Many buyers assume new build properties don't need surveys. This is false economy. New builds frequently have defects requiring correction before completion. Professional snagging surveys identify issues ensuring developers fix problems before you complete. As chartered surveyors conducting snagging inspections throughout Staffordshire, we explain why these surveys protect new build buyers.
What is a Snagging Survey?
Snagging surveys are specialist inspections identifying defects in new build properties. Unlike standard building surveys assessing overall condition, snagging focuses on construction quality, finishing standards, compliance with building regulations, and items needing correction by developers. Conducted before or immediately after completion, ensuring developers remedy problems.
Why New Builds Have Defects
New builds should be perfect but reality differs. Common causes include construction pressures meeting completion deadlines, subcontractor quality variations, insufficient site supervision, rushed finishing work, and complex supply chains. Even reputable developers have occasional quality issues. Our snagging surveys on new Cannock developments regularly identify 50-100+ defects per property.
Common New Build Defects
Cosmetic Defects
Poor paintwork and decoration, scratched or damaged fittings, uneven flooring, poorly fitted kitchen units, damaged tiles, and silicon gaps or poor finishing. While minor, these affect your enjoyment and should be developer's responsibility.
Building Quality Issues
Doors not closing properly, windows not opening or sealing, plasterwork cracks and imperfections, uneven walls or ceilings, squeaky floors, and poor insulation installation. These affect functionality and comfort.
Services Problems
Heating systems not working properly, faulty electrics or insufficient sockets, plumbing leaks or poor installation, inadequate ventilation, and drainage issues. Services problems cause ongoing issues if not addressed.
External Defects
Brickwork defects or poor pointing, roof issues, blocked gutters or downpipes, unfinished landscaping, damaged paths or driveways, and boundary issues. External problems affect curb appeal and property value.
When to Arrange Snagging Surveys
Pre-Completion Inspection
Ideal timing is 1-2 weeks before completion. Property substantially finished but developers can still access easily. Identified defects added to completion snagging list. Strongest negotiating position as completion can be delayed if serious issues found.
Post-Completion Inspection
Conducted within first few weeks after moving in. Still within warranty period and builder's defects liability. Useful if pre-completion inspection wasn't possible. Less leverage but developers typically still address issues.
What Snagging Surveys Cover
Professional snagging inspections examine internal decorat and finishing, all fittings and fixtures, doors and windows, electrical installations, plumbing and heating, kitchen and bathrooms, flooring throughout, external walls and roof, gardens and boundaries, and garage or outbuildings. Comprehensive room-by-room inspection taking 2-4 hours depending on property size.
The Snagging Report
After inspection, you receive detailed snagging report listing all defects found, categorized by room and severity, with photographs of each issue, and recommendations for rectification. Reports typically identify 50-150 defects in average new builds. Some minor cosmetic, others requiring significant correction.
Using Your Snagging Report
Submit to Developer
Provide report to developer's customer care team. Most reputable developers address snagging lists professionally. Some resist - professional reports with photographs provide strong evidence.
Negotiation Tool
If completion hasn't occurred, serious defects provide negotiation leverage. Delay completion until addressed or negotiate price reduction. Professional reports strengthen your position.
Warranty Claims
NHBC or similar warranties cover structural defects. Snagging reports document issues from outset, supporting future warranty claims if problems persist.
Developer Responsibilities
Developers are responsible for completing properties to acceptable standards, addressing snagging issues within reasonable timeframes, ensuring building regulations compliance, and providing warranties for defects. Don't accept substandard work - professional snagging reports hold developers accountable.
NHBC and Warranties
Most new builds have 10-year NHBC warranties or equivalents. Warranties cover major structural defects but not minor snags. First two years, builders responsible for all defects. Years 3-10 cover major structural problems only. Snagging surveys ensure minor issues addressed during builder responsibility period.
Snagging Survey Costs
Snagging inspections typically cost £300-£600 depending on property size. Small investment compared to property value and ensuring defects are corrected. Many buyers save thousands by identifying issues before completion.
DIY Snagging vs Professional Surveys
Some buyers attempt DIY snagging. However, professionals offer expertise identifying defects missed by untrained eyes, experience knowing what's acceptable vs unacceptable, detailed reports developers take seriously, and photographs documenting every issue. Professional reports carry more weight with developers.
New Build Developments in Staffordshire
New developments throughout Cannock, Hednesford, Rugeley, and Burntwood provide opportunities for modern homes. Our snagging surveys on these developments help buyers ensure properties meet expected standards before completion.
Get Professional Snagging Surveys
If you're purchasing a new build in Cannock or Staffordshire, contact our surveyors for professional snagging inspection. We identify defects ensuring developers correct problems, protecting your investment and peace of mind.
Don't assume new means perfect. Professional snagging surveys ensure you get the quality home you're paying for.