When you purchase a new build property, you expect everything to be perfect from the quality of construction to the finishing touches. However, many homeowners quickly discover that their brand-new homes often contain defects, commonly referred to as "snags." That’s where snagging surveyors come in. These professionals are trained to identify and report issues that developers may have missed, giving you the leverage needed to get them fixed ideally before you move in or before your warranty expires.
Snagging, we understand the importance of a defect-free home. With nearly 50 years of combined experience in the new build industry, our snagging surveyors have helped thousands of homeowners across the UK ensure their new homes meet the quality standards they deserve.
What Are Snagging Surveyors?
Snagging surveyors are specialists trained to inspect new build properties for defects. These defects can range from minor cosmetic issues like paint smudges or uneven tiling to more serious structural concerns, such as faulty plumbing, poor insulation, or electrical issues. A snagging surveyor’s job is to meticulously examine every part of your property and create a detailed report that you can then share with your developer for rectification.
Their role is particularly crucial because many issues in new builds can go unnoticed until they become major problems often after warranties or builder liability periods have expired.
Why Do You Need a Snagging Survey?
Buying a home is likely the most significant investment you’ll ever make. Ensuring your new build is up to standard isn’t just about peace of mind – it’s about protecting that investment. A snagging survey conducted by professional snagging surveyors gives you:
A comprehensive defect report – detailing both minor and major faults.
Leverage with your builder – to have the issues corrected within your warranty period.
Expert eyes – trained to catch what the untrained eye often misses.
Time and stress savings – by addressing problems early rather than later when repairs become more complex or costly.
At A1 Snagging, we follow the latest New Homes Quality Board (NHQB) guidelines, ensuring our inspections are aligned with industry standards. We are also accredited by the Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA), so you can trust that your snagging survey will be both professional and legitimate.
Why Choose A1 Snagging?
Our team of experienced snagging surveyors has deep knowledge of the construction process, building regulations, and the common pitfalls seen in new build properties. Over the years, we’ve inspected a wide range of homes from modest apartments to large family houses and have found that even the most reputable developers can miss crucial details.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Decades of Experience: With almost 50 years in the new build sector, our team understands construction from the ground up.
NHQB Compliance: We operate under strict guidelines set by the New Homes Quality Board, ensuring transparency, accountability, and professionalism.
RPSA Accreditation: This means we meet the high standards required to offer snagging surveys that are recognised by developers and legal professionals alike.
Nationwide Service: Whether you're in a major city or a rural development, our snagging surveyors are available across the UK.
Detailed Reports: Our surveys are presented in a clear, easy-to-understand format with photographs, notes, and recommendations for each defect found.
What Do Our Snagging Surveys Cover?
Our snagging surveyors conduct a top-to-bottom inspection of your home. Typical areas covered include:
External checks: Brickwork, guttering, roofing, windows, doors, driveways, and garages.
Internal checks: Walls, ceilings, floors, stairs, fixtures, and fittings.
Plumbing and electrics: Testing outlets, lights, heating systems, radiators, taps, and drainage.
Insulation and ventilation: Ensuring energy efficiency and comfort in your home.
Compliance checks: Verifying that the build adheres to building regulations and planning permissions.
We tailor our snagging surveys depending on the stage of your home’s build – whether it’s before legal completion, after moving in, or during your warranty period.
The Importance of Acting Early
Ideally, snagging surveys should be conducted before you move into your new build. This way, your developer has time to address the issues without causing disruption to your daily life. However, it’s never too late. Even if you've already moved in, you can and should commission a snagging survey during the warranty period offered by your developer (often 2 years or more).
The sooner defects are reported, the higher your chances of having them corrected at no cost to you.
Trust the Experts: Book Your Snagging Survey Today
At A1 Snagging, we believe every homeowner deserves a property that meets their expectations both structurally and aesthetically. Our snagging surveyors work on your behalf, ensuring no defect goes unnoticed and no concern goes unaddressed.
By choosing a professional snagging service like ours, you’re not only protecting your investment but also ensuring that your new home becomes the safe, comfortable, and beautiful space you envisioned.