What is a snagging survey? The short answer
A snagging survey is an independent inspection of a newly built property designed to identify defects, poor workmanship, and incomplete finishes. It provides you with a comprehensive list of issues (snags) to present to your developer so they can fix them under warranty.
The Myth of the 'Perfect' New Build
It is a common misconception that a brand-new home will be flawless. In reality, modern construction involves multiple trades working under immense time pressure to meet developer deadlines. This inevitably leads to mistakes, rushed finishes, and oversights.
In our experience inspecting new estates across Hampshire, Surrey, and Berkshire, we regularly find 80+ defects on a single property.
What Does a Snagging Survey Cover?
Our snagging surveys are exhaustive. We check everything from the structural integrity of the roof to the finish of the skirting boards.
- Exterior: Brickwork, pointing, roof tiles, guttering, and landscaping.
- Interior Finish: Plastering, paintwork, tiling, and flooring.
- Fittings: Doors, windows, kitchen units, and bathroom sanitaryware.
- Compliance: Checking that the build meets basic building regulations, such as loft insulation depth and ventilation.
When Should You Get a Snagging Survey?
The best time to get a snagging survey is before you move in (pre-completion), though many developers will not allow independent surveyors on site until after legal completion.
If you have already moved in, you should aim to get the survey done within the first few weeks, and certainly before your two-year developer warranty expires. During this two-year period, the developer is legally obligated to fix any defects.
Why Not Just Do It Yourself?
While you might spot a scratched window or a loose door handle, an independent RICS surveyor is trained to find the hidden structural and technical defects that you will miss. Furthermore, developers are much more likely to action a professional, itemised report from an RICS-regulated firm than a handwritten list from a buyer.
Protect your investment. Contact us today to arrange your new build snagging survey.