Overview of the New-Build Market

The UK housing market has seen a significant increase in the construction of new-build homes over the past few years. This surge is largely driven by the government’s efforts to meet the high demand for housing, with initiatives aimed at boosting the supply of modern, energy-efficient homes. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), approximately 245,000 new homes were built between April 2019 and March 2020. This trend has continued despite the challenges posed by the global pandemic, with 49,470 homes being completed in just the first quarter of 2021​ 

New-build homes are particularly attractive to buyers due to their modern designs, energy efficiency, and the ability to customise certain aspects to fit personal preferences. However, despite their newness, these properties are not immune to defects, making thorough inspections crucial.

Importance of Thorough Inspections

While the idea of moving into a pristine, newly constructed home is appealing, it’s important to recognise that even new builds can have defects. Common issues include poorly fitted windows, doors that don’t close properly and even structural problems that may not be immediately visible. These defects can lead to significant inconveniences and additional costs if not identified and addressed early.

This is where snagging inspections come into play. A thorough inspection can identify potential issues before you complete the purchase, ensuring that the builder addresses these problems before they become your responsibility. Skipping this step can result in costly repairs and ongoing frustrations, which is why snagging is a critical part of the new-build buying process.

The Appeal of New-Build Homes

Modern Features and Energy Efficiency

One of the primary reasons buyers are drawn to new-build homes is the modern features they offer. Unlike older properties, new builds are designed with contemporary living in mind, incorporating the latest technology and design trends. This includes everything from open-plan living spaces to smart home systems that allow you to control heating, lighting, and security from your smartphone.

Energy efficiency is another significant benefit of new-build homes. These properties are built to the latest energy standards, which means they are better insulated and more efficient to heat and cool. Features such as double glazing, energy-efficient boilers, and high-quality insulation help to reduce energy bills and carbon footprints. In an era where energy costs are a concern for many homeowners, the efficiency of new-build homes makes them an attractive option.

Incentives for Buyers

The UK government has introduced several schemes to make buying a new-build home more accessible. These include the Help to Buy scheme, which offers an equity loan to help first-time buyers and existing homeowners purchase new-build properties with just a 5% deposit. Additionally, developers often offer incentives such as paying stamp duty, providing upgraded appliances, or offering furniture packages to entice buyers.

These incentives, combined with the modern features and energy efficiency of new-build homes, make them an appealing choice for many buyers. However, it’s essential to remain vigilant and ensure that the quality of the build matches the allure of these incentives.

Common Issues in New-Build Homes

Structural Issues

Despite the appeal of new-build homes, they can come with a range of structural issues that need addressing. Common problems include poorly fitted windows and doors, which can lead to draughts and increased energy costs. In some cases, the insulation might not be installed correctly, affecting the home’s overall thermal efficiency. Uneven flooring is another frequent issue, which can be both an aesthetic problem and a potential hazard​ 

Cosmetic Defects

Cosmetic issues are also prevalent in new-build homes. Fresh paint can often mask underlying problems such as poor plasterwork or minor cracks in the walls. Other cosmetic defects might include misaligned tiles in the kitchen or bathroom, or skirting boards that are not properly fixed. While these may seem minor, they can detract from the overall finish of the property and may require costly repairs if not addressed early​ 

Functional Problems

Functional issues can be particularly frustrating for new homeowners. Problems with plumbing, such as leaky pipes or improperly installed taps, are not uncommon in new buildings. Electrical issues, including sockets that don’t work or poorly fitted light switches, can also arise. Additionally, heating systems may not function as expected, leading to cold spots in the home or an inability to properly control the temperature​

The Importance of Snagging

What is Snagging?

Snagging refers to the process of thoroughly inspecting a new-build property to identify any defects or unfinished work that the builder needs to correct. This inspection typically covers a wide range of potential issues, from structural faults to cosmetic imperfections. The importance of snagging cannot be overstated, as it ensures that the property meets the required quality standards before you move in​ 

While new-build homes are expected to be in pristine condition, the reality is that many can have a variety of issues, ranging from minor cosmetic defects to significant structural problems. A snagging inspection helps to identify these issues early, allowing you to have them addressed by the builder before they become your responsibility​ 

When to Conduct a Snagging Inspection

The timing of a snagging inspection is crucial. Ideally, it should be conducted before you complete the purchase of the property. This allows any identified issues to be rectified by the builder before you take ownership. However, not all developers allow snagging inspections before completion. If this is the case, the inspection should be carried out as soon as possible after you move in​ 

It’s important to act quickly, as most builders offer a warranty period during which they are obligated to fix any defects. Conducting the inspection early ensures that any problems are identified and addressed while the builder is still responsible​ 

Commonly Missed Issues

Even if you have an eye for detail, some issues are easy to overlook during a snagging inspection, especially if you’re not a professional. Commonly missed problems include:

• Poor Insulation: Gaps or inconsistencies in insulation can lead to higher energy bills and discomfort in your home.
• Ventilation Issues: Improperly installed ducts or blocked vents can cause poor air circulation, which may lead to dampness and mould over time.
• Hidden Plumbing and Electrical Faults: These issues might not be apparent until after you’ve moved in, but they can cause significant disruption and cost if not caught early​ 

Hiring a professional snagging surveyor can help ensure that these and other potential issues are identified and corrected before they cause long-term problems.