Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a snagging survey? A snagging survey is a detailed inspection of your new-build property to identify defects — known as "snags" — ranging from minor cosmetic issues like paint marks or scuffed skirting, to more significant problems like poorly fitted windows or plumbing defects. We provide you with a photographed, numbered report so you can get these fixed by your developer.

2. Do I legally need a snagging survey? No, a snagging survey isn't a legal requirement. However, the average new build in the UK has over 100 snags, and most buyers aren't trained to spot them all. A professional inspection helps ensure your developer fixes everything they should, before your warranty period runs out.

3. How many snags will you find? It varies by property, but industry-wide, even well-built homes from reputable developers typically have 30–50 snags, and some have well over 100. Finding a long list is normal — it doesn't mean your home was built badly, it reflects the sheer number of trades and tasks involved in construction.

4. Are you insured and accredited? Yes. We're RPSA (Residential Property Surveyors Association) accredited, and hold Public Liability and Professional Indemnity insurance for your peace of mind. Accreditation details are available on request.

5. What's included in my report? You'll receive a photographed, numbered defect list, checked against NHBC standards, within 24 hours of your inspection — giving you clear evidence to take back to your developer.

6. When should I book my inspection? We recommend booking as soon as possible after you've legally completed on your property — ideally the next day, before the property is full of boxes and furniture, which can make some defects harder to spot and access.

7. Do I need to be at the property for the inspection? Not necessarily. You're welcome to be there yourself, or we can collect the keys and carry out the inspection independently — whatever works best for your move.

8. How long does an inspection take? Our inspections typically take around 2 hours, depending on the size of the property.

9. What if my developer refuses to fix the snags on my report? In most cases, developers do act on a documented snag list — it's very much in their interest to. Every year, developers are scored through the Home Builders Federation (HBF) National New Homes Customer Satisfaction Survey, which produces their public star rating. A high volume of unresolved complaints and poor snag resolution directly damages that rating, which developers rely on for reputation, sales, and NHBC standing. If a developer is unresponsive or disputes items on your list, you can also escalate through your warranty provider (NHBC, LABC, or Premier Guarantee), who can intervene on your behalf.

10. How long do I have to report snags to my developer? You typically have up to 2 years from legal completion under your developer's warranty (NHBC or equivalent) to report defects. Structural issues are usually covered for longer — often up to 10 years — but it's always worth checking your specific warranty documentation.

11. What happens if I don't get my snags reported and fixed in time? Developers are responsible for fixing genuine defects reported within your warranty period. If issues go unreported, or you miss the window, responsibility can fall to you — and unreported defects, particularly bigger ones, can cost significantly more to fix out of pocket than the cost of a snagging survey itself.

12. Do you test the boiler, gas, or plumbing? No. We use a socket tester to check the basic function of electrical sockets, but we do not carry out gas, boiler, or plumbing testing, or further electrical testing. Any concerns in these areas should be raised with a qualified, registered tradesperson.

13. Do you use a thermal imaging camera? Yes, where appropriate. Thermal imaging is weather-dependent and may be less reliable in hot weather or where there isn't enough of a temperature difference to detect. If this affects your inspection, we'll note it in your report.

14. Will you remove bath panels, access panels, or kitchen plinths? No — we don't remove these fittings, to avoid causing any damage to your property. Any areas concealed behind them fall outside the scope of our inspection.

15. Do you inspect roofs or use drones? No. We don't climb onto roofs, use drones during inspections, or access any area our surveyor reasonably deems unsafe. Any such areas will be excluded and noted in our report.

16. Do you carry out repairs? No — we identify and report on snags, but we don't carry out any repairs or building work ourselves. Responsibility for arranging repairs lies with you and/or your developer.