Why a Snagging Inspection is Different from a Home Survey – And Why You Can’t Afford to Skip It

When buying a home, most people know about surveys. But for new build properties, a snagging inspection is equally important — and in many cases, even more so. The two serve very different purposes, and missing out on a snagging inspection could leave you facing unexpected repair bills that run into the thousands.

What a Home Survey Covers

A traditional home survey is carried out when buying an older property. Its purpose is to assess the overall condition and highlight risks such as damp, structural movement, or outdated services like wiring and heating. This type of check is essential for older buildings, where long-term wear and tear is a concern.

What a Snagging Inspection Covers

A snagging inspection, however, is specifically designed for new build homes. It goes into meticulous detail, checking every part of the property against expected standards of finish and safety. Unlike a survey, snagging looks for defects that are the builder’s responsibility to put right.

Common issues we uncover include:

Poor insulation in walls or lofts, causing high heating costs.

Faulty electrics or badly fitted plumbing.

Misaligned windows and doors that lead to draughts or leaks.

Defective brickwork or pointing that allows water to penetrate.

Cosmetic issues like cracked plaster, uneven flooring, or substandard paintwork.

Professional Standards Matter

It’s worth remembering that a professional snagging inspection is not just a quick visual check. A snagging inspector is also a registered surveyor, bringing the same professional training and standards you’d expect from any property inspection — but with specialist expertise in identifying new build defects.

Why You Cannot Do Without Snagging

Skipping a snagging inspection hands risk back to the homeowner. Builders are only obliged to correct defects that you identify and report within the warranty period. Without an inspection, costly issues often remain hidden until you discover them too late.

A leaking pipe can cause thousands in water damage.

Poor insulation or gaps around windows can add hundreds to annual energy bills.

Faulty electrics or plumbing may present serious safety risks.

A snagging inspection ensures these problems are identified early, giving the builder the responsibility to put them right at no extra cost to you.

Conclusion

A home survey protects buyers of older properties. A snagging inspection protects buyers of new builds. Both have their place, but if you’re moving into a brand-new home, snagging is the only way to ensure you get the quality and value you’ve paid for.

Don’t leave your investment to chance — arrange a professional snagging inspection and protect your new home from day one.