everything you need to know before you book start here

Snagging is the process of checking a new-build property for defects, poor workmanship, or issues that might breach building regulations. A professional snagging inspector will look for cosmetic flaws and serious faults alike, anything from scratches on worktops to poor caulking or structural irregularities. It’s a vital step for new homeowners who want to protect their investment and ensure that every part of the property meets quality standards.

A new build snagging survey is a methodical inspection carried out by a qualified inspector to identify any defects in a newly constructed home. Once complete, a detailed snagging report is shared with the property owner and the developer. We specialise in new build snagging surveys across the UK, helping homeowners receive the quality they were promised. A typical inspection takes 3–4 hours depending on property size and finish.

Understanding Snagging Inspection Costs in the UK

One of the most common questions we receive is: “What is the typical snagging inspection cost in the UK?”
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Ideally, snagging should be completed before legal completion. This gives the builder time to rectify issues while still on-site. However, snagging can also be done post-completion. UK homeowners have up to two years to submit a snag list. Whether before or after move-in, it’s best to hire a snagging inspector early to avoid disputes with the builder later.

Snags range from cosmetic issues to structural problems. Some examples include:

• Poor plasterwork or cracked ceilings
• Scratched windows or damaged doors
• Uneven stairs or loose flooring
• Paint splashes, grout gaps, or misaligned units
• Damaged turf or poor insulation

A new build snagging survey can uncover 100+ issues in a single home, many of which go unnoticed by untrained eyes.

Urgent defects that affect safety or breach NHBC guidelines must be fixed immediately. Cosmetic issues often depend on contractor availability. While minor items could be resolved within days, some, like custom parts, may take weeks. Hiring a professional snagging company ensures your list is clear and actionable.

Usually not. Most developers only allow one snag list and discourage additions later. This is why it’s crucial to hire a snagging inspector to get the most detailed report first time. Serious structural faults, however, are usually covered by your 10-year new build warranty and can still be addressed.

Yes. You can book a snagging survey at any point within the first two years of ownership. That said, earlier is better. A professional new build snagging survey in the UK helps establish which issues were caused during construction versus after move-in, protecting your position in disputes with developers.

A DIY snag list might include:

• Damaged skirting boards, windows or doors
• Poor grouting or plastering
• Incomplete or bubbling flooring
• Uneven driveways or missing topcoat on paint
  But a qualified snagging inspector knows what to check behind walls, under floors, and in hidden corners…things most homeowners miss.

Absolutely. When you hire a snagging inspector from Snagbusterz, you get more than a checklist. You get expert eyes trained to identify even the smallest of defects. Our reports help developers fix problems early, saving you thousands down the line. Read our Customer Reviews to see how we’ve helped other UK homeowners.

A snag list is the report created during your snagging inspection. It outlines all identified defects, cosmetic and structural, so the builder can take corrective action. Our reports are easy to follow, fully photographic, and designed to support your claim for rectification under warranty.

Developers are responsible for fixing the snags. However, if no report is filed, or defects go unreported, the cost can fall to the homeowner. That’s why getting a professional snagging inspection in the UK is a wise move. A well-documented report helps ensure developers fix issues at no cost to you.

You typically have two years after legal completion to submit a snag list under your developer warranty. That said, a snagging survey before moving in will eliminate confusion over whether the damage occurred during construction or after occupancy. Developers usually accept one list only, so accuracy is key.

Yes, undoubtedly. The average new build in the UK has over 100 snags, and most buyers aren’t trained to spot them. A professional new build snagging survey helps ensure you get the quality you paid for. Considering the cost of repairs later, the investment in a survey is more than worth it.

Book your inspection as soon as access is granted. If your developer is NHQB-registered, pre-completion inspections are possible. If not, book immediately after completion. Don’t worry. You can still book up to two years post-completion, but the earlier, the better.

Yes, but only under specific conditions. If your developer is not NHQB-registered and you haven’t completed purchase, they can restrict access. If they are NHQB-registered, they must allow inspection. In difficult cases, your solicitor can help arrange legal access.

This varies by home and builder. A typical four-bedroom house will yield around 150 snags. We’ve seen properties with as few as 50 or as many as 400+. Using an independent snagging company ensures nothing is missed.

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