What to Do After Receiving Your Snagging Report
Buying a new-build home should be an exciting milestone, but even the most reputable developers can leave behind defects, incomplete work, or poor finishes. That’s where a professional Accredited Snagging Survey makes all the difference. Once you’ve booked your survey with Knott Brothers and received your detailed snagging report, what happens next? In this blog, we’ll guide you through the key steps to ensure your developer addresses every issue efficiently and within your warranty period.
Step 1: Read and Understand Your Report
Your snagging report will contain a clear, structured list of issues—both cosmetic and functional—identified during the inspection. At Knott Brothers, we present everything in an easy-to-read format with a Red-Amber-Green rating system, photos of each snag, and practical notes on why each issue matters. Take the time to review your report carefully and feel free to contact us to clarify anything.
Step 2: Share the Report with Your Developer Promptly
Once you’ve read through your report, we are happy to send it to your builder with you copied (or you are welcome to send it yourself). New-build homes are typically covered by warranties, such as the NHBC Buildmark warranty, which often have strict timeframes for reporting snags. By sending the report promptly, you:
- Keep your claims within the builder’s responsibility period
- Avoid disputes about whether issues developed after you moved in
- Give your developer enough time to schedule and complete repairs
- Ensure that you request written confirmation that your developer has received your snagging report.
Step 3: Follow Up and Agree on a Timescale
Not all developers are proactive in resolving snags, so it’s essential to follow up and agree on a reasonable timeframe for the work. Most professional builders will prioritise urgent issues, such as faulty plumbing or electrics, before addressing cosmetic defects. Keep all communication in writing where possible. This provides a clear record of your requests and the builder’s responses, which can be helpful if you need to escalate matters later.
Step 4: Monitor the Repairs
When your builder arranges for the repairs, check that the work is carried out to an acceptable standard. If you’re unsure whether a fix is adequate, you can always seek further professional advice from your surveyor. It’s also wise to inspect other areas of the property after repairs are completed to ensure no further damage has been caused during the process.
Step 5: Escalate if Necessary
In most cases, reputable developers will resolve snags without issue. However, if your builder refuses to act or carries out substandard remedial work, you can escalate the matter through the New Homes Ombudsman Scheme or your warranty provider. A clear, independent report from an accredited snagging surveyor like Knott Brothers provides strong evidence if you need to take your case further.
Why a Professional Snagging Report is Essential
A DIY checklist or a quick visual scan won’t uncover the level of detail a professional snagging survey identifies. At Knott Brothers, our inspections include:
- Full visual checks of the interior, exterior, gardens, garages, and loft
- Functional testing of electrics, plumbing, and fixtures
- Thermal imaging of the heating system
- Major defects that could lead to important problems like water ingress
- Cosmetic defects that affect your enjoyment of your new home
With our Accredited Snagging Surveys, you can hold your builder accountable and ensure your new home meets the quality you paid for.
Book Your Snagging Survey Today
