What is a snagging list and are they worth it?
What a new-build snagging list is, what it covers, who should carry it out, and why it protects your investment.
Typically, when purchasing a new build home, everything may appear as though it has been completed to perfection on the surface. However, even brand-new properties can have hidden defects or unfinished details that need attention. This is where a snagging list comes in.
So, what does a snagging list consist of?
A snagging list is a checklist, outlining and recording any defects, faults, or unfinished work in a new build property that needs to be rectified by the developer before completion or shortly after moving in. It ensures that your home meets the required standards and is free from issues that could cause long-term problems.
Why is a snagging list important?
- Early identification – Catching faults before you move in prevents future inconvenience and costly repairs
- Quality standards – Developers are responsible for delivering a home that meets quality and safety regulations, and a snagging list holds them accountable
- Saves time and money – Addressing problems while the developer is still responsible can save you costly repairs in the future
- Enhances value – A properly finished home better retains its value
What does a snagging list include?
- Poorly finished paintwork or plastering
- Minor cosmetic issues, such as missing door handles and uneven fixtures
- Misaligned doors and windows
- Leaking pipes or poorly fitted plumbing
- Electrical issues, such as faulty sockets or lighting
- Defective tiling or flooring
- Cracks in walls or ceilings and other structural concerns
- Items not properly installed, such as kitchen appliances, boilers and water tanks
Who conducts a snagging list?
While homeowners can compile their own snagging list, hiring a professional such as a RICS-accredited surveyor provides an expert eye for detail. RICS surveyors have extensive knowledge of construction standards and can identify issues that may be overlooked by an untrained eye. Their unbiased reports also carry more weight when dealing with developers, builders and contractors.
When should a snagging inspection be conducted?
The best time to conduct a snagging inspection is before you finalise the purchase, ensuring issues are resolved before you move in. Where developers are unable to allow access beforehand, a snagging inspection should be carried out within the first few weeks of occupancy — the sooner, the better.
Snagging lists: worth it?
A snagging list is a pivotal tool in ensuring that your new home is delivered to the highest standards. By identifying and resolving defects early, you protect your investment and avoid future issues. Small issues can snowball into much larger problems, so it's crucial to have every 'snag', no matter how small, resolved as soon as possible.