What is a snagging list?
One of the main points of attraction for buying a new build home is that you will be the first people living in it and it should therefore be in perfect condition. However, this is not always the case.
While the home will be new, there can always be small, sometimes cosmetic, defects or ‘snags’ that are caused by poor workmanship, equipment and materials. Think for example of scratches on the window frame or a missing hinge on a door. While these are only cosmetic, more serious defects, such as cracks in walls or ceilings and fixtures that are not fitted properly, can also occur.
While your new home should have passed building regulations inspections and come with a structural warranty from an approved insurance policy provider, checking and fixing smaller defects is your house builder’s responsibility. These need to be sorted out before the completion date, but there is a large chance that they won’t find all the defects/snags. It is therefore a good idea to itemise and report any defects that you spot in your home. This itemisation is also known as a ‘snagging list’ and a building surveyor can offer a professional survey called a ‘snagging or defects’ report.
When should you make a snagging list?
The best time to create a snagging list is before exchanging contracts and again after the snagging works are completed prior to completion. However, this might not be possible as the housebuilders still owns the property at this point and could refuse access. However, this can be solved by employing a professional surveyor who has the authority to access the property via the estate agent to do this on your behalf.
Rather than carrying out post completion snagging once you move in and having to have that direct contact with the builder, create a list before you move in, if only for the obvious reason that your furniture won’t be in the way and contractors won’t have to work around you when fixing the defects will make life in your new home far easier.
How to create your own snagging list?
If you want to create your own snagging list, make sure to look for surface defects on woodwork, paintwork, glazing and tiling. Sticky notes might come in handy here, as you can put them next to the defects without further marking the surfaces.
If you run your hands over the surfaces you are often able to detect chipping and scratched that you might not immediately notice. Also make sure to look for splashes of paint and cracks on the walls and ceilings. Using a spirit level might be a good idea as you will need to check whether surfaces are level.
Also check the fittings by making sure everything is fitted property and check the taps to see if they leak and if the hot water is working properly.
Hiring a professional snagging company
A professional surveyor will likely find more defects than a homeowner. They can also liaise with the estate agent and housebuilder on your behalf to get the defects fixed. Usually, once the snagging works reported are rectified, the surveyor will re-visit the property prior to completion to re-assess and quality check. This also means that you don’t have to get involved yourself, which saves you a lot of time and stress!
IF YOU REQUIRE A SNAGGING OR DEFECTS REPORT DONE ON YOUR BRAND NEW HOME CONTACT MARWOOD SURVEYORS ON 0121 321 6058 OR USE OUR CONTACT FORM
OUR TEAM OF EXPERIENCED AND QUALIFIED RICS SURVEYORS WILL BE WITH YOU EVERY STEP OF THE WAY
Source: HomeOwners Alliance – Do I Need A Snagging List?
