Snagging FAQs

The term 'snagging' involves checking a new build for faults, that will need to be rectified. A snagging survey is used to determine these faults and help give new-build homeowners peace of mind. 

But what exactly is involved with a snagging survey? Here, we try to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about a new build snagging inspection.

What is a snagging survey?

A snagging survey is the process of checking a new (or recently built) building for defects, no matter how big or small. A well-conducted snagging survey should pick up issues from paint drips or scratches on worktops, to uninsulated cavities and improperly fitted roof tiles. At Ignite Property Group, our snagging surveys will provide you with pictures of the defects, a description, and the relevant NHBC standard, detailing how it should be, if necessary. We also offer the option for a thermographic survey which will help to detect leaks, dampness or drafts before they become serious issues.   

Our honest and conscientious inspectors are all trained by the NHBC and have a passion for ensuring new homes are built safely and correctly.

View an Example Snagging Survey

Why should you get a snagging survey?

A snagging survey will give you all the information you will need to take back to your house builder to get them to rectify any issues. Your house builder then has the responsibility to fix any issues with your new home (free of charge as long as they are reported within the first 2 years of it being built). 

If you think there are issues with your new home or you have concerns with it, a professional snagging inspection will help to put your mind at ease if nothing is found, or will give you the detailed information to take back to the building company. If defects are not found in time, they become your responsibility and can cost you thousands of pounds to rectify in later years.

The purchase of your new home is probably the biggest purchase you will ever make, but yet it is one of the least protected as it does not fall under the ‘Sales of Goods Act’. Having one of our inspectors complete a snagging survey on your new home, is the best way to ensure it is built correctly and has been finished properly. It offers you peace of mind and helps to stop larger issues developing further down the line.

Book your snagging survey with Ignite Property Group. 

Is a snagging survey right for me?

A snagging survey is not a legal requirement and you do not have to have one. However, ensuring a survey is completed can help to eliminate larger problems later. For example, a small leak on a water pipe from the water tank picked up in the snagging survey is a relatively small issue and easy fix. If left unnoticed, this can lead to damp, mould and even a ceiling failing down later down the line. 

A question to ask yourself to find out if a survey is right for you; how many issues could you pick up yourself? For example, a very common ‘snag’ is an incorrectly fixed weep hole in the brick work. This could then lead to serious levels of damp in the property. Is this something that you would spot? If not, that's precisely why we are here to help! Our surveyors have lots of experience and a keen eye for detail. Why not book your snagging survey with Ignite Property Group today? 

When is the ideal time to get a snagging survey?

Ideally, the best time is as soon as the property is finished and before you move in. This may not always be possible, so a snagging survey as the soon as you move in, the better. This leaves the house builder with less time to argue as to who is at fault for the issues. We typically complete most of our surveys within the first week of you moving in.

Did you know, if your house has its warranty with the NHBC (over 90% of new homes have this), your house builder has an obligation to fix any faults with the property that occur within the first 2 years. If your house is less than 2 years old (even if you’re not the first owner), it’s not too late - contact us as soon as possible to arrange your survey.

What do I get with a snagging survey?

With our professional snagging surveys, which are always carried out by an NHBC trained inspector, you will receive your report within 24 hours. Within the report, you will find pictures and a clear description of each issue that our surveyors find. We don’t use jargon or industry specific terms, you’ll be able to understand the issues to get in contact with your builder to start rectifying them.

If you opt for our thermographic survey, you’ll also receive pictures and details of any leaks, damp or heat escape that is detected. 

Can all properties have a snagging survey?

All new build properties should have a snagging survey carried out. Even if you're not the first owner of your home, if it is less than 2 years old and covered by the NHBC warranty, the developer is responsible for putting any defects right. 

From flats and coach houses to mansions and town houses, if your home is less than 2 years old, it is suitable for a snagging survey. 

How much does a snagging survey cost?

At Ignite Property Group, our professional snagging survey service starts from just £250 for flats and £350 for houses. The final price and time it takes will depend on the size of your home. 

See snagging survey pricing or get in touch to find out more. 

Which areas of the property are inspected?

To put it simply, all of them! Our surveyors will not move furniture or remove fixtures and fittings but they will inspect every accessible area of the property. Our inspections follow a 'top to bottom' formula; this means that we will inspect every possible area of the property, from the roof space, through every room inside the home, to the external of the building and surrounding areas, including driveway and gardens. 

If there's a particular area that you have concerns or questions about, please do not hesitate to speak to our surveyor or get in touch with us. 

How is the inspection typically carried out?

Our surveyors have a wealth of equipment at their disposal, and coupled with their knowledge and experience, provide a quality inspection for peace of mind. By following the 'top to bottom' formula, our inspections ensure every accessible part of your property is inspected and reported on. 

The majority of the survey is carried out visually; this is where our surveyors use their knowledge and experience to assess and report on the quality of workmanship. We will use lasers, spirit levels and square edges to ensure surfaces are level and straight. Our teams will also have access to binoculars and ladders, enabling them to inspect the more difficult to reach areas of the property such as the loft space and roof. 

Our new build snagging surveys are based on the latest NHBC standards, so you have the confidence that your home is built correctly and within the latest specifications. However, the detail and quality of our inspections go well beyond that of the NHBC New Home Checklist.  

What to expect from a snagging survey?

Your survey will usually take between 2 and 3 hours depending on the size of your property. You can expect our surveyor to inspect every accessible part of your home, be completely approachable and honest with you, and they will ensure to go over the most important of their findings with you before they leave.

Once completed, you will receive your report within 24 hours. You will find the report easy to read, simple to understand and complete with pictures of each defect. Where appropriate, our surveyors will detail the NHBC standard that is being breached by the defect, this makes it very simple and clear when you go back to your developer and should eliminate the chance for any arguments. 

View an Example Snagging Survey