What is snagging on a new build property?

New build snagging, or a new build snagging list, is the process of inspecting your brand-new home to identify any defects or unfinished work that needs fixing. Unlike a property survey (which checks structural condition of existing homes), snagging focuses on build quality and cosmetic issues in new homes.

Most snags are cosmetic issues like paint splatters, scratched windows, or doors that don’t close properly. However, some can indicate serious problems – a small window gap might lead to expensive water damage later.

You could move into your new home without completing a snagging list, but the numbers point towards it being likely you’ll find issues later.

According to the Home Builders Federation's 2025 survey, 93.7% of new build buyers found problems after moving in, with 25% of those buyers reporting 15 or more separate issues.

The chances of you finding issues are high, catching them early in a snagging survey saves you both time and (potentially) money later.

While a paint touch-up costs next to nothing, an issue that leads to water or structure damage could cost thousands later.

Snagging gives you peace of mind - when you're spending hundreds of thousands on your new home, it should be perfect. You typically have a two-year warranty to report issues, but it's much easier to get things fixed before you've moved in.

Getting a professional to complete a snagging survey is going to give you the most insight into your property. Snagging surveys typically cost anywhere between £300 and £600 for an average-sized home, depending on the property size and location. They could cost more for larger properties or those needing a more detailed inspection.

Companies tend to offer different service levels – a basic snagging report may cost £300, while a comprehensive inspection with follow-up visits could be £500 - £800.

If you choose to do it yourself, the only costs are your time and perhaps a basic toolkit for checking things like door alignment and paint finish. However, most buyers find the professional fee worthwhile when weighed against the potential cost of missing serious defects.

In an ideal world, you’ll be able to complete your snagging before you complete your purchase (before moving in). This gives you maximum leverage and opportunity to get issues fixed before you move in.

However, many developers limit pre-completion access. In these cases, arrange your snagging inspection as soon as possible after moving in, ideally within the first couple of weeks.

A snagging inspection examines every part of your new home, both inside and outside. Inspectors check all rooms, looking at walls, floors, ceilings, windows, doors, and fixtures.

Inside, common snags include paint defects, scratched surfaces, poorly fitted kitchen units, wonky doors, faulty light switches, and plumbing issues like dripping taps or poor water pressure.

Outside, inspectors look for problems with brickwork, roof tiles, guttering, external doors and windows, garden boundaries, and driveways. They'll also check that external fixtures like lighting and gates work properly.

The inspection covers both cosmetic issues (like paint splatters or scuff marks) and functional problems (like doors that won't close or heating that doesn't work). Everything gets documented with photos and descriptions, creating a comprehensive list for your developer to work through.

Once you have your new build snagging list, you’ll need to pass it on to your developer or housebuilder. If you hire a professional to complete your snagging survey, most will do this for you.

Developers are legally required to fix defects that don’t meet building standards or the specifications outlined in your contract.

Most developers will provide you with a timeline for repairs, typically within 2-4 weeks for minor issues and longer for more complex problems. They should arrange to access your home and complete the work at no cost to you.

After the repairs are done, it's worth doing a follow-up check to ensure everything has been fixed properly and no new damage has been caused. Some snagging companies offer this as part of their service.