Snagging surveys
Independent snagging surveys, explained
A snagging survey is an independent inspection of a newly built or recently completed home, carried out to identify defects, poor workmanship and unfinished items so they can be raised with your developer.
Why it matters
A new home is not always a finished home
New-build properties are completed to deadlines, by many different trades. Defects and unfinished items are common, and they are much easier to resolve when they are documented clearly and early.
SnagMate is instructed by you, not by the developer. Workmanship is assessed with reference to NHBC Standards, drawing on 10 years’ experience surveying new-build properties. SnagMate is independent and is not affiliated with, employed by, or endorsed by NHBC.
New-build buyers
Buyers taking handover of a newly built home who want an independent record of defects.
Recently completed properties
Owners of recently completed homes who want issues documented while they are still fresh.
Buyers acting at a distance
Purchasers who cannot inspect thoroughly themselves, or who want a specialist second view.
Timing
Pre-completion or post-completion
Both options are equally valid and cost exactly the same.
Pre-completion inspection
If your developer permits access before completion, a pre-completion inspection can identify defects before you take possession of the property.
Same price either way
Post-completion inspection
If access is not available before completion, the property can be inspected after you receive the keys.
Same price either way
Not sure which option is right for you? Contact SnagMate and we can discuss the timing of your inspection.
What you receive
A clear, photographic snagging report
Report issued within 2 business days.
The report
Preview a sample snagging report
Clients receive a professional snagging report with clear defect descriptions, photographic evidence and organised findings, written so the items can be raised directly with the developer.
Report issued within 2 business days.
Sample report available on request.
What the report contains
- Clear, plain-English defect descriptions
- Photographic evidence for each item
- Findings organised by area of the property
- Information suitable for raising items with your developer
Support Beyond the Report
Your support doesn't end when the snagging report is delivered. SnagMate stays available while remedial works are being carried out, helping you understand the developer's response and what happens next.
If the developer pushes back on an item, we can help you prepare a clear, evidence-based response based on the inspection findings and relevant standards. We'll guide you through the remedial process so you're not left dealing with it alone.
A follow-up inspection can be arranged after remedial works are completed to review previously identified items.
Practical guidance, not legal representation or guaranteed dispute resolution.
How it works
The survey process
Availability is always confirmed manually before an inspection date is agreed.
- 01
Request a quote
Send the property details, postcode and your timescales using the quote form, by email or by phone.
- 02
Availability confirmed
Availability is checked manually and we come back to you to confirm a suitable inspection date.
- 03
Property inspection
A methodical inspection of the property, recording defects, poor workmanship and incomplete items.
- 04
Report issued within 2 business days
A clear photographic snagging report setting out each item and where it was found.
- 05
Raise items with your developer
The report is organised so the findings can be passed straight to your developer.
A re-inspection can be arranged after remedial works for £300.
Common defects
Typical findings
Poor finishes
Sealant defects
Alignment issues
Cosmetic damage
Joinery defects
External defects
Incomplete works
Installation issues
Image to follow. This slot is reserved for a photograph from a SnagMate inspection.
Illustrative placeholder images showing common categories of new-build defect. These are not photographs from SnagMate inspections and will be replaced with real survey photography.
Typical areas reviewed. Inspections are visual and non-intrusive. Scope depends on safe access, site conditions and what is present at the property on the day.
Pricing
Pricing overview
The same price whether the inspection is carried out pre-completion or post-completion.
- Tell us about the propertyTell us about the property
- Your quoteYour quote
Tell us about the property
Three quick details give you an estimated price for your snagging survey.
Choose all three options and your price appears here instantly.
Genuine quote price match
Received a genuine written quote for a comparable snagging survey? Send it to us and we will do our best to match it.
Price matching applies to genuine written quotes for a comparable professional snagging inspection of the same property. The inspection scope and service must be broadly equivalent. SnagMate reserves the right to decline a price match where the services are not comparable.
Next step
Get a quote for your snagging survey
Send us the property postcode and your timescales. We will confirm availability and come back to you with a quote.
Preferred dates are subject to availability. We will contact you to confirm your inspection.