A professional snagging survey is an in-depth inspection of your new home. It is designed to highlight any defects in the property that require attention after completion. It is often performed before you exchange contracts with the developer to give you peace of mind and protect you against any unexpected problems once you move in. Snagging surveys are typically more affordable than a full building survey and will save you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs in the future.
When choosing a company to perform your survey, look for an independent and unbiased service that doesn’t have any connections with the housebuilder. This means they should be free from any conflicts of interest and have a solid track record of working with homeowners like you. It is also important to choose a company that has experience in the field and can demonstrate their expertise with case studies or testimonials from previous clients.
A good snagging company will make you feel at ease from the start of your relationship. They will explain how their process works and the type of snagging survey they will provide for you. They should also be willing to answer any questions you may have. If they are not, you should consider hiring a different snagging company.
You should get your snagging professional snagging survey done as soon as possible. This will ensure that any issues can be addressed by the builder in time for your moving date. You will also be able to use the snagging report as proof when discussing costs with your builder, and they will be more likely to rectify any problems that are brought to their attention.
Many developers will ask you to complete a snagging survey within the first seven days after the date of legal completion. While this is not ideal, it does give you a bit more leverage with the builders as they are still onsite and are more likely to fix construction issues before they leave the site. Alternatively, you can schedule a snagging survey at any point during your two-year warranty period.
Snagging lists typically include major and minor issues. The former includes anything that prevents the system from functioning properly, such as a lack of hot water or faulty door handles. The latter includes cosmetic defects, such as uneven paintwork and scratched surfaces.
Snagging surveys are more comprehensive than standard home buyer reports and will help you make a more informed decision about the quality of your new property. It’s important to hire a professional who has the right knowledge and experience to identify and document any problems with your new home. The cost of a snagging survey ranges from PS300 to PS600, with the homeowner footing the bill. However, you can try to pass this on to the builder by adding it to your purchase contract. Ideally, you should hire an experienced RICS surveyor to ensure that your snagging list is accurate and comprehensive.
