If you are buying a new build home, arranging a snagging list is one of the most important steps you can take before or shortly after moving in. A new build snagging list helps identify defects, unfinished items and poor workmanship so that the builder or developer can correct them.
Many buyers assume a brand-new property will be perfect. In reality, even newly completed homes can contain a range of defects, from scratched windows and poor paintwork to plumbing issues, badly fitted doors and incomplete finishes. That is why understanding the snagging process is so important.
What Is a Snagging List?
A snagging list is a written schedule of defects found in a new build property.
It records the issues that need to be corrected by the builder before the home can truly be considered complete to a satisfactory standard. A snagging list can include minor cosmetic issues as well as more serious defects affecting quality, function or safety.
In simple terms, it is a checklist of everything that still needs to be put right.
What Is a Snagging Survey?
A snagging survey is the inspection carried out to identify the defects that go onto the snagging list.
The inspection may be completed by the buyer, but many people prefer to instruct a chartered surveyor or specialist snagging inspector to carry out a professional assessment. The result is usually a snagging report, which gives the buyer a structured record of the defects identified.
Do I Need a Snagging List for a New Build?
If you are buying a new build house or new build flat, a snagging list is strongly recommended.
Although snagging is not always a formal legal requirement, it is very much in your interests to prepare one. A new build property may be newly constructed, but that does not mean it will be free from defects. Construction programmes are often fast-moving, multiple trades work on site, and finishing issues are common.
A new build snagging list helps:
- identify faults before they worsen
- make sure the builder is aware of the issues
- create a written record of the defects
- reduce the risk of future expense
- give you confidence that the property has been properly checked
Why Is a Snagging List Important?
A snagging list for a new build home is important because some defects are easy to overlook during a quick handover or viewing.
Minor issues may include damage to decoration, scratched glass or poor sealant. More serious defects may involve plumbing, drainage, heating, insulation, poor fitting or incomplete installation. If these are not picked up early, they may become more disruptive and more costly to deal with later.
A proper snagging process helps make sure the property is finished to the standard you expected.
Who Prepares a Snagging List?
There are two main ways to deal with a new build snagging list.
DIY Snagging List
Some buyers choose to prepare their own snagging list. This can save money, but it relies on the buyer being confident enough to identify defects and incomplete works properly.
Professional Surveyor Snagging List
Many buyers choose to appoint a professional snagging surveyor or RICS surveyor to inspect the property. This is often the preferred option because a professional is more likely to identify issues that are not obvious to the average buyer.
A surveyor can also provide a clearer and more formal snagging report to present to the builder.
Is a Professional Snagging Survey Worth It?
A professional snagging survey is an additional cost, but it can be worthwhile when compared with the purchase price of the property and the potential cost of missed defects later on.
A professional inspection can help identify:
- workmanship issues
- incomplete items
- technical defects
- hidden problems
- quality concerns that a buyer may not spot
For that reason, many buyers consider a snagging survey a sensible investment when buying a new build property.
What Should a New Build Snagging List Include?
A snagging checklist for a new build should cover the whole property, both internally and externally.
Windows and Doors
A snagging inspection should check that windows and doors are properly fitted, aligned correctly and fully operational. Hinges, locks, handles and seals should all be checked carefully.
Roof
A new build snagging list should include the roof, with checks for cracked, missing or loose tiles and obvious defects in roof finishes or detailing.
Electrics
Sockets, switches, lighting and visible fittings should be inspected to make sure they are secure, neat and functioning correctly.
Heating and Insulation
The heating system should be tested, radiators checked, and insulation reviewed where accessible, especially within the loft.
Plumbing
Taps, showers, toilets and visible pipework should all be tested to check for leaks, drainage issues, poor pressure or defective installation.
Interior Finishes
A snagging list should also include cosmetic and finishing defects such as:
- poor paintwork
- defective plastering
- damaged skirting boards
- uneven flooring
- carpet defects
- badly fitted kitchen units
- poor sealant or grout finishes
Exterior Finishes
Externally, checks should include:
- brickwork and render
- drainage and gutters
- paving and driveways
- fences and gates
- general external finish quality
Common New Build Snagging Issues
Some of the most common snagging defects in new build homes include:
- scratched glazing
- poorly fitted doors
- patchy paintwork
- poor plaster finishes
- uneven floors
- leaking pipework
- damaged tiles
- loose roof tiles
- badly fitted kitchen cupboards
- missing insulation
- faulty switches or sockets
- poor mastic and silicone finishes
While some are minor, others can point to wider quality or workmanship concerns.
When Should a Snagging Survey Be Done?
The best time to arrange a snagging survey is as early as possible.
Ideally, the property should be inspected before legal completion if access is allowed. However, not all developers permit this. If snagging cannot be done before completion, it should be carried out as soon as possible after moving in.
The earlier the defects are identified, the easier it usually is to get them addressed.
Should You Do Snagging Before or After Completion?
The ideal position is to carry out snagging before completion where possible, but many buyers also benefit from a follow-up inspection after they move in.
Some defects only become obvious once the property is actually being lived in and used. Heating, plumbing, appliances, doors, drainage and finishes often reveal issues more clearly once the home is occupied.
What Happens After the Snagging List Is Prepared?
Once the snagging report or snagging list has been prepared, it should be sent to the builder or developer so that the defects can be reviewed and remedial works arranged.
A good snagging list should be clear and organised. Each item should identify:
- the location of the defect
- what the issue is
- what needs to be corrected
- photographs where useful
This helps avoid confusion and gives the builder a clear basis for dealing with the issues.
Do Builders Have to Fix Snagging Issues?
In most cases, builders are expected to correct defects that arise because the property has not been completed to the required standard.
That said, disagreements can sometimes arise where the builder argues that the issue is not a defect, is within tolerance, or falls outside what they accept as snagging. This is one reason why an independent snagging survey can be so useful, as it provides stronger evidence of the defects found.
How Long Do You Have to Report Snagging Issues?
The timeframe for reporting new build snagging defects can vary depending on the developer, the contract documentation and the warranty arrangements.
In practice, buyers should report defects as early as possible and not assume they can leave snagging until much later. Prompt reporting generally gives the strongest position and the best chance of getting issues resolved efficiently.
Get Your New Build Snagging List Today
A new build snagging list is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself when buying a newly built property. It helps identify defects, provides a clear written record, and gives the builder the opportunity to correct outstanding issues.
Whether you prepare the snagging list yourself or arrange a professional snagging survey, the key is to be thorough, organised and proactive. A new build home may be new, but that does not automatically mean it is free from problems.
A well-prepared snagging list can save time, reduce stress and help make sure your new home is delivered to the standard you expected.
If you need snagging list advice, give us a shout today.
