Everything You Need to Know About Snagging for Your New Build
What is Snagging?
Snagging is the process of identifying defects, imperfections, or issues within a newly built property. These snags can range from minor cosmetic issues to more serious, structural faults. They are usually categorized as follows:
- Cosmetic Snags: Includes inconsistent or damaged paintwork, scratches on windows, and uneven finishes.
- Functional Issues: Examples include faulty sockets, switches, toilets that don't flush properly, misaligned kitchen cabinets, or doors that don’t close properly.
- Structural Problems: Serious issues like cracks in walls, foundation shifts, roof problems, or damp patches.
The snagging process is typically carried out once your builder finishes working on the property. Ideally, you should perform snagging before completing your new home purchase, but not all developers allow this.
Why is It Better to Do Snagging Before You Move In?
Performing snagging before moving in is ideal because the property will be free of furniture and personal belongings, allowing you to better inspect every part of the home—including walls, cupboards, floors, and even the loft space. Additionally, it ensures that your builder cannot blame you for minor issues, as you haven’t moved in yet.
If pre-completion snagging is not an option, carry out snagging immediately after moving in. Many builders follow a 7-day rule (sometimes extending to 14 days), requesting that you report snags, particularly cosmetic ones, within this timeframe. After this period, it becomes more difficult to prove responsibility, but you should still report any snags as your developer is obligated to resolve defects caused by their failure to meet required building standards under your 2-year builder warranty.
Performing a Second Check for Issues
Even if you completed a snagging list before moving in, it’s important to perform another check once you start living in your new build home. During this time, you may notice more significant defects such as problems with radiators, showers, creaky floorboards, or leaks. These should be reported to your developer in the same manner as your initial snagging list.
How to Snag Successfully
You have two options for snagging: do it yourself or hire a professional with structural and building knowledge. While the DIY approach is cheaper, a professional may identify issues that you could miss. They’ll be familiar with current building regulations and standards and provide detailed reports with photos and references. This can be invaluable if you need to dispute issues with your developer.
If You Choose to Do It Yourself:
- Submit Your List On Time: Ensure you send your snagging list within the required timeframe (typically 7 days) to your developer’s customer service team. Keep records of all correspondence.
- Be Detailed: Include descriptions, dates, and photos of each issue. Even minor cosmetic flaws should be documented thoroughly.
- Welcome a Visit from Your Builder: Be prepared for your builder to review your list in person.
- Keep Your Snagging List on File: Take before-and-after photos of any remedial work done, and maintain a record of all interactions with your developer.
Even if you're handy around the house, avoid attempting to fix snags yourself. If something goes wrong, your developer may claim you caused the issue.
Using a Snagging List
A quick online search will yield many options for snagging lists, and there are even YouTube videos on the topic. However, we recommend using the Barratt Homes room-by-room snagging checklist. It’s structured to guide you through every area of your home, both inside and out, ensuring you don’t miss anything. You can access the Barratt Homes checklist here.
How Much Does a Snagging Survey Cost?
The cost of a snagging survey varies depending on the type of survey, the size of the property, and your location. Pre-completion inspections are generally less expensive due to their shorter duration. On average, you can expect to pay around £360 to £480, though larger properties or homes in London or the Southeast could cost upwards of £600.
Unsure About Snagging?
If you’re uncertain about the answers you’re receiving from your developer or need more clarity on snags and other issues with your new build, the New Homes Quality Board (NHQB) has created a comprehensive guide. It covers everything from defects and warranty information to what to do if issues aren’t resolved. You can download the NHQB Snagging Guide here.
If you’re still in the process of searching for your dream new build home, make it easier on yourself by using our new home search tool. Simply type the postcode or location you’re interested in, and we’ll provide a list of available new homes nearby. Start your search here.
