We often receive enquiries about the effect on IRC rating if items of fitted interior are removed, in particular from production boats, e.g. tables, doors, floorboards, standard fittings such as cookers, etc. The removal of such items is discouraged, as it is not within the spirit of the IRC rule.
IRC Rule 22 states:
22.2.1 Hull factor (HF) is calculated by the Rating Authority and is an evaluation of features of the boat and their character and efficiency.
22.2.2 Stripped out interiors, the use of light and hi-tech structures and/or materials, removal of furniture or other fitted equipment, etc. may lead to the application of higher than standard hull factor to compensate for potential increase in performance. Such features shall be declared to the Rating Authority.
22.2.3 The rated Hull Factor assumes that the boat is fitted out at least to the production specification and materials and/or to the condition when last measured/inspected. This does not negate owners’ responsibilities under Rules 8.9, 22.2.2 and RRS 78.1.
PRODUCTION BOATS:
The removal of fitted standard items SHALL BE DECLARED and, in addition to any decrease in weight, may incur an increase to Hull Factor as follows:
- – table + 0.1
- – any other items + 0.1 each
e.g. a production boat from which the table, floorboards and 2 doors were removed could have the hull factor increased by 0.1 (table) + 0.1 (floorboards) + 0.1 (door 1) + 0.1 (door 2) = total HF increase 0.4.
NON-PRODUCTION BOATS (custom or modified boats etc.)
The same may apply as for Production boats if changes are made to the accommodation and/or interior since the last application or information supplied for rating.
Full details of the items removed and their respective weights shall be advised to the rating office.
Note also IRC rules 22.1 and 17.2.