New build snagging surveys

tbo127

I’ve noticed that many developers don’t allow access for snagging surveys until after the sale has completed, even if the new build is built and the contractors are off site. Is this just normal practice? Is it wise to refuse to exchange and complete until access has been granted for a snagging survey? 

princeofpounds

I don't know if it's normal practice but I can understand why they do it - the average new build and a good snagger will lead to a list of snags as long as your arm and probably have people pulling out all over the place.

GixerKate

Well, you are requesting access to a house that you don't own as yet. If you end up with a big long list, then what?  Some things may take a little while to resolve, are you going to refuse to exchange unless they are fixed?

We submitted our our snagging list within the first week of moving in, have added a few things to it as when we spot anything else, don't forget you have 2 years to report and get stuff resolved.  We have now been here 6 months and there are still a few things outstanding but nothing too major.

davidmcn

tbo127 said:

Is it wise to refuse to exchange and complete until access has been granted for a snagging survey? 

What's actually happening in your case? Generally exchange will have happened long before construction is complete - and your contract is very unlikely to provide for completion not to occur just because there's some snagging to sort out.

tinytiddles

We bought one which was already built before we started the purchase process and we were allowed to visit the weekend prior to exchange of contracts because we wanted to measure up for curtains etc. This was all as we were emerging from lockdown 1.0 so we weren’t accompanied, the sales guy just unlocked the door and asked us to give him a bell when done. 

When we had finished he asked us if there was anything we weren't happy about (to be fair everything was fine and we have only had about 10 minor things done since moving).

However as a word of caution, I don’t think they would have allowed it if I told them it was for a snagging survey if I’m honest. I would get that done within 7 days of moving in (they won’t accept certain snags after 7 days by the way) and make sure the report is sent to them within that timeframe too. Even if you get it done beforehand, there isn’t anything you can do to delay completion based on snag rectification, the developer calls all the shots on the completion date. 

plucas9

did anyone use a snagging company for their snagging? I've been looking at The Professional Snagging Company? ... www.snaggingcompany.com ? any experiences or other recommendations welcome