Every snag is keyed to a room and exact location.
SPECIALIST / EVIDENCE FILE / MBC
Snagging surveys for new-build properties
New does not mean defect-free. New-build homes routinely complete with tens — sometimes hundreds — of defects, from cosmetic finishing issues to poorly installed insulation, defective roof coverings and non-compliant workmanship that the buyer is never told about.
01 / SYMPTOM → EVIDENCE
When to book a snagging survey
A snagging survey is a detailed, methodical inspection of a new-build property, before or shortly after completion, producing a comprehensive schedule of defects for the developer to rectify. It puts the inspection knowledge of a chartered building professional — with years spent inside contracting operations — on your side of the transaction.
- 01
Before legal completion, where the developer permits access — the strongest negotiating position
- 02
Shortly after completion, ideally within the first weeks of occupation
- 03
Before the end of the builder’s two-year warranty period, to capture defects while the developer remains liable
- 04
Where a developer has disputed or dismissed defects you have reported yourself
What the survey covers
- E01
A systematic room-by-room internal inspection: finishes, joinery, fittings, doors and windows, services (visual)
- E02
External inspection: brickwork, pointing, roof coverings (from ground level or by drone where appropriate), rainwater goods, drainage, landscaping and boundaries
- E03
Roof space inspection including insulation coverage and workmanship
- E04
Thermal imaging where temperature conditions are suitable, to identify insulation gaps, cold bridging and air leakage patterns
- E05
A comprehensive, photographed defect schedule formatted for submission to the developer
- E06
Optional 360° capture — a dated whole-property condition record from day one
- E07
Guidance on pursuing rectification through the developer and warranty provider
02 / METHOD
How it works
A traceable line from symptom to evidence, cause and next action.- 01
EVIDENCE GATE / 1
Book around your completion date
Tell us where you are in the purchase — pre-completion access, just moved in, or approaching the two-year warranty deadline.
- 02
EVIDENCE GATE / 2
Inspection
A methodical inspection, typically two to four hours depending on property size.
- 03
EVIDENCE GATE / 3
Defect schedule
A clear, photographed schedule of every defect found, normally delivered within three to five working days, ready to submit to the developer.
- 04
EVIDENCE GATE / 4
Follow-up if needed
Re-inspection after rectification works can be arranged to confirm defects have been properly addressed.
03 / BEFORE YOU INSTRUCT
Questions worth answering first.
Scope, access, limitations and what happens after the inspection—explained before they become surprises.
Can the developer refuse access before completion?
Some do. If pre-completion access is refused, book the inspection as soon as possible after you get the keys — your contractual and warranty rights still apply.
Is a snagging survey worth it on a warrantied home?
Yes. Warranties respond mainly to major structural defects after year two; the developer’s obligation to fix general defects is strongest in the early period — and only for defects that are formally reported. A professional schedule makes that reporting comprehensive and hard to dismiss.
How is this different from the NHBC or warranty inspection?
Warranty inspections during construction are limited spot-checks for the warranty provider’s purposes, not a completion inspection for you. A snagging survey is done solely in your interest.
What if the developer disputes the findings?
The schedule is evidence-based and photographed precisely so that it stands up. If a dispute escalates, further support is available through the building consultancy service.
NEW INSTRUCTION / Snagging surveys
Turn the symptom into evidence.
Send the property address and the situation for a fixed quote and an honest recommendation.
Request a quote