Snagging Surveys: The Difference Between DIY Inspections and Professional Assessments

When purchasing a new build home, most buyers assume that everything will be in perfect condition. However, new builds are often plagued by a range of minor defects, or “snags”, which need addressing before you settle in.

This is where new build snagging surveys come into play. These comprehensive inspections of your new property are designed to identify any defects, from cosmetic blemishes to potentially serious structural issues.

Some homeowners might consider conducting their own DIY snagging inspection, hoping to save money. While it’s possible to identify a few issues yourself, professional surveys carried out by a professional snagging company are generally far more thorough, accurate, and reliable.

In this blog, the experts from Surrey Snagging will explore the key differences between DIY inspections and professional assessments, highlighting why professional snagging surveys can save you both time and money in the long run.

What is a Snagging Survey?

A snagging survey is a thorough inspection carried out on new build homes to identify any defects or unfinished work that may have been overlooked during construction. It covers everything from minor cosmetic problems – like uneven paintwork or misaligned doors – to more serious issues, such as faulty plumbing, electrical faults, and structural concerns.

Snagging surveys are typically conducted within the first two years of purchasing a new build, while the home is still under the developer’s defects warranty (however, major structural issues are covered by warranty for up to ten years after your purchase). This allows the homeowner to ensure that the developer addresses defects at no extra cost.

Without a snagging survey, many of these issues may go unnoticed until after the warranty expires, leaving you responsible for potentially costly repairs. Similarly, the longer you wait to have a survey carried out, the more opportunity there will be for your developer to try and put any snags down to wear and tear.

At Surrey Snagging, we specialise in conducting comprehensive snagging surveys that provide peace of mind that your new property is thoroughly inspected and free from defects.

DIY Snagging Inspections: The Limitations

When eager to move into a new property, many new homeowners may decide to carry out a DIY snagging inspection instead of hiring professionals.

While DIY inspections can help spot obvious flaws like poor paint jobs or scuffed flooring, they are limited in their effectiveness by the three factors explained below. This means DIY snagging can often miss the more significant and hidden issues, which could cause bigger problems down the line.

1. Lack of Professional Knowledge

The biggest limitation of DIY snagging inspections is the homeowner’s lack of technical expertise. Most homeowners aren’t familiar with current construction standards or the finer details of building regulations, meaning they may not even know what to look for when identifying defects or structural issues.

A professional snagging company, on the other hand, employs experts who understand the technical aspects of home construction. We know where to look for problems and have the knowledge to assess the quality of workmanship properly.

For this reason, industry experts like On The Market and Mortgage Advice Bureau recommend opting for professional snagging surveys.

2. Missing Hidden Issues

DIY inspections tend to focus on visible defects. However, many of the most serious problems in a new build are hidden beneath the surface.

For example, homeowners might not notice poor insulation behind walls, loose wiring, structural weaknesses, or even substandard drainage systems that could lead to significant future issues. These are the types of problems that only a trained professional is likely to spot.

According to Petty Son & Prestwich, even the most comprehensive DIY snagging checklists might overlook hidden defects that could have a big impact on your home’s safety and functionality.

3. Time-Consuming and Incomplete

Conducting a full inspection of a new build home can be a time-consuming process. DIY snagging surveys may involve hours of checking through every room in the house. Even then, most homeowners won’t be able to do a fully complete search.

Meanwhile, professional snagging inspectors have this process down to an art, with a systematic approach that ensures no aspect of the property is overlooked.

Without the right tools, time, and expertise, it’s easy to miss key problems, which is why many experts recommend hiring a professional snagging company to handle the inspection instead.

Why Professional Snagging Surveys Are Superior

Opting for a professional snagging survey is the best way to ensure that your new build is thoroughly inspected and any defects are caught early.

Professional snagging companies have years of experience in identifying and resolving issues in new builds, making their service far more reliable than a DIY approach.

1. Thoroughness

Professional snagging surveys are incredibly thorough, covering every aspect of the property. From structural defects to plumbing and electrical systems, nothing is left unchecked.

Informed by years of experience and knowledge, professionals know to inspect for hidden problems in areas that a layperson might miss, such as behind fixtures, within walls, and even beneath the floorboards.

At Surrey Snagging, we take pride in our meticulous approach to snagging surveys. Our expert team ensures that every corner of your home is inspected and that any issues, big or small, are identified.

2. Specialist Tools and Knowledge

Professional snagging companies use specialist tools and equipment to identify issues in your property that would be invisible to the naked eye. For example, thermal cameras can detect poor insulation or heat loss, while moisture meters can spot damp issues before they become severe.

Beyond tools, snagging professionals also bring extensive industry knowledge. As noted by Net Lawman, professionals know how homes should be built and can recognise whether something has been constructed in line with current standards.

Due to this, snagging surveys carried out by professionals often hold far more weight with developers than DIY versions.

3. Unbiased Reporting

A professional snagging company provides an unbiased, impartial report of your new build. They work on your behalf, not the developer’s, to ensure that every issue is documented and that the developer fixes these problems.

This level of impartiality is crucial when dealing with developers, as professional snagging surveys can provide evidence should any disputes arise.

The Risks of Overlooking Defects

Many homeowners may be tempted to skip snagging surveys altogether, believing their new build is in good condition. However, failing to conduct a thorough survey can lead to significant problems down the line, especially if defects go unnoticed until after the warranty period expires.

Long-term problems that arise from overlooking defects may include:

Increased Maintenance Costs. Defects that are not identified soon after your purchase can worsen over time. What may start as a minor leak, for example, can lead to significant water damage if left unaddressed. These kinds of issues can result in expensive repairs that might have been avoided had they been caught early.
Safety Hazards. Snagging surveys don’t just identify cosmetic defects – they also reveal potential safety hazards. Faulty electrical wiring, improperly installed windows, and poor ventilation can all pose serious risks if not addressed. A professional will ensure that all safety concerns are identified and rectified before they become a danger to your family.
Decreased Property Value. As noted by Property Investments UK, snagging surveys are essential for preserving your home’s value. If defects are not fixed, they can affect your home’s structural integrity, leading to a decrease in market value. By conducting a professional survey, you ensure that your home remains a valuable asset.

Get Your Free Quote from a Professional Snagging Company in Surrey

While DIY inspections may seem like a cost-saving option, they come with significant risks, such as missing critical defects or failing to identify hidden issues. Professional snagging surveys offer far more value by providing a comprehensive, unbiased assessment of your new build.

By hiring a reputable company like Surrey Snagging, you ensure that your home is thoroughly inspected, and any issues are caught and fixed before they become costly problems. Ultimately, investing in a professional snagging survey is the best way to protect your home and safeguard your investment.