Statutory surveys are periodic inspections required by international conventions and the national regulations of a ship’s flag state. Their purpose is to ensure that vessels comply with safety, environmental, and other legal standards.

Technical personnel of IMC GROUP P.C., are proper qualified / certified, and continuously trained (in house and by attending training seminars), with respect to the latest maritime regulations. As a result of the above they have been approved as “Surveyors / Auditors” from a number “Recognized Organization”, and are fully authorized to perform surveys-audits and issue relative statutory certificates on behalf of Flag State Administration

Furthermore, IMC GROUP P.C., through constituted collaboration agreements with “Recognized Organizations”, can offer following Statutory services / certificates on behalf of the Flag Administrations of Panama, Belize, Jordan.

Flag State Inspections are conducted by authorized Flag State Inspectors and encompass the verification of statutory documentation along with a comprehensive assessment of the vessel's structure, machinery, and equipment. Additionally, these inspections cover a broad range of areas, including lifesaving equipment, fire safety, navigation equipment, machinery space, structural conditions, crew accommodation, and documentation.

Thanks to the extensive experience, ongoing training, and professionalism of IMC GROUP P.C. surveyors, a number of them have been assigned as “Flag State Inspectors” on behalf of the following Flag State Administrations:

• Panama
• Marshall Islands
• Belize
• Liberia

Internal audits under the ISM (International Safety Management), ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security), and MLC (Maritime Labour Convention) frameworks are crucial for verifying that a company’s Safety Management System (SMC) is effectively implemented and compliant with international maritime regulations.

These audits go beyond fulfilling legal requirements — they are a proactive measure to identify gaps, improve safety and operational standards, and ensure that vessels are always inspection-ready for flag states, class societies, or third parties.

Internal audits are required annually to verify Safety Management System (SMS) effectiveness, while external audits, conducted by Flag States or Recognized Organizations (ROs), certify compliance for operation.

These audits are carried out either onboard or remotely, depending on operational needs, travel restrictions, or budget considerations.

Acquiring a second-hand vessel is a major investment that takes time and resource.

 It requires a thorough assessment of the candidate vessel and an understanding of the potential risks and capital demands associated with bringing a new vessel into the fleet before the final purchase decision is made.

IMC GROUP P.C is highly experienced in supporting and vessel owners in their risk assessment process ahead of a purchase, with technical due diligence and pre-purchase vessel surveys.

At IMC Group, we provide comprehensive Pre-RightShip Inspection services designed to ensure that your vessel is fully prepared for an official RightShip inspection. Our experienced marine inspectors conduct detailed assessments based on the latest RightShip RISQ (RightShip Inspection Questionnaire) standards, identifying potential deficiencies and offering practical guidance to achieve full compliance.

Through our structured approach, we help shipowners and managers minimize the risk of negative findings, improve operational safety, and enhance the vessel’s rating and chartering potential within the global dry bulk market.

• Full compliance readiness with the latest RightShip RISQ requirements
• Early identification and rectification of potential non-conformities
• Improved safety culture and crew awareness onboard
• Enhanced RightShip rating, increasing the vessel’s chartering opportunities
• Reduced risk of delays or rejection during the official inspection
• Tailored recommendations and follow-up support from IMC Group’s expert inspectors

At IMC GROUP P.C., we provide specialized consultancy and operational support for both Pre-PSC and Follow-Up PSC inspections, helping vessels and operators achieve full compliance and readiness.

Our services include :

• Identification and correction of potential PSC deficiencies before official inspections
• Evaluation of PSC findings in relation to the Company’s SMS and onboard implementation
• Crew briefings on common PSC deficiencies and inspection best practices
• Emergency drill evaluations to enhance readiness and safety culture
• Support in corrective actions and follow-up procedures after PSC inspections
• Assistance with preparation of responses to PSC observations and deficiencies
• Guidance on continuous compliance with international maritime regulations and standards