Identify Defects Early and Protect Your Investment

Buying a brand-new home should mean a perfect finish—but in reality, most new build properties are handed over with defects. A New Build Snagging Survey ensures your home meets the standard you were promised, before problems become costly.

At Kenny Relf Surveyors, we provide independent snagging inspections to help you move in with confidence and hold your developer accountable.

A snagging survey is a detailed inspection of a newly built property carried out before or shortly after completion. 

It identifies defects - known as snags - which can include poor workmanship, unfinished items, and compliance issues that fall below expected standards. 

You receive a comprehensive, photographic report that can be presented directly to your developer, requiring them to put things right.

Most New Builds Have Defects

Even brand-new homes frequently have issues due to fast construction timelines, multiple contractors, and quality control gaps. 

Protect Your Investment

A snagging survey helps identify issues early - before they turn into costly repairs once you’ve moved in. 

Ensure the Builder Fixes Problems

Developers are typically obliged to fix defects within the warranty period, and a professional report provides the evidence to enforce this. 

Gain Leverage Before Completion

The best time to identify defects is before completion, when you have the strongest position to insist on repairs. 

Avoid Stress After Moving In

Finding problems after furnishing your home is far more disruptive and harder to manage. A snagging survey avoids this scenario.

Our inspections are systematic and thorough, covering all accessible areas of the property.

Internal Areas:

• Walls, ceilings and plaster finishes
• Paintwork, tiling and decoration
• Doors, windows and joinery
• Flooring, skirting and fittings

Kitchens & Bathrooms:

• Units, worktops and appliances
• Plumbing, water pressure and leaks
• Sealants, grouting and installation quality

External & Structural Elements:

• Brickwork, render and pointing
• Roof coverings and guttering
• Drainage and external finishes

Common Defects Identified:

• Poor paintwork or unfinished decoration
• Misaligned doors and windows
• Gaps in sealants and insulation
• Plumbing or drainage issues
• Uneven floors or poor plastering

Snags can range from cosmetic defects to serious structural or functional issues, all of which should be corrected by the developer.

There are three key stages:

Pre‑Completion Inspection (Best Option):

Identify issues before you legally complete

On Completion Day:

Record defects before moving in

During the 2‑Year Defect Period:

Catch issues that appear after occupation

Early inspection gives you maximum leverage and faster resolution.

A professional snagging survey allows you to:

• Present a clear defect list to the developer
• Ensure works meet agreed specifications
• Reduce the risk of future repair costs
• Improve build quality before you move in
• Secure peace of mind in a major purchase

With many new homes containing dozens (or even hundreds) of snags, a professional inspection is one of the most valuable safeguards you can invest in.