Building a Home in Ireland? Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Skip a Snagging Survey

Are you in the process of building or buying a new home in Ireland? Congratulations! It’s an exciting time, but don’t let your enthusiasm cause you to overlook an essential step in the process: a snagging survey.

When purchasing a newly built house, it’s essential to ensure that it’s free from defects and that the construction work has been completed to a high standard. This is where a snagging inspection comes in. In this blog post, we’ll explain what a snagging survey is, why it’s essential to order a snag list and the risks of skipping one.

What Is a Snagging Survey?

A snagging survey is a comprehensive inspection of a new build property typically conducted before the final handover to the homeowner. The inspection’s primary goal is to identify any defects, unfinished work or areas that may require further attention before the property is deemed complete and ready for occupancy.

Common defects that can be identified by a snagging survey include:

• Poorly finished walls, ceilings, and floors
• Issues with the installation of fixtures and fittings, such as door handles, light switches, and radiators
• Leaking pipes or taps
• Inadequate insulation
• Structural issues such as cracks in walls or subsidence

During the survey, a qualified snagging surveyor will thoroughly examine the property, typically room by room, checking all aspects of the building work, including fixtures, fittings, and finishes. They will also inspect the exterior of the property, including the roof, walls, and windows, to ensure that all elements are up to standard.

Any defects or issues found during the survey will be recorded in a report, popularly called a snag list. This will include detailed descriptions, photographs, and recommendations on how to rectify the issues. The list is then typically provided to the homeowner, who can then use it to request the necessary repairs from the builder or developer before accepting the final handover.

The Risks of Skipping a Snagging Survey

Not getting a snagging survey can be a costly mistake that can result in a range of issues for new homeowners like you. Skipping this crucial step can turn your first weeks or months in your new home from happy and enjoyable to stressful and frustrating.

Here are some of the consequences of not getting a professional snagging list:

Undetected Defects

Even the most experienced builders and contractors can make mistakes. Moreover, it’s not uncommon for new build properties to have defects that are not immediately visible to the untrained eye. These snags can range from cosmetic damages, such as a scratch on a surface, to structural damages, like issues with electrical or plumbing systems. Skipping a snagging survey can result in defects going unnoticed, leading to expensive repairs and an inconvenient stay in your home.

Costly Repairs

The cost of rectifying defects found after the final handover can be significantly higher than if they were identified during the snagging inspection. For instance, a minor issue like a loose tile or a broken light fixture can quickly escalate into a major problem if left unaddressed, requiring extensive repairs or even a full replacement.

These repairs can be expensive and time-consuming. They may even require you to vacate the property for an extended period.

Difficulty in Resolving Issues

It can be difficult to get builders or developers to address snags discovered after the final handover. This is one of the unfortunate realities faced by many new home buyers in Ireland. Some had to wait years for their developers to fix the issue. Others were forced to rectify the defects themselves.

Not getting a snagging survey before moving in can also result in disputes between you and the builder or developer about who is responsible for fixing the issues and how they should be addressed. Sometimes, it may even require legal action to resolve the problems, which can be time-consuming and expensive.

Impact on Property Value

Not getting a snagging inspection can also have an impact on the value of your property. Any snags that go unnoticed can reduce the value of your house, making it harder to sell or rent out in the future.

Simply put, the risks of not getting a snag list before closing the deal far outweigh the potential cost savings. By investing in a professional snagging inspection, you can identify any defects or issues before the final handover and ensure that they are addressed promptly and correctly, giving you peace of mind and protecting your investment in the long run.

How to Get a Snagging Inspection in Ireland

Snagging surveys should always be conducted by a qualified and experienced snagging surveyor – one with the necessary expertise to identify any defects or issues in the property. These professionals typically have a background in construction or a related field and have undergone specific training to conduct snagging inspections.

There are several ways to find a qualified snagging specialist. One option is to hire a trusted new home snagging company, which typically employs a team of experienced surveyors trained in creating snag lists. These companies may offer various levels of snagging service, ranging from a basic visual inspection to a more detailed survey involving specialised equipment.

Here are some tips on how to find a reliable snagging company in Ireland:

Research Online

Searching online is one of the quickest ways to find a new home snagger. This method provides a list of reputable snagging survey companies in your area – be it in Meath, Dublin, Kildare or Waterford. Look for companies with positive reviews and ratings from previous clients.

Ask for Referrals

Ask your friends, family, or colleagues who have recently bought or built a new property if they have used a snagging company before and if they can recommend one.

Compare Prices and Services

Once you have a list of potential snagging companies, compare their prices and services to find the best fit for your needs and budget.

Check for Insurance

Ensure that the snag list provider has professional indemnity insurance to protect you in case of any errors or omissions in their report.

Remember, choosing a reliable snagging company is crucial to ensure that your new build property is inspected thoroughly and accurately. By following these tips, you can find a reputable snagging company that meets your needs and budget.

What Is Included in a Snag List?

Also called a snagging report, a snag list is a comprehensive list of defects and issues that are identified during a snagging survey. The list will include a detailed description of each snag found and photographs to illustrate the problem. The list should be easy to read and understand, with each defect listed separately and numbered for easy reference.

In addition to a clear description of each issue, the snag list should also include recommendations on rectifying each problem. This may involve making repairs or replacements or simply requiring adjustments or minor fixes.

The report should also indicate the urgency of each defect, with some items requiring immediate attention while others can be addressed later. This information is important for homeowners as it allows them to prioritise which issues to address first and which can wait.

Ultimately, a good snag list should provide you with a clear and concise overview of any defects or issues that must be addressed before the final handover.

Investing in a new home is a big decision. So, ensuring that the property is of the highest quality and meets all agreed specifications is crucial. Skipping a snagging survey may seem like a tempting cost-cutting measure, but it’s a decision that could ultimately cost you more in the long run.

By getting a snagging list, you can have peace of mind knowing that any defects or issues are identified and addressed promptly, safeguarding your investment and future resale value. Don’t take any chances with one of the most significant purchases of your life – get a snagging survey and enjoy your new home with complete confidence.

Are you buying a newly built house in Dublin, Cork, Wicklow or Kildare? Get a comprehensive yet affordable snag list at New Home Surveys, Ireland’s most trusted snagging survey provider! Call us today on 085 256 3277 or click here for a free quotation.  

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