What Is a Snagging List? New Build Buyers’ Essential Guide (2025)

What Is a Snagging List (UK Definition)?

A snagging list (or snag list) is a detailed room-by-room inventory of defects and imperfections found in a new‑build home. These can range from simple cosmetic issues—scratches misaligned tiles—to more serious faults like unfinished insulation or misconnected pipes.

While developers inspect homes many defects persist until deliberate snagging is carried out. A professional snagging survey ensures anything below expected quality gets flagged before you move in.

---

When Should You Get a Snagging Survey?

➤ Pre-Completion Inspection (PCI)

Ideally get a Pre-Completion Inspection just before exchange—right after the builder considers work complete. It uses the New Homes Quality Code checklist and allows corrections before you move in.

➤ After Move-In

If PCI isn’t possible aim to book a full snagging survey within the first two years . That’s when your builder’s warranty applies and corrections are still enforceable.

---

Why Every New-Build Buyer Needs a Professional Snagging Survey

• Hidden defects are common. On average new builds still have multiple snags—even though they’ve never had previous occupants.

• Builders expect a snag list. Many only engage once you’ve pointed out issues—even apparently minor ones.

• Stronger access to fixes. A documented professional report gives you leverage with the developer and strengthens your warranty claim.

---

What Does a Snagging Survey Look For?

A trained snagging surveyor inspects:

• Interior finishes: paint drips uneven plaster skirting gaps kitchen/cupboard misfits

• Doors/windows: alignment sealing gaps faulty locking

• Floors/stairs: uneven levels creaks loose flooring

• Plumbing: dripping taps blocked shower drains loose seals

• Electrics: faulty sockets lighting issues underfloor heating faults checked via thermal imaging.

• External and landscaping: loose roof tiles poor pointing garden fit external paintwork or drainage faults.

It produces a photographic schedule with descriptions and relevant NHBC or warranty standards .

---

Common Problems Found in New Builds

Despite being brand new many homes exhibit:

• Cracked or faulty brickwork or pointing

• Poor joinery misaligned doors or windows

• Damage to cabinets scratched surfaces

• Blocked drains incorrectly fitted pipes

• Drafty insulation or thermal bridging

• Loose tiles incorrectly installed fixtures

• Even missing components like bath plugs.

• Some customers report dozens or even hundreds of snags after move‑in.

Public platforms like TikTok now highlight shocking new-build flaws—missing drains misaligned fences and unfinished brickwork—even months after handover.

---

Investment Versus Cost: Is the Survey Worth It?

Parking the survey is a false economy—the cost is modest and you could save significantly in remediation and warranty deductions.

---

How to Use Your Snagging List Effectively

1. Book before exchange if permitted (PCI)

2. Otherwise schedule ASAP after move-in

3. Send the snag list to your developer in writing

4. Track all rectifications ideally via formal written confirmation

5. Save reports and correspondence for warranty claims up to 2 years

---

Summary: The Snagging Checklist at a Glance

• What it is: A list of faults and finishing defects in a new build

• When to do it: Pre-completion or within two years of completion

• Why do it: Independent report enforce builder fixes protect investment

• Who should do it: Ideally a RICS-qualified or independent surveyor

• Common issues: Cosmetic and functional snags ranging from paint to plumbing

Final Take: Make Snagging Work for You

Buying a new build doesn’t guarantee perfection. But a proactive snagging survey gives you the upper hand—documenting workmanship failures early enforcing repairs and ensuring your investment is protected for years to come.

Want help summarising your snagging survey or tracking developer responses?
WiseNest can help with AI-powered report analysis checklists and notifications before your warranty expires.

Create your free WiseNest account today