What education is required to become a boat damage inspector?
  - Technical high school education and preferably post-secondary studies in maritime, engineering, or insurance are recommended.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 93% of what men do in the profession.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are approximately 758 job openings within the profession, but competition and demand can vary regionally.
• What are the duties of a boat damage inspector?
  - Inspection of boat damages, documentation, claims adjustment, and communication with clients and insurance companies.
• What career paths are available?
  - Specialist roles, management, or self-employment as a consultant are common development opportunities.