The 'Appraisal' or 'Valuation' survey is the most basic type of survey. This type of survey is required where there is a need to establish a 'fair market value' for the vessel, perhaps for the purposes of obtaining a loan, or to settle an estate, or to document a donation for tax, or other legal purposes. An Appraisal survey may also be used to provide basic information to insurance companies, sometimes accompanied by a brief description of the overall condition of the vessel, looking at the hull and structural integrity and some brief commentary on the equipment and its condition.