What a snagging list is
A snag is any defect, fault or unfinished item in a new-build property that should be put right by the builder. A snagging list is simply the documented record of all those issues, which you present to the developer so they fix them under their obligations and your warranty, at no cost to you.
New homes are built quickly and to deadlines, and despite quality controls, faults are extremely common. Most are minor and cosmetic, but some are significant. The snagging process exists precisely because brand-new does not mean perfect, and developers expect to receive and address a list of snags.
The key is to be thorough and to act quickly. The sooner and more completely you document issues, the easier it is to get them resolved while the developer is still on site and your warranty protections are strongest.
Common new-build snags by area
Where defects most often turn up.
| Area | Typical snags |
|---|---|
| Walls & ceilings | Cracks, uneven plaster, paint splashes, poor finish |
| Doors & windows | Misaligned, sticking, draughty, scratched glass, faulty locks |
| Floors | Squeaks, uneven boards, gaps, damaged or lifting tiles |
| Plumbing & heating | Leaks, low pressure, radiators not heating, dripping seals |
| Electrics | Sockets not working, missing covers, mislabelled consumer unit |
| Exterior & roof | Missing tiles, poor pointing, blocked guttering, render defects |
A professional snagging survey typically uncovers dozens of issues even in a well-built home.
How to create and use a snagging list
1. Inspect thoroughly
Go room by room in good daylight, checking finishes, fittings, doors, windows, sockets and water pressure. Test everything.
2. Record every issue
Photograph each snag and write a clear description and location. Number them so they're easy to track.
3. Report in writing
Send the list to the developer in writing (email) so there's a dated record, and keep a copy for yourself.
4. Chase and confirm fixes
Follow up on timescales, inspect each repair, and escalate to your warranty provider if the developer doesn't resolve issues.
Tips for an effective snagging inspection
Get the best results by:
- Inspecting in daylight, when finish defects are easier to see.
- Bringing a torch, spirit level, marbles (to test floor levels) and a phone for photos.
- Testing every socket, tap, radiator, window and door, not just a sample.
- Considering a professional snagging survey for thoroughness, typically £300–£600.
- Reporting snags as early as possible, ideally before or just after completion.
- Keeping a dated written record of every report and the developer's response.
Use your warranty's first two years
New builds typically come with a 10-year structural warranty such as NHBC Buildmark. The first two years give the strongest cover, with the developer responsible for putting right most defects. Report snags promptly within this period, after two years, the warranty usually only covers major structural problems.
Professional snagging surveys and your rights
While you can carry out your own snagging inspection, a professional snagging surveyor brings expertise and an objective eye, often finding many more issues, including ones that matter for safety and long-term durability. For a typical fee of £300–£600, it can be money well spent on a major purchase, and a detailed professional report carries weight with the developer.
If a developer is slow to act or disputes issues, your protections include the build warranty (e.g. NHBC), the Consumer Code for Home Builders, and the New Homes Quality Code where the builder is registered. Keep everything in writing, be persistent, and escalate to the warranty provider or relevant code body if reasonable snags are not fixed within a reasonable time.