Snagging companies are a necessary part of the process of getting your new build home finished and ready to move in. However, you should find a company with a good reputation and a reasonable price. Using the internet is a great way to compare prices and read reviews of companies. This will help you find the best snagging company near me for your new build property.
A snagging survey is an inspection of a newly constructed property to identify any issues or problems that have not been fully completed by the developer. This can be anything from a small cosmetic issue like a scratch on the windowpane or paint splashes to more serious structural issues that should have been fixed by the builder but weren’t. Typically, snag surveys are done in the period between when the building work is finished and your legal completion date so that the developer can fix any issues before you move into your new home.
Generally, a snagging survey will only be carried out on your new-build home by an RICS-qualified snagging inspector. A snagging survey is normally included in the cost of the conveyancing fee so you should not have to pay for it separately. If you do, it is likely that the cost will be covered by your new-build warranty, which covers defects in the property for two years after purchase.
How much does a snagging survey cost?
Typically, a snagging survey will start at around PS250 for an apartment and can go up to PS400 depending on the size of the property and the number of problems found. Depending on your budget, you can choose between a light and more detailed inspection. You can also save money by booking a snagging survey together with another one, such as a pre-completion survey or a structural survey.
How soon should I get a snagging survey done?
Ideally, you should have your snagging survey done just before you exchange contracts with the developer. This will give the builder the chance to address any issues before you move in, and it will also mean that you’ll have a lot more leverage with them than if you wait until after you’ve moved in.
Some developers will not allow professional snaggers in before completion, but your conveyancer may be able to intervene and get access by invoking your legal interest in the property. If you’re unable to do this, we recommend booking the snagging survey as soon as possible after completion.
Once the snagging survey has been completed, it’s important to read it through carefully and check any images included. Then, send it to the developer and request that any issues identified in the report are addressed. It’s also worth noting that you can make a claim against the developer under your 10-year new-build warranty if you don’t feel the issues have been addressed properly.
Snagging is a vital part of the new-build process, and it’s worth spending the time to do a thorough job. By choosing a good snagging company, you can ensure that your new-build property is free from major faults.