Does A New Build Need A Survey?

A new build survey can identify defects, poor workmanship and unfinished work before they become your problem. In many cases, having a snagging report before completion gives the developer the opportunity to put issues right before you move in.

At Jaggard Macland, our Chartered Surveyors have inspected new homes ranging from individual properties to substantial high-value houses from well-known developers, and our experience is that an independent inspection can be extremely worthwhile.

Why Have a New Build Survey?

New homes are often constructed to tight programmes, with multiple trades working on different parts of the building at the same time. Even reputable developers can miss things.

A professional snagging survey can pick up relatively minor problems, such as doors that don't close properly, poor finishes or defective fittings, as well as more significant issues involving the building fabric.

It gives the buyer an independent view of the property's condition rather than relying solely on the developer's own checks.

What Does a New Build Snagging Survey Check?

A new build snagging inspection looks at a wide range of elements, including:

• Roof coverings and other external building elements
• Brickwork and external finishes
• Windows and doors
• Internal finishes and fittings
• Kitchens and bathrooms
• Floors and walls
• Plumbing and visible services
• Drainage
• Signs of poor workmanship or unfinished work

Isn't a New Build Covered By a 10-year Warranty?

A warranty provides important protection, but it shouldn't necessarily be treated as a replacement for an independent survey.

A previous Jaggard Macland inspection of a circa £2 million new build property in South Bucks illustrates why.

The buyer had not commissioned a building survey or snagging survey, partly because they had confidence in the quality of the property and its warranty. After moving in, they asked us to investigate concerns about the building.

The inspection identified significant issues including problems with the pitched and flat roofs, fire doors, floor structures, drainage, acoustics and underfloor heating. Some of the issues were also outside the scope of the warranty. In other cases, the warranty provider's position was that action would not necessarily be taken until physical failure or disrepair occurred.

A survey before purchase would have given the buyer a much clearer picture of these issues before completing the transaction.

When Should You Have a Snagging Survey?

Ideally, a snagging survey should take place between completion of the building work and your legal completion date. This gives the developer time to investigate and rectify defects before you move in.

Some developers may not allow access for a snagging inspection before completion. If that happens, arrange the inspection as soon as possible after moving in.

A snagging survey can also be carried out during the early years of occupation, so it is still worth considering if you have already moved into your new home.

A New Build Snagging Survey in Gerrards Cross

We have seen first-hand how useful a snagging survey can be.

Jaggard Macland was appointed to inspect a seven-bedroom, 10,000 sq ft Arts and Crafts-style new build home in Gerrards Cross, Bucks.

The survey identified a range of faults and defects. These were reported to the developer, who returned to the property to complete the necessary works before the homeowner moved in.

The homeowner told us:

“The snagging survey helped us to appreciate the property's overall standard of finish whilst also allowing the minor faults found to be rectified prior to us moving in. It gave us great confidence that the house was perfectly ready when we moved in.”

What Does a Snagging Survey Give You?

The main benefit is a clear, independent record of issues requiring attention. Rather than discovering defects one at a time after moving in, you have a detailed report that can be given to the developer and used to help ensure the necessary works are completed.

As Phil Pearcey, Director and Building Surveyor at Jaggard Macland, says: “Despite the best efforts of your builder every property has minor or major issues, which is why we recommend a snagging report is undertaken prior to the purchase of every new home.”

For a significant investment such as a new home, a snagging survey can provide valuable reassurance and, potentially, prevent costly problems further down the line. We carry out new home snagging surveys across Buckinghamshire and the surrounding areas, including Gerrards Cross, Beaconsfield, Amersham, High Wycombe and Penn.

Contact: Phil Pearcey