What is a snagging Survey?
A snag is a defect which needs to be repaired.
When buying a new build home, you might be under the impression that it will be 100% perfect and ready to move in. In reality, there will almost always be things which haven’t been finished. A snagging survey/report will highlight all areas of the property which need attention.
A snagging survey is there to spot problems both big and small. From the small and cosmetic, to significant and structural. A snagging survey is a visual survey to check the quality of workmanship against applicable standards.
It is designed to check for problems with a new-build home. The best time to have a snagging survey done is the period between building work being finished and your legal completion date, so the developer has time to fix any snags before you move in.
Unlike traditional housebuyers surveys; snagging surveys should pick up everything from minor issues, such as a door that doesn't close properly or a worktop with a dodgy finish, to more serious structural problems. The most common issues picked up by snagging surveys tend to be with plastering, tiling, skirting boards and external brickwork.
Each developer has their own process with regards to giving you the opportunity to see the house before you complete.
Usually, they will book an appointment a few weeks before you complete to show you around the house and go through potential snags with you. This will give you the opportunity to raise any issues with them. During your appointment, you should be fussy and point to anything which you feel falls below the expected standard. It is always more difficult to get repairs done once you have moved in. Remember you are protected by a 2-year warranty that developers are obliged to honor by law. In addition, if they are NHBC regulated, you have a 10-year warranty to protect you against any defects. These protections mean that you can instruct a surveyor at any time after you move in, even if the basic snags have already been repaired.
If you'd like to speak to one of our colleagues to find out more please email or call.