As a result of poor workmanship, new construction properties frequently have numerous defects, also known as snags. A snagging survey should be performed in your new build home to identify these faults that your home builder will need to correct. But when is the best time to conduct a snagging survey? This article will provide an answer to that question as well as professional advice on the snagging procedure.
Snagging Survey: Before or After the Completion of Sale?
The optimal time to have a snagging inspection performed on your property is after all construction work has been completed and the house is ready to move into, but before the legal completion of the transaction and before exchanging contracts with the building company for your new home.
This gives the new build property developer enough time to fix any issues identified on the snagging survey before you move into your new home. This also gives you much more leverage in resolving the issues because you can agree to complete the sale only after all faults have been corrected, ensuring that all problems are fixed before you move in and that you get the home you paid for and expected.
If you buy a property off-plan, you will do so before it is built and will exchange contracts before the house is finished. In this case, the ideal time to have your house inspected for flaws is when the builder gives notice of completion, which is usually two weeks before the legal completion. This will give the developer plenty of time to work out the snags.
What to do if You are Refused Access to the Property?
However, some property developers may refuse to allow you access to the property and will not allow you to conduct snagging inspections before completion. They can do so because they still legally own the land. If that’s the case, your mortgage provider may be able to get involved with the developer and request access on your behalf by citing your legal interest in the house.
De-snagging
After the developer has corrected the flaws found during the first inspection, you should have a de-snagging inspection performed. This second inspection will ensure that the property developer has corrected all problems identified in the initial report to the appropriate standards. This will make sure that you get the home you paid for – a brand new home free of flaws.
About Home Snagging UK
Our Home Snagging UK experts have a keen eye and pay attention to the smallest details, so they frequently spot snags that your property developer may have overlooked. Because of our defect prevention training and consistent finish guidelines, our snagging inspection service ensures that your new home is built as promised. We are a snagging company you can rely on, with over 20 years of experience. Fill out our online enquiry form or call us at 01302 961111 to speak with one of our experts today.
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