Frequently
Asked Questions

• Identify defects 
  Snags are common in new builds due to the fast pace of construction. A professional survey can uncover many issues, giving you a detailed report to present to the developer.

• Prevent costly repairs 
  Catching issues like incorrect plumbing or insufficient insulation early ensures the developer pays for the fixes under warranty. If left unresolved, these repairs could become your financial responsibility later.

• Provide leverage 
  A formal snagging report from an independent professional carries more weight than a complaint from a homeowner and can motivate the developer to resolve issues promptly.

• Ensure quality and safety 
  Beyond cosmetic issues, a good survey checks for more serious problems like breaches of building regulations, ensuring the home is built to the proper standard.

• Gain peace of mind 
  The investment provides confidence that your new home is built correctly and safely before you fully commit or move in. 

A comprehensive snagging survey covers both the interior and exterior of the property, as well as garages, driveways, and gardens. Items checked can include: 

• Structural elements
  Inspecting brickwork for alignment, checking for damaged or loose roof tiles, and looking for issues with walls, ceilings, and floors.

• Finishes and fittings
  Assessing the quality of paintwork and plastering, checking that doors and windows operate smoothly and are properly sealed, and ensuring skirting boards are fitted correctly.

• Plumbing and utilities
  Testing heating systems, taps, showers, and electrical sockets, and looking for signs of leaks or faulty connections. Some surveys may use thermal imaging to detect heat loss or dampness.

• Insulation
  Checking for insufficient insulation in the loft and wall cavities. 

The ideal time to have a snagging survey done is before you complete the purchase and move in, if your developer allows.

If a pre-completion inspection is not possible, you should arrange for a survey as soon as possible after getting the keys. In the UK, developers are typically responsible for fixing defects for two years after completion under the home's warranty.

The cost of a professional snagging survey typically starts from around £300, but the price can vary depending on the property's size, location, and the level of detail offered. While an added cost, it is often a worthwhile investment to avoid potentially much higher repair costs down the line. 

A snagging inspection consists of a detailed visual examination of a new build property to identify defects, unfinished tasks, and poor quality work before completion or within a specified warranty period, typically two years. An inspector checks the interior and exterior of the property, including areas like paintwork, tiling, doors, windows, electrical fittings, and plumbing, to ensure the home is completed to the agreed standards and is safe and functionally sound.

A thorough snagging inspection will examine:

• Interior Finishes 
  Checking for problems with paintwork (scratches, runs, blemishes), tiling (uneven spacing, poor grout), and flooring. 

• Fixtures and Fittings
  Verifying that all fixtures and fittings (handles, hinges, locks) are properly installed, functional, and free from damage. 

• Doors and Windows
  Ensuring doors and windows are fitted correctly, open and close smoothly, are free from drafts and gaps, and have working locks. 

• Structural and Functional Aspects
  Looking for deeper issues, which can include uninsulated cavities, improperly fitted roof tiles, and potential leaks or electrical faults, sometimes using technology like thermography to detect hidden problems. 

• Exterior and Landscaping
  Inspecting external elements such as the driveway, garage, and any landscaping to ensure they meet quality standards.