Step 1: Membership Application Pack

To start the application process please request a membership application pack by telephoning or emailing us - details below. You will then receive an email with several documents attached, including an application form, a Sample Report Pack and some guidance on preparation of reports for submission. It is not intended that you produce identical reports to the pack, but that you use these reports as guidance to the extent of information we are looking for in your reports.

As part of your application we require 2 sample designs reflecting the scope of your work (Designer Application) or 2 Full Condition Survey reports (Surveyor Application). This is so we can assess your application if they are of the same material (e.g. FRP). If you wish to submit different materials, we need one report for each material (e.g. FRP, Steel and Wood).

Step 2: Application and Assessment Dates

• Applicants must complete a YDSA Membership Application form and provide all the required details and documents.
• Once applications have been submitted their completed Membership forms, our YDSA Membership Coordinator will be in contact with details on how to pay the application fee.
• Fully completed application forms will be assessed at the next YDSA Committee Meeting (provided the application fee has also been paid).
• Please contact the YDSA Membership Coordinator if you have any questions - membership@ydsa.co.uk

Step 3: The Assessment Process

Applications are assessed by several YDSA Committee Members and applicants may be invited to attend an Assessment Panel (via Teams) to discuss their application and to ensure it is to the standard required for the requested level of membership.

For example, the Affiliate grade is looking for evidence of technical knowledge which is expressed clearly with appropriate recommendations. For Accredited grade, relevant items should be well described, any consequences clearly explained and any work required is properly specified. Feedback will be provided via the office to the applicant and assessors often offer to talk through comments to help applicants further.

YDSA sets high standards as we believe it is important that members provide a competent and professional service to their clients. But given the complexity and differences of material types, equipment on board, etc., and that the assessors are looking for more than just a technical description of the problems, there is no set style as every designer/surveyor will develop their own layout and style.

NB: Professional Indemnity (PI) Insurance

We require members at all grades of professional membership to hold appropriate Professional Indemnity Insurance. This PI Insurance is to cover a minimum of £100,000 each and every claim or £250,000 aggregate and cover the work done by the YDSA Member, and includes sufficient legal costs cover as well as boat value. Designers and Surveyors should discuss their specific business with insurers so they have sufficient cover.

YDSA has a scheme with Winter & Co (Marine) who provide professional indemnity insurance for marine professionals and understand the cover needed by a designer or surveyor. Public Liability insurance is also required. Email p.winter@winterandcomarine.com, call 01255 831111 or take a look at their website.