Snagging Surveys for New Builds and Major Extensions
Done before you complete on a new build, or before final payment on an extension. Identifies workmanship issues while you still have leverage to get them fixed.
Why a Snagging Survey
A new build is supposed to be perfect. Most are not. Estate developers are under pressure to complete on the legal deadline, and items that should have been finished before you move in often are not. Some of these are cosmetic and obvious. Many are not.
A snagging survey is your one chance to get a comprehensive list of defects to the developer while they still have a commercial reason to fix them. After completion, that leverage drops away.
The same principle applies to major extensions. While the contractor is on site, snagging is straightforward. Once final payment has gone, it is not.
Example new build snag: improperly sealed window reveal causing a draught and a long-term damp risk.
What a Snagging Survey Covers
We carry out a non-invasive inspection against the relevant standards: Building Regulations, NHBC standards (or the relevant warranty provider's standards), and reasonable workmanship expectations for the property type.
We check:
Brickwork and external finishes
Roof, chimneys, gutters, and rainwater goods (a drone)
Windows, doors, and seals
Internal walls, ceilings, and floors for finish quality and squareness
Plasterwork and decoration
Joinery and trim
Kitchens and bathrooms: fittings, tiling, sealants
Loft inspection for insulation and finishing
Visible services (sockets, switches, radiators, taps, fan covers)
Drainage and external paving
The report lists every defect with a photograph and a clear description, in a format the developer can act on directly.
The Report
The snagging report is structured as a defect schedule. Each defect is numbered, photographed, located, and described. The developer or contractor can work through the list in order.
You can send the report directly to the developer or contractor as the basis for the remedial works. We are happy to discuss the findings with them if helpful.
Sample page from a recent Level 3 report on a Victorian terrace.
Who a Snagging Survey Is For
Anyone buying a new build, before legal completion
Anyone within the developer's defect liability period (usually two years from completion) who suspects items have been missed
Anyone whose extension or significant building work is near final payment stage
Anyone whose new build has just emerged from snagging by the developer and who wants an independent check
When to book
For a new build purchase, the ideal timing is in the week or two before legal completion. Some developers will not allow access before completion. In that case, snagging immediately after completion is the next best option. You then have the developer's defect period to push for the items to be fixed.
For an extension,
snagging is best carried out while the contractor is still on site, before final payment.
How it works
1
Send us the property and contractor details. Same-day quote.
2
We attend the property for the inspection.
Half a day on site for most new builds. Longer for larger properties.
3
We telephone you with a verbal summary.
4
Written defect schedule by email within five working days.
5
We are available to discuss the findings with you or your developer.
Areas we cover
We provide Party Wall services across Surrey and Berkshire, with regular instructions in Guildford, Woking, Reading, Godalming, Farnham, Camberley, Aldershot, Kingston upon Thames, and Twickenham. We also act on instructions in central and west London.
Godalming
Farnham
Woking
Reading
Camberley
Kingston upon Thames
Aldershot
Twickenham
London
Hampshire
Guildford
Common Questions
Will the developer let you in before completion?
Most will. We attend at a date and time agreed with you and the developer. If access is refused, we recommend snagging immediately after completion.
How many defects will you find?
Depends on the build quality. Even on a well-built new home, a snagging survey typically identifies several dozen items. Most are minor. Some are significant.
Will the developer fix everything?
The developer is contractually obliged to put right defects against the relevant standards within their defect liability period. Some are easier to get fixed than others. The report is the evidence base for the conversation.
Can you snag an extension?
Yes. The principle is the same.
Ready to Get Started?
Send us the property details. Same-day quote.
