What Is Snagging and What Are Its Benefits

Does your new build home have any noticeable problems that haven’t been fixed yet? You’ll need to list these problems with your house builder. Here’s what you need to know.

If you see defects in your home, report them to the company that built it. You can write down the issues yourself or hire someone else to do it for you. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Snag? 

A snag is a small problem in a property that remains after it has been finished with building work. These problems might be cosmetic—a cracked window, for example—or more serious. For example, a major crack might run through the house, or the kitchen faucet could be installed improperly. Most are cosmetic and can be fairly easily fixed.

What Is a Snagging List? 

A snagging list is used to identify defects in your home for your house builder to fix. The housebuilder will take care of a list of potential defects if you find problems after you move in.

How Do I Make a Snagging List?

After your new home passes building regulations checks and comes with a structural warranty from an approved insurance provider, your house builder will check and fix any cosmetic issues before you complete the purchase.

Are There Things I Should Check for?

It is unlikely that your house builder will check these things, but you should make sure that things are in good working order.

Examine the woodwork, paint, glass, and tile. Touch the surfaces to check for chips and scratches. Look for splashes of paint on the walls and ceilings and cracks in the walls and ceilings. Use a spirit level to check whether the surfaces are level.

Check whether everything is secure using the correct screwing technique. For instance, turn the taps on to see if water leaks out or the hot water runs from the right faucet.

It’s a good idea to bring sticky notes to mark any defects you see on your home inspection, but you should use them to note the areas only, without marking the surfaces themselves. The new home warranty and insurance provider NHBC has a free inspection checklist on their website.

What Are the Benefits of Snagging Services?

Some house builders offer a snagging service to homeowners. This is an excellent service, especially if you don’t have the time or inclination to look for small defects.

Snagging services can also help you avoid needing to take your home builder to court. If you can prove that you asked your house builder to fix snags within the warranty period, it will increase the chances of getting your house builder to pay for the cost of repairs. Most housebuilders will fix small snags before the warrant expires, but you need evidence that you reported them.

Conclusion

A good builder will usually be willing to fix snags before the warranty runs out. If you find that your builder will not respond to your requests to fix snagging work, you must contact your home warranty provider or an approved NHBC warranty provider.

Dacha Real Estate is a property agency in Dubai, providing high-quality real estate for sale and lease and comprehensive property management services. Focused on world-class client services, we managed to retain success during the Dubai property crash and have grown to become a key player in the industry. If you’re looking to buy a property in Dubai, get in touch with us! We’re here to help.