Bury St Edmunds, UK - May 15 2018: Modern homes in the Moreton Hall development on a sunny day

NEW BUILD PROPERTYSnagging Lists

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WHAT IS A SNAGGING LIST?

A snagging list is a detailed report undertaken by our RICS qualified surveyors, that highlights the problems your developer is responsible for addressing before you move in. This can then be used as evidence to negotiate with your developer to have them rectify the issues.

Firstly, it’s important to note that this is not a structural survey, which would advise you on the construction type, cause of defects and detail the remedial works, as well as other factors like legal and environmental issues. A snagging list instead provides a photographic schedule of any small defect or problem so they can be addressed by your house builder.

We survey every nook and cranny of your home to find defects ranging from untidy paint finishes to uneven floors. But we don’t just do a visual inspection, we also use socket testers to check all plug sockets, thermal imaging camera to check underfloor heating and an anemometer to check extraction fans work.

Then, we’ll provide you with a photographic report that contains all the evidence you need to force your developer into making amends.

Some of the most common problems we find in new builds include:

  • Uneven stairs and floors.
  • Cracking to plaster finishes.
  • Unfinished fittings.
  • Poorly installed doors, windows and frames.
  • Untidy paint finishes.

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN A SNAGGING SURVEY?

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Download Snagging List Example Report
  • A comprehensive schedule report which includes photographs.
  • Covers internal and external snags for houses, and internal snags for flats.
  • Undertaken by our expert new build snagging specialist.
  • Identifies any issues or snags to be addressed by your developer.
  • Snags include: decorative defects, kitchen and bathroom issues, poorly fitting joinery, etc.
  • Use of technology such as socket testers, thermal imaging cameras to check underfloor heating and anemometers.

WHY DO I NEED A SNAGGING LIST?

Many people have never heard of the term snagging list. Others simply don’t understand the point of having a new-build property examined for damages.

The truth is, most people ought to get a snagging list because:

  • Over half of new-build properties have hidden defects.
  • Some new-build homes have between 50 and 150 problems.
  • You might end up having to cover the cost of repairs if you fail to force your developer to live up to their obligations.
  • The Sale and Supply of Goods Act doesn’t apply to properties (it ensures you can get a refund for most goods that don’t meet your expectations).

We would recommend that a snagging list is undertaken before your completion date so that you can ensure any issues are rectified before you move in.

THE BENEFITS OF A SNAGGING LISTS

View at new modern English Estate.

Now you know that new-build homes aren’t always as perfect as they seem. Sometimes, they’re in worse shape than houses that have been well-maintained for decades. By obtaining a snagging list, you can:

  • Force your developer to rectify issues before you move in.
  • Allow an impartial surveyor to highlight problems and provide overall repair cost estimates.
  • Ensure your future home will be a safe place to live.
  • Save potentially tens of thousands of pounds.