Individuals purchasing luxury yachts typically expect them to be in excellent condition. While they may plan to make some cosmetic renovations, those acquiring vessels expect them to be safe and well-maintained.
Very few yacht owners realize that the vessels they purchase could potentially put their health and safety at risk. Particularly if they attempt to have remodeling done on the vessel, the owners and any workers performing that work could be at risk of asbestos exposure.
In scenarios where previous owners did not make appropriate disclosures regarding the materials used to manufacture or maintain the vessel, those exposed to asbestos after acquiring a yacht may hope to hold the previous owner accountable.
Many vessels contain some asbestos
The use of asbestos in maritime vessels was once incredibly common. Businesses used asbestos for everything from internal flame retardant sprays applied inside cabins to insulation within the walls of the vessel. Regulatory authorities have since prohibited the continued use of materials that contain asbestos in vessels.
Unfortunately, a large percentage of vessels constructed before 2011 maintain at least some asbestos. Vintage yachts that may have storied histories and beautiful design features could also contain carcinogenic materials throughout.
Not only does the presence of asbestos in a vessel potentially put the owners and passengers of the vessel at risk, but the presence of asbestos can also significantly increase the costs involved in repairing the vessel or remodeling it in the future.
Disclosures are mandatory
When owners of vessels are aware of dangerous materials and other concerning factors that may influence the price and seaworthiness of a yacht, they have an obligation to make thorough disclosures. In scenarios where prior owners may have claimed to have fully remediated the asbestos on a vessel or where they misrepresented the overall condition of the vessel, the current owners may have grounds to hold them accountable for incomplete disclosures and misrepresentation of the vessel’s condition.
Reviewing purchase documents and statements from repair or inspection professionals with a skilled legal team can help those concerned about the condition of a recently-acquired yacht evaluate their options. Legal action can sometimes help those who purchased vessels contaminated by asbestos hold the right party accountable for failing to inform them of the risks inherent in a transaction.
