Why and how was Boat History Report involved with the UCOTVA? “Consumer safety is critical to the boating industry and Boat History Report (BHR) felt that there was no reason that the same laws put in place to protect car buyers shouldn't be in place to protect boat buyers. All other states only issue clean titles for boats, even if there is nothing left of the boat to title!” A clean title for a boat doesn't mean much as there are only 5 states that have adopted UCOTVA. It is very much a common misconception by both boat owners and boat sellers (dealers/brokers) that a clean title for a boat means it’s actually a clean title. This is one step in the right direction towards creating greater transparency in the marine industry. What is “Carfax for Boats”? What will it do and how will it help boat owners? “The recent Uniform Certificate of Title for Vessels Act (UCOTVA) that was dubbed the 'Carfax for Boats Law' is a law that requires hull-damaged vessels to be branded as such on a title. NICB spoke with Caroline Mantel of Boat History Report about the recently passed law. The UCOTVA (not just in Florida) protects consumers from buying boats with previous damage, offers greater lending security, and provides clear ownership records, ultimately helping consumers make more informed decisions when purchasing used boats. The law gives protection for consumers interested in purchasing a boat. This law is officially called the Uniform Certificate of Title for Vessels Act (UCOTVA). Recently in Florida, the “Carfax for Boats” law was passed, and will go into effect in July of 2023. A boat’s history could include incidence of theft, accident, damage, flooding, fire, hurricanes… any event that could lead to issues with safety or longevity, or could jeopardize the integrity of the boat. But, like used vehicles, some used boats have a less than favorable history. Similar to shopping for a used vehicle, a used boat is often a more affordable and practical option.

National Commercial Vehicle and Cargo Theft Prevention Task Force.

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