When you buy a new build home, you expect everything to be in perfect condition. However, it’s not uncommon to find minor (or sometimes major) issues that the developer needs to address. For this reason, we always recommend booking a professional snagging survey.
As a team of experts working with homeowners in Dublin and the surrounding areas, at Snag List Surveys we help clients identify problems and get them fixed before they escalate. If you’re in the process of purchasing or moving into a new home, here are some of the most frequent snagging issues we encounter and what you should do about them.
What is a Snag List Survey?
A snagging survey is a detailed inspection of a new build property to identify any defects or unfinished work. Even though the home is brand new, construction teams can sometimes overlook details or rush certain tasks. As a trusted snag list company, our role is to find these issues and provide a comprehensive snagging report to share with your developer. Ultimately, this survey is a safety net, helping you catch problems early and avoid future repair costs.
Common Snagging Problems Found in New Build Homes
When moving into a new home, the last thing you want to deal with is problems that shouldn’t be there. A snagging company will identify issues that should be addressed by your building, ensuring your home is perfect before you settle in. From minor cosmetic issues to more significant structural defects, the following list covers some of the most frequent snagging problems we encounter in newly built homes.
Cosmetic Imperfections
- Paintwork and Finishes – One of the most common issues we find is problems with paintwork and finishes. Whether it’s visible brushstrokes and patches on the walls or wonky tiles and bubbling wallpaper, these issues can affect the overall look of your home and the longevity of the finishes.
- Plastering and Skim Coat Defects – Sometimes, uneven plastering or rough skim coats can leave walls looking bumpy or cracked, even before decoration. These imperfections don’t meet the highest standards expected from a new build.
- Skirting Boards and Trims – Loose, misaligned, or unfinished skirting boards and trims are also common snagging issues. Gaps between trims or poorly fitted boards can collect dust and affect the overall look of your home.
Structural Concerns
- Cracks in Walls and Ceilings – Cracks in the walls and ceilings can appear, especially as the property settles into its foundations. While cosmetic cracks aren’t always cause for concern, larger gaps could be a sign of structural issues that need to be addressed.
- Exterior Defects – Problems with the exterior brickwork or window and door frames can be overlooked during construction. While they might seem minor at first, they can lead to water damage, mould, damp spots and even structural weakening over time.
- Roof and Drainage Issues – Loose or cracked roof tiles, along with poorly installed or blocked gutters, can lead to water ingress or leaks. These issues are often hidden but could cause serious problems if left unchecked.
Installation Flaws
- Poorly Fitted Windows and Doors – Windows and doors that don’t open or close properly, or draughts around poorly fitted frames, are common in new builds. These issues can affect energy efficiency and security, so it’s important to identify them early.
- Plumbing Fixtures – Leaking taps, slow-draining sinks, or poor water pressure are often overlooked during construction but can cause frustration. Even in a new build, it’s essential to check that plumbing fixtures are installed and functioning correctly.
- Electrical Problems – Electrical issues, such as faulty light fixtures or outlets that don’t work, are also common snagging problems. These problems not only affect the function of your home but can also become a safety concern.
Heating and Insulation Issue
- Heating Systems – In some new builds, the heating system might not work properly. You may notice uneven underfloor heating or radiators that don’t work properly, leading to an uncomfortable living environment.
- Insulation Issues – Improperly installed or compressed insulation can lead to cold spots and increased energy bills. It’s important to check the loft or wall cavities for insulation problems that can have long-term effects.
Overlooked Defects
- Flooring Problems – While most new-build flooring is installed to a high standard, issues such as creaky or uneven floorboards and improperly laid tiles are common. These may seem minor, but they can impact the overall experience of your new home.
- Fixtures and Fittings – Often overlooked, improperly fitted door handles, loose lighting fixtures, or poorly installed appliances can lead to a less-than-perfect finish. These issues might not affect the structure of the house, but they can make the space feel unfinished and leave you feeling disappointed with your new home.
- Ventilation Problems – Proper ventilation is essential in any home. Issues such as missing or improperly installed trickle vents or poorly connected roof ducts can lead to condensation or damp problems, especially in more airtight modern homes.
By arranging a snagging inspection, you can rest assured that these common problems will be identified and fixed before you move in.
What Happens After the Snags are Identified?
Once we’ve completed the snag list survey, we create a comprehensive yet easy-to-understand report for you, complete with clear photographs of every snag identified. By sharing this report with your builder or developer, you can ensure they’re fully aware of the problems identified and can ensure they’re properly fixed.
We continue to provide support and advice as the builder addresses the snags, and we’re happy to answer any questions you might have. Once the work is complete, we recommend a second inspection to ensure all defects on the snag list have been properly fixed. This final check will give you peace of mind that everything is as it should be.
Why New Home Snagging is Essential
All in all, it’s easy to assume that everything will be perfect in a newly built home, but as you can see, there are several common snagging problems that homeowners face. So, a professional snag list survey is a key step in the home-buying process, ensuring these issues are identified and fixed before you move in.
At Snag List Surveys, we pride ourselves on being a trusted snag list company. Our thorough surveys help homeowners avoid unexpected repairs and ensure their new home is perfect. If you’re about to move into a new build, don’t skip a snagging survey; it really is the best way to both protect your investment and get peace of mind.
To book a snag list survey, get in touch with our team today. We’d be happy to help.
