Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it’s also one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your lifetime. While moving into a new property may feel like a dream come true, it’s crucial to ensure that the property is in top-notch condition before you make the final handover. This is where a snag list comes into play.
What is a Snag List?
A snag list is an itemised checklist of defects, issues, or incomplete works in a property that need to be addressed by the builder before the final transaction is completed. Think of it as a quality check for your new home, ensuring that it meets the proper standards, complies with regulations, and is safe and comfortable to live in.
From cosmetic flaws like scuffed walls to major compliance issues like missing fire seals, a snag list helps future homeowners identify any rectifications required ahead of moving in. This simple concept ensures peace of mind for buyers amidst what can otherwise be a challenging process.
Why is a Snag List Essential?
While modern construction standards have significantly improved, with regulations like Building Control (Amendment) Regulations introduced in 2014, issues can still arise. Even homes with a 10-year warranty may have unresolved problems that you wouldn’t want to discover after moving in.
Here’s why snag lists are vital:
- Protect Your Investment: Buying a home is a substantial financial commitment. A snag list ensures your investment is worth every penny.
- Hold Builders Accountable: A snag list obligates the builder to rectify faults or incomplete items before you take ownership.
- Save Time and Money: Spotting and fixing issues early prevents costly repairs and renovations down the line.
- Ensure Safety and Compliance: Addressing structural problems or non-compliance with safety standards is not just important—it’s necessary for your peace of mind and security.
Common Issues Found in a Snag List
A snag list often includes a mix of cosmetic issues and more critical concerns. Here’s what might appear on your snag list:
Interior Issues:
- Scuff marks on walls and ceilings.
- Poorly aligned doors, joinery, and skirting boards.
- Missing labels for fuse boards or electrical systems.
- Leaking pipes or defective plumbing.
- Uneven tiling or damaged grout work.
Exterior Issues:
- Damaged or poorly installed roof tiles and chimneys.
- Water ponding or poor drainage on flat roofs.
- Poorly painted or unfinished render work.
- Fencing or outdoor landscaping left incomplete.
Compliance Issues:
- Missing fire seals in attic walls.
- Undersized fire escape windows in bedrooms.
- Poor ventilation in key areas, such as bathrooms.
- Insufficient clearance over staircases or low ceiling heights.
A quality snag list will cover both functional issues and aesthetic details to ensure that every aspect of your home meets expectations.
How to Create a Snag List
Creating a snag list might sound daunting, but with the right help, it’s a straightforward process. Here’s how you can go about it:
1. Hire a Chartered Surveyor
A professional is key to making this process efficient and effective. Avoid shortcuts like asking a builder friend or doing it yourself—this could result in significant issues being overlooked. A chartered building surveyor will have the expertise required to identify both visible and hidden faults.
2. Attend the Inspection
While it’s not required, attending the inspection alongside the surveyor can help you ask questions and better understand the issues listed. Builders are obligated to resolve these snags before the handover.
3. Check Construction Specifications
Request your surveyor to compare the property against construction drawings and specifications to ensure it has been built to the agreed standards. This is an extra layer of diligence that could identify discrepancies.
4. Get a Recheck of the Property
Once the builder claims all snags are resolved, have your surveyor revisit the property to verify that everything has been rectified to an acceptable standard. It’s common practice to close out a snag list in stages.
Useful Tips for Buyers
- Engage Early: Don’t wait until after the transaction to identify issues. A snag list should ideally be completed before the final payment.
- Document Everything: Maintain records of your snag list and all subsequent communications with the builder.
- Stay Persistent: It’s common for builders to debate what’s included. Stand firm, especially for safety or compliance-related issues.
- Be Realistic: While perfection might be unrealistic, ensure all issues critical to quality, safety, and aesthetics are resolved.
Final Thoughts
A snag list is your safeguard against oversights in your new home. It ensures that your property meets high standards and provides you with the peace of mind you deserve as you start this new chapter.
If you’re a first-time buyer or looking for expert legal assistance consult our property team. Being proactive now can save you time, stress, and money in the future.
