A snagging inspection is the process of identifying defects in a new build property, usually prior to handover. It is a crucial stage in the building process as it can ensure that the finished property is of a high quality and that all outstanding work is completed before a homeowner moves in. It can also identify any work which breaches building regulations and other laws. It is therefore essential to hire a professional, experienced snagging inspector.
The snagging survey is typically carried out by a professional qualified inspector who will examine every aspect of the new build property, paying particular attention to the finishes. They will create a detailed list of all issues, recording the location and description of each issue. They may also take photos or videos to provide evidence of the problems. This will help to highlight the issues to housebuilders so that they can be addressed as quickly as possible.
This process is often overlooked by home buyers, however a snagging inspection can be incredibly beneficial. It can make sure that you get the property that you paid for – one that meets the design and specifications that were agreed between the buyer and housebuilder.
It can also help to safeguard against expensive repair bills later down the line. Many of the issues found in new builds can be costly to repair if they are not dealt with as soon as they are identified. By arranging a snagging inspection, you can make sure that the problems are taken care of before you move in, saving you money in the long run.
Snagging inspections are not only beneficial for home buyers, but they can be useful for investors too. If you are buying a buy-to-let property then a snagging inspection can be extremely beneficial, as it will help to protect your investment by making sure that the property is of a good standard and free from any defects or issues.
When Should I Have A Snagging Inspection?
The best time to carry out a snagging inspection is just before the property is due for legal completion and before you exchange contracts with the housebuilder. This will allow the issues to be dealt with before you move in and avoid any potential problems or disputes. However, it is important to remember that snagging inspections are also an excellent way to keep on top of the progress of your property during the construction phase. This can be particularly helpful if your building company is slow to complete works or has fallen behind schedule.
A snagging inspection will not only look for surface defects such as chips in woodwork, paint and glazing, but it will also check to see that all electrics and plumbing are connected properly and working correctly, that windows and doors open and close easily and are sealed effectively. It will also look at the external finish of the property, checking brickwork, groundworks, garages, driveways and gardens.
When choosing a snagging inspection company to hire, it is worth looking at their customer reviews and testimonials, social media, prices, case studies, years of experience, knowledge in the building trade and specialist equipment. It is also worth requesting to view examples of their snagging surveys and reports.