Sometimes the boat is in a mud berth in Panama, not a sterile yard in Fort Lauderdale. Adaptability is key.
1. The Kit
If you fly to a survey, you can't bring everything.
Essentials: Moisture meter, percussion hammer, rigorous flashlight, camera, scraper.
Leave Behind: Heavy specialized tools. You might have to borrow a ladder.
2. Lighting is Everything
Remote boats are often dark (no shore power). Bring a high-lumen headlamp AND a backup hand light. You cannot survey what you cannot see.
3. The "Trust No One" Rule
In remote sales, the local yard/broker often has a symbiotic relationship with the seller. Do not rely on their haul-out strap placement or their mechanic's word. Verify everything yourself.
Conclusion
Remote surveys are high-risk. Charge a premium for the difficulty, and add a disclaimer: "Inspection limited by lack of shore power/haul-out facilities."