Buying a new build home is a major investment. It’s exciting, but it also comes with responsibility. Many people assume that a brand-new home will be free of problems — but that’s rarely the case. Small defects and unfinished work are common, and without proper checks, they can become bigger problems down the line. This is why a snagging survey is so important.
What is a snagging survey?
A snagging survey is an independent inspection carried out on a newly built property. Its purpose is to identify defects, incomplete work, and anything that does not meet the expected standard. These snags might be cosmetic — such as paint drips or scuffed skirting — or more serious, like poor insulation, faulty plumbing, or misaligned windows and doors.
The inspection is usually followed by a clear report, which can be passed on to the builder so they can carry out the required fixes at no cost to the buyer.
Why are defects common in new builds?
New build homes are often completed under tight deadlines. Multiple contractors are involved, and work can sometimes be rushed to meet handover dates. When this happens, mistakes and shortcuts are common. Some faults are easy to spot, but many require a trained eye to identify.
It’s important to remember that developers are not required to tell you about every issue. Without a snagging inspection, many faults may go unnoticed until after you’ve moved in — when it’s much harder to get them resolved.
What kinds of issues are usually found?
Common snags include:
- Cracks around window frames
- Uneven or squeaky flooring
- Poor tiling or grouting
- Loose sockets or switches
- Faulty seals around baths or showers
- Insufficient loft insulation
- Doors that don’t latch properly
- Paint runs, scratches or unfinished surfaces
While these may seem minor at first, they often point to poor workmanship or rushed completion. In some cases, they can lead to long-term maintenance costs if left unresolved.
When should you have the survey done?
Ideally, a snagging survey should be done before completion — but this isn’t always possible. Many homeowners get it done immediately after moving in. You still have protection under your developer’s warranty for up to two years in most cases, so there is time to submit the report and have faults corrected.
In fact, some people choose to have a second snagging survey towards the end of the warranty period, to catch any issues that may have developed in the first year.
Why hire a professional?
It can be tempting to walk around with a checklist and try to spot defects yourself. But even experienced homeowners often miss things. A professional snagging company has the experience, tools, and technical knowledge to identify faults you wouldn’t think to look for.
At Snag Spotters, we work across Dublin, Meath, Kildare, and Louth, offering expert inspections and easy-to-read reports. Our goal is to make sure your home is finished to the standard you paid for — nothing more, nothing less.
Peace of mind is worth it
You’ve spent a lot of money on your home. You deserve to know that everything is right. A snagging survey gives you confidence, protects your investment, and makes sure the builder delivers what was promised.
If you’re moving into a new build or have recently settled in, don’t wait until something goes wrong. Book a snagging inspection and get the peace of mind that everything has been properly checked.