A snagging survey is an inspection of your new home, identifying issues that need to be addressed before you move in. It is advisable to have one before your completion date, as it will give the housebuilder an opportunity to fix any problems identified before you move in. In the event that this is not possible, a survey can still be completed within the first two years of your warranty period.
If you try to conduct a snagging survey yourself, it is likely that you will miss a large number of issues, as it can be difficult to spot issues when viewing the property for the first time. Professional snagging surveyors are experienced in conducting these inspections is a snagging survey worth it and can spot many defects that are not immediately obvious to the naked eye.
In the event that you do choose to hire a snagging surveyor, it is important to ensure that they are independent and unbiased. This can be achieved by checking that they don’t have any links to housebuilders, or are employed by a construction company, as this could influence their work. You can also find out more about their background and experience, including previous clients, by looking for online reviews and testimonials.
Once you have found a snagging surveyor that is suitable, they will be able to carry out the inspection of your property and prepare a detailed report for you. This can include any identified issues or concerns, along with photographic evidence where necessary. In some cases, a snagging survey may highlight serious problems that need to be addressed, such as structural damage or damp.
It is a good idea to get your snagging survey completed as soon as possible, ideally before you exchange contracts with the housebuilder. This will give the housebuilder an opportunity to correct any issues before you move in, and it can help avoid any arguments post-completion. However, if this is not possible for whatever reason, a snagging survey can be completed at any point during the first two years of your house warranty period.
Snagging surveys are an essential part of the purchase process for a new build property. They identify a wide range of issues, from minor cosmetic flaws to major problems with the structure of the building. These can often be missed when viewing the property yourself, as you are likely to focus on superficial problems rather than the bigger picture. If you do not get a snagging survey, it is likely that you will be left with numerous issues after moving in, which can cost significantly to resolve.
While it is possible to carry out a snagging survey yourself, a professional will be much more effective in holding the housebuilder to account for addressing all issues identified. This will save you money, provide peace of mind and help you get the most from your new home. It is therefore well worth the investment to hire a qualified snagging surveyor to complete your inspection.