A Guide to Snagging

Stephen Nancarrow, Inspector Home

Snagging is the process of checking a new home for defects in the finish and workmanship of the property.

In 2005, 93% of homeowners reported defects in their new home - the number of defects and the severity will always differ from one home to another, but as a homeowner you need to ensure that these defects are identified and then rectified as soon as possible.

To assist you, Inspector Home the UK's leading snagging company, have produced this guide to the most common defects in new homes:

When to snag? If possible carry out a thorough snagging inspection of your home before completion. This way your developer has the maximum amount of time to correct the defects before you move in. No-one wants workmen trampling muddy boots & splashing paint over their brand new carpets. You have a maximum of 2 years to report snagging defects, but be aware that the longer you live in a home the harder it is to prove that you did not cause the damage yourself. How to snag? If you do not know the current standards (which you probably don't) use common sense when deciding if something is a defect or not: if it looks wrong then it probably is. Spend roughly 20 minutes per room, running your fingers over everything to make sure it is smooth. Always snag in natural daylight and stand a reasonable distance away from the item you are checking. Useful Tools for Snagging. You will need: Tape measure: to check the rooms / windows / doors / brickwork Spirit level: to check the levels of the floors / ceilings / walls & everything else that should be level, really is level Socket tester: ensures the sockets are safe Torch: to check in the loft if there is no light Submitting your Snag List. Submitting your list is just part of the process - getting the work completed is another task altogether. Ensure all communication is in writing and keep a diary of all calls / letters & e-mails- you never know when you may need to refer to it. Ask your developer to prepare a schedule of works detailing when works will take place & what will be done. Liaising with your developer. Maintain positive yet persistent communication with your developer for the best effect. Try not to get in to an argument with them if possible as this won't help you and could delay your remedial works.

1. Glass. You must report glass scratches within 24 hours of completion or you will not be covered.
2. Paintwork. Make sure the paint is not too thin (grinning) and that every thing has been painted in full (check the insides of window frames.) Has the paint splashed anywhere?
3. Plaster. Are the walls & ceilings smooth and flat? Are the joints neat and even?
4. Carpentry. Is the woodwork finished properly? Are the locks & hinges fitted level? Check for gaps around doors & ensure the stairs & spindles are firm. Do the doors & windows open & close easily?
5. Brickwork. Are the gaps even & well spaced? Is the brickwork clean & uniform?
6. Tiling. Are any of the tiles proud (sticking out) & is the grouting & mastic sealant finished properly?
7. Plumbing & Electrics. Check all appliances are working correctly and that all guarantees & paperwork are in place. Check for leaks which can appear at any time.
8. Flooring. Are the floors level and finished correctly, especially around the edges?
9. Switches, Sockets & Radiators. Are they level, working & in the right place?
10. Fitted furniture (kitchens, wardrobes etc). Are the doors & drawers fitted correctly? Check the handles, hinges, any scratches or dents?

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