Top 10 Most Common Snags We Find In New Build Properties

Buying a new-build home should feel like a dream. But the reality? Many come with unexpected faults, some minor, others serious. At Home Snagging UK, we inspect hundreds of properties every year. Here are the top 10 most common snags we find and why they matter.

1. Poorly Fitted Doors and Windows

Doors that don’t shut properly. Windows that stick. Misaligned frames. These aren’t just annoying, they can affect security and energy efficiency. We check every hinge, latch and frame.

2. Cracks in Walls and Ceilings

Settlement cracks are common, but some point to deeper issues. We flag anything that needs attention from the builder or worse, a structural fix.

3. Uneven Floors and Stairs

Lumpy carpet? Tiled floors that slope? Wobbly steps? We find uneven finishes more often than you’d think. It’s not just cosmetic, it can be a trip hazard.

4. Paintwork and Plaster Imperfections

Over-sprayed paint. Patchy walls. Visible plaster lines. New homes should look flawless. We’ll highlight all the cosmetic defects the builders hope you won’t notice.

5. Skirting Boards and Architraves Not Fitted Correctly

Gaps behind trims. Wonky joints. Poor caulking. These are tell-tale signs of rushed work. Our snagging report will pick them up, guaranteed.

6. Kitchen Fittings and Worktops

Loose units. Chipped worktops. Misaligned cupboard doors. Kitchens are often rushed to meet deadlines. We take our time to test every drawer, hinge and tap.

7. Plumbing Issues

Leaks under sinks. Poor drainage. Loose taps or noisy pipes. Plumbing is one of the most common and costly snagging areas. We use moisture meters to uncover hidden problems.

8. Heating and Ventilation Faults

Radiators not heating properly. Cold spots. Poorly installed mechanical ventilation. We use thermal imaging to spot hidden faults before they cause real discomfort.

9. Exterior Issues – Brickwork, Roofing, Guttering

Wonky brickwork. Loose tiles. Overflowing gutters. These external snags are easy to miss from the ground. That’s why we offer drone inspections to catch them all.

10. Missing Insulation or Poor Loft Access

New homes should be energy efficient. But poor loft insulation is a repeat offender. We check access, depth, and coverage. Then use thermal cameras to check for cold spots.

Why These Snags Matter

You’ve just made the biggest investment of your life. A professional snagging inspection ensures you get the quality you paid for. From minor flaws to major compliance issues. We document everything in a clear, detailed report. Ready to send straight to your builder.

Why Choose Home Snagging UK?

• Certified inspectors – RPSA-accredited, with years of experience
• High-tech tools – Thermal imaging, drones, moisture meters
• Nationwide service – Including Sheffield, Stoke-on-Trent, Telford, Leeds, and more
• No rush – We spend up to 4 hours on every property
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon can I book a snagging inspection?

You can book as soon as your developer gives you a completion date. We offer Pre-Completion Inspections (PCI) and Post-Completion surveys.

What if my builder refuses to fix the snags?

We provide a fully documented report, including photographic evidence, to help you hold your builder accountable.

Can I do snagging myself?

You can, but you’ll miss things. Our surveyors use professional tools and years of experience to uncover faults you won’t see.

Is snagging worth the cost?

Absolutely. Most clients recover the cost several times over in repairs, upgrades or compensation.

Book Your Snagging Survey Today

Don’t move in blind. Get your new build properly inspected by the experts.
Book Now or call us today for a quote.