Snagging Lists: The Ultimate Guide For New Build Homes

Buying a new home is an exciting milestone. You step into a place that no one has lived in before, with clean walls, modern finishes, and the satisfaction of starting fresh. But even the best developers rarely deliver a property that could be 100% flawless. There are a number of small problems that are known in the industry as snag, always appearing once the dust settles. This is where a snag list becomes essential. You can take it as a quality check before shifting into your new house. By creating a detailed and clear snagging check list, you are not only going to protect your investment but also ensure that your new newly built property lives up to the standard you expected.

Key takeaways

A snagging list highlights defect or unfinished work in a new build
Issues can be minor or significant
It’s best to prepare a snagging list before or just after moving in
A professional snagging survey can save you time and support hidden fault
The cost usually ranges from £300-£600, depending on property size
The builder is responsible for fixing genuine snags under warranty
Acting quickly ensures defects are sorted out while your rights are strongest

What is Snagging?

Snagging is the process of inspecting a new property check for problems or unfinished details. Builders and developers work to tight deadlines, and even with quality control measures in places, minor flaws often slip through. These can include chips in tiles, wrongly fitted doors, uneven plaster or more serious problems like faulty electronics. The purpose of snagging is to catch these issues early, so the builder is obliged to fix them. Without a snagging list,you may find yourself paying out of pocket later for problems that should have been sorted before you moved in.

What is exactly a snagging list?

A snagging list (sometimes called a snag list or defects list) is simply a written record of every problem you find in a new build home. It can be as simple as a handwritten check list or as detailed as a digital rapport with photos. The snagging list does three things:

Document defects clearly, so there will be no space for argument later.
Organises repair, as the builder knows what to fix and where.
Protects you legally, providing evidence if a dispute arises.

Here is an example for better understanding: instead of writing bathroom problems, your list might say “main bathroom, shower door not closing flush, gap on button right corner, water leakage risk.” The more precise the list the faster your builder can act.

When should you get a snagging list?

Time is one of the biggest questions buyers face. There are two key opportunities:

Before compilation: Some developers allow you or your surveyor to inspect before legal handover. This could be a good choice as in case of any trouble, you can insist on fixing the snags before paying the final balance.
After compilation: If pre-handover access isn’t possible, arrange a snagging survey checklist as soon as you move in. In the UK, most new builds come with a warranty and a shorter defect liability period where builders are required to rectify faults.

Here is a general advice for you: don’t wait, the earlier you prepare your new build snagging list, the stronger your position when requesting repairs.

Common Examples of Snagging List

Every home is unique in its layout and design, yet snagging surveys often uncover the same recurring problems that new homeowners face. These issues can range from small cosmetic defects to more serious concerns that affect safety, comfort and long-term durability. Below are some of the most common snags found in new builds that are explained in more detail:

Walls & ceilings:

Cracks in plasters, uneven paintwork, or rough edges are among the most noticeable defects. While some hairline cracks are caused by natural settling, larger or poorly repaired racks may point to substandard workmanship.

Floors:

Loose tiles, gaps in laminate flooring, and squeaky floorboards are not just irritating but can also pose hazards over time. Poorly fitted flooring may allow moisture to seep underneath, causing damage and reducing the lifespan of the material.

Windows & doors:

Stiff hinges, faulty locks, or droughts around frames are very common in snagging surveys. These faults can reduce energy efficiency, make the home feel less secure, and lead to higher heating bills.

Kitchens:

Misaligned cupboard doors, chipped worktop, and faulty appliances are some of the most frustrating snagging new builds. As the kitchen is the heart of the home, even small defects here can feel disappointing. Poor quality sealing around sinks and worktops can also allow water to seep in, leading to swelling and damage.

Bathrooms:

Leaks under sinks, poorly sealed showers or broken tiles can cause long term issues if not addressed quickly. A badly sealed shower tray, for example, may allow water to get into the walls or floor, causing mould and damp problems that are expensive to fix later.

Electrics:

Non-functioning sockets, flickering lights, or missing safety labels can be both inconvenient and dangerous. Electrical systems should always meet strict safety standards, so even minor electrical faults should be flagged and corrected by the builder immediately.

Plumbing:

Low water pressure, leaking joints, or an unbalanced heating system are frequent plumbing snags. Poor plumbing installation can lead to more serious issues such as burst pipes or costly water damage if you left them unchecked.

Exteriors:

Snagging isn’t limited to the inside of the home. Loose roof tiles, blocked gutters,uneven paving, or poorly finished brick work can all impact the home’s durability and kerb appeal. Exterior snags can escalate quickly if ignored such as water damage,from overflowing gutters,or structural problems from failing roof tiles.

What should be involved in a snagging list?

A snagging list is much more than a quick stroll through your new home with a pen and paper. To truly protect your investment, it needs to be organised, detailed and easy to follow. A strong snagging list should include:

Room-by-room inspection

Work through the property in a logical order, starting from the front door and moving through each room one at a time. This helps ensure nothing gets overlooked.

Inside and outside checks

Many buyers focus only on the interiors, but external areas are just as important as the interior. Look at driveways, fencing, garden boundaries, external walls, gutters and roofs. Even small issues like uneven paving or poorly sealed windows can cause problems later.

Clear and specific notes

Vague comments like “paintwork needs attention” are helpful. Instead write things like “paint peeling above the living room radiator” or “bathroom does not stick when closing.” Precision avoids the confusion and makes it easier for the builder to put things right.

Photographic evidence

Always backup your list with photos. Images make it very clear what you are referring to and help settle any disagreement about whether an issue existed before you moved in. Many homeowners find it useful to number the photos and link them directly to the corresponding points in the list.

Progress tracking

A snagging list shouldn’t be static, it should evolve. Keep an updated version that shows which items have been fixed and which are outstanding. This gives you a clear record to refer back to if disputes arise.

Practical tools

Some people prefer a printed checklist they can carry around during inspections while others use spreadsheets to track items digitally. Professional snagging surveyors often provide comprehensive digital reports complete with images, severity ratings and recommendations for repairs.

How much does a snagging survey price?

The cost of a snagging survey in the UK can vary based on a few key factors such as the size of your property, its location and the level of detail required in the inspection. On average, here’s what you can expect to pay: Small flats or apartments: Typically range from £300-£400 as these properties take less time to inspect. Average sized houses: Usually cost between £450-£600, reflecting the extra rooms and details that need to be checked. Large homes, luxury builds or complex property: It can cost £700+, especially if the property has multiple floors, unusual layouts, or high end finishes that require more thorough checks. At first glance, it might seem like an extra cost on top of an already expensive process of buying a home. However, a snagging survey is less of an expense and more of an investment. Identifying defects early, such as poor workmanship, unfinished areas, or safety concerns, can save you thousands of pounds in future repair bills.

Who is responsible for compiling the snagging list?

The responsibility for preparing the snagging list sits with the buyer. You have the right to check your property and submit a list of defects. However the builder is legally responsible for fixing any genuine snags covered under warranty or the defect liability period. If you are not confident in spotting issues, hiring a professional snagging surveyor is the best option. Their detailed report becomes your official snagging list, giving you a stronger position when dealing with developers.

FAQ’S

Who pays for snagging?

The buyer usually pays for the snagging inspection, if they do it themselves or hire a professional. However the builder pays for correcting all valid issues found.

How long does a snagging survey take?

It depends on property size. A small flat may take two to three hours, while a larger detached home could take five to six hours.

Should snagging be done before or after completion?

The best option is before completion, as you can insist on repairs before final payment. If that isn’t possible, arrange a survey as soon as possible after moving.

The complete guide to snagging list for new build homes

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