I have been financially compensated for this post.
Buying a new build home is exciting, but that fresh paint and shiny finish can sometimes hide underlying issues. Many buyers assume a brand-new property is flawless, yet small defects known as snags are surprisingly common. These can range from minor cosmetic flaws to more serious structural oversights.
A snagging survey helps you spot and record these problems so that the developer can fix them before you’re left footing the bill. Keep reading to learn how this simple check can save you stress, time, and money.
Why New Builds Need a Second Look
You’d expect a new build to be pristine, but mass construction often leaves room for error. Builders work to tight deadlines, and not every finishing touch gets the attention it deserves.
If you’re in the process of buying, working with a team like SAM Conveyancing ensures you’re not working through this alone. They offer fixed-price surveys and conveyancing services that help catch these issues early, giving you peace of mind before you complete your purchase.
When a Snagging Survey Becomes Essential
If you’re buying your first home, managing a Help to Buy scheme, or simply don’t want unexpected repair costs, a snagging survey is a smart move. It’s particularly valuable when your developer offers a tight deadline to raise defects or if your mortgage provider requires quality assurances.
What the Survey Covers
A snagging survey checks all areas of the property walls, floors, ceilings, windows, doors, plumbing, electrics, and external features. The report outlines defects clearly, allowing you to submit a list to your developer for rectification. It’s important that this survey is done before you fully settle in, as it gives the builder fewer reasons to dispute the findings.
Cost vs Value: Is It Worth It?
While a snagging survey costs anywhere between £300 to £600, depending on property size, it’s often worth every penny. Catching issues early gives you leverage to request timely repairs, ensuring you’re not left with a repair bill months down the line. It also gives peace of mind knowing someone has looked over your investment with a professional eye.
Book Before You Complete
The best time to commission a snagging survey is before you exchange contracts, allowing the builder time to resolve issues without you needing to chase them post-move. Some buyers wait until after completion, which is still valid but timing affects how easily problems are addressed.
If you’re relying on warranties, a snagging report can also help support your case when reporting issues within the warranty period.
Wrapping Up
A new build doesn’t guarantee perfection. With construction faults affecting so many buyers each year, booking a snagging survey is a wise precaution. It puts you in control, strengthens your negotiating position, and ensures your new home is ready to live in without the nasty surprises.
Think of it as protecting your biggest investment. A little check today could save you a major headache tomorrow.