New Build Snagging Survey

New Build Snagging Surveys in Surrey, Kent, Sussex and London

Purchasing a newly constructed property does not guarantee that the property is free from defects, incomplete works or workmanship issues. Even newly completed homes can contain cosmetic defects, finishing issues and installation concerns that may not be apparent during a standard viewing or developer demonstration. A professional New Build Snagging Survey helps identify these issues before or shortly after legal completion.

At Huxley Surveyors, we provide detailed New Build Snagging Surveys for newly built houses and apartments across Surrey, Kent, Sussex and London, helping purchasers identify Items for Attention before or shortly after legal completion.

What is a New Build Snagging Survey?

A New Build Snagging Survey is an independent pre-completion inspection of a newly constructed residential property carried out on behalf of the purchaser.

The inspection is specifically designed for Complete New Homes in connection with the pre-completion process under the New Homes Quality Code and is intended to identify Items for Attention relating to workmanship, finish, fit-out and visible construction quality.

The survey is carried out in accordance with:

• The NHQB Pre-Completion Inspection Checklist

• The New Homes Quality Code

• The RPSA New Build Inspection and Reporting Standards

The inspection is visual and non-invasive and is not a structural survey, Building Survey or Building Regulations compliance inspection.

Why are Snagging Surveys Important?

The New Homes Quality Code requires developers to provide homes that meet recognised standards and tolerances prior to legal completion. However, defects and incomplete works remain common within newly constructed properties.

An independent snagging survey helps purchasers identify issues requiring remedial works while developer obligations and warranty periods remain active.

Our inspections regularly identify:

• Poor workmanship and finishing defects

• Damaged or incomplete fittings

• Defective decorating and sealant finishes

• Cracking and shrinkage issues

• Poorly installed kitchens and bathrooms

• Misaligned joinery and doors

• Defective glazing or scratched surfaces

• Inadequate finishing details

• Roofing and rainwater installation concerns

• Drainage and external works issues

• Defects affecting thermal performance or ventilation

• General quality control concerns

Independent Pre-Completion Inspection Rights

Under Principle 7 of the New Homes Quality Code, purchasers have the right to appoint a suitably qualified independent inspector to carry out a pre-completion inspection before legal completion takes place.

The inspection is intended to provide purchasers with an independent professional assessment of the condition and finish of the property at the time of inspection and to assist developers in identifying and remedying Items for Attention.

The New Build Snagging Survey does not delay or prevent legal completion, and the surveyor’s role is to identify and record Items for Attention rather than enforce remediation works.

What Does the Inspection Include?

Our New Build Snagging Surveys typically include inspection of:

• Roof coverings and rainwater goods

• External brickwork, render and finishes

• Windows and external doors

• Internal walls, ceilings and floors

• Kitchens, bathrooms and fitted joinery

• Loft spaces where accessible

• Heating and hot water systems overview

• Electrical fixtures and fittings operation

• Ventilation systems

• External drainage observations

• Paths, driveways and boundary treatments

• Garages and permanent outbuildings where applicable

• Shared or communal areas where accessible

Accessible services and fitted appliances are operated in normal everyday modes where possible as part of the inspection process.

The Finishing Checklist

The output of the inspection is a detailed Finishing Checklist recording all Items for Attention identified during the survey.

The report is designed to provide:

• Clear identification of defects and incomplete works

• Trade-specific categorisation of items

• Practical observations regarding workmanship and finish

• Inspection limitations where relevant

• Recommendations for any further specialist investigations where appropriate

The report is suitable for sharing with the developer in accordance with the New Homes Quality Code to assist with remedial works.

When Should a Snagging Survey Be Carried Out?

Ideally, the inspection should be carried out:

• After the Notice to Complete has been issued; and

• Before legal completion takes place

Where access prior to completion is not possible, the inspection should be undertaken as soon as practicable after completion and occupation.

Early inspection allows identified Items for Attention to be raised promptly with the developer during applicable defect liability and warranty periods.

Why Choose Huxley Surveyors?

Clients instruct Huxley Surveyors for:

• Independent professional advice

• Thorough and detailed inspections

• Clear, practical reporting

• Experienced residential surveyors

• Understanding of modern construction methods

• Knowledge of NHQB and new home inspection standards

• Coverage throughout Surrey, Kent, Sussex and London

We understand the standards, tolerances and workmanship expectations applicable to newly constructed residential properties and provide commercially focused reporting designed to assist purchasers during the completion process.

Arrange a New Build Snagging Survey

If you are purchasing a newly built property in Surrey, Kent, Sussex or London, contact Huxley Surveyors to arrange an independent New Build Snagging Survey and obtain professional advice before legal completion or during the early stages of occupation.