Snagging Survey: Everything You Need to Know

If you are in the process of buying a new house, you’ve probably heard that you have to get a snagging survey. While it is not a legal requirement in Ireland for buyers to commission their own inspection, it is highly recommended that they get one.

It is now best practice in the country and other parts of the world to hire an independent contractor to do a snagging inspection. Doing this may seem unnecessary since developers or builders supposedly inspect the property before turning it over to their buyers. But if you truly want to get the house that you paid for, this step is definitely not something you should skip.

What Is a Snagging Survey?

“Snag” pertains to minor or small defects on the property such as scratches on the windows or scuffed paintwork.

Basically, a snagging survey is a visual inspection done to check the quality of the new-build property. However, this definition can be deceiving as the survey does not just involve looking at the different house parts. A thorough inspection would entail touching surfaces and manipulating certain things to find if they are working.

For example, a professional snagger will open and close windows and doors to find out if they work properly. Similarly, he will turn on appliances to check if they are in good working condition.

While a snag refers to little imperfections or defects, what snagging specialists find are not just cosmetic issues. They also uncover functional problems like faucets that are not working. Sometimes, they come across structural problems like a leaning wall or uneven floors which can make your house unsafe.

What Is the Purpose of a Snagging Survey?

This type of inspection is done to help new build buyers like you ensure that you are getting a house that is built to the highest standards – one that meets the quality you have paid for.

But why is it necessary to do this? Aren’t new build homes supposed to be defect-free?

Ideally, they should have excellent build quality. But this is no longer the reality that many home buyers in Ireland face today. The workmanship in many new-build properties significantly declined over the years. Some were even poorly built that the safety of the inhabitants was threatened.

To protect yourself from getting a substandard home, you need to hire a snagging specialist even if you are working with a trusted developer or builder. Reputable snaggers like New Home Surveys still uncover at least 30 imperfections or snags on properties by competent builders.

You can use the snagging list we give you to negotiate with your contractor on what repairs and outstanding works should be done. It serves as a tool in ensuring that you spend your first few days or months in your new home enjoying everything instead of worrying about spotting defects or fixing them.

When to Get a Snagging Survey in Ireland

The best time to order a snagging report is right before the property is completed and before you exchanged signed contracts. It is easier to get your developer or builder to fix the snags at this stage. Since the deal only gets finalised after the repairs are done, you can count on them to accomplish them quicker. Plus, fixing issues when the house is still empty is also easier.

But not all builders allow inspections before the completion of the project. Refusing access to the property is well within their rights as they are still its owners. In these cases, the snagging survey can be conducted after the project is completed.

Can You DIY the Snagging Survey?

Yes, you can opt to inspect the property yourself. However, this may not be a smart decision, especially if you have no experience in snagging homes.

A thorough inspection of a new build property entails more than just downloading a sample snagging checklist online. Spotting imperfections, especially the most difficult ones to find, requires a trained eye. To have this, you need in-depth knowledge on how to build a house the right way and extensive snagging experience.

Suffice to say, while you can DIY the inspection, it is highly possible that you’d miss several things because of your limited knowledge and experience. So, you may be able to save on money but may end up spending more if you fail to spot critical problems.

Why Let Professionals Do the Snagging Survey?

Snagging specialists are going to spot more imperfections or issues than amateurs or DIYers would. Aside from their knowledge, experience and trained eye, they also have tools essential in conducting a thorough survey.

Furthermore, you can count on professionals to complete the inspection fast and give you the snagging list immediately. Reputable snaggers endeavour to complete the report in a day or two as they recognise that it has an impact on your move-in date.

Despite finishing the survey and report quickly, the quality of their work remains excellent. The inspection is going to be comprehensive. The snagging list is going to be accurate and detailed.

In addition, some snagging specialists can even liaise with your developer or builder on your behalf. This can work to your advantage as they know how to get the other party to agree to fix the issues.

In summary, a new-build home without aesthetic, functional or structural snags is a rarity these days. To protect yourself and your investment, enlist the services of a trusted snagger to inspect the property before you close the deal.

Looking for a qualified professional to do a snagging survey in Dublin, Kildare or Wicklow? We have a team of qualified snaggers who are experienced in inspecting different types of residential properties. Call us today on 016874452 (9am to 5pm) or 0852563277 or email us at sales@newhomesurveys.ie to learn more about our services!