New Build Snagging Surveys

Taking the stress out of buying for new home owners.

New Build Snagging Surveys

It is understandable that buying a newly built property can be a stressful process, especially if it is the first time you are buying a property. That is why here at Andrew James Property Surveyors we fully appreciate how stressful this process can be.

As a result, we at Andrew James Property Surveyors offer a snagging service for new builds to ensure your home meets your requirements.

Upon receiving the keys to your new home, your builder will ask you for a list of any defects, snags or issues you find in your new home.

You may find it strange that you are asked to find faults with your brand new house, but you must remember that many trades have worked together to hand build your house in all-weather conditions.

There are a number of defects and poor workmanship in new homes that are common today. The construction industry is plagued with inexperienced and poorly skilled tradesmen who take little or no pride in the work they are performing. When you combine this with the government’s demands for more homes and the housebuilders’ need to satisfy their shareholders, it’s not surprising the industry has a poor reputation for delivering quality new homes.

Many times, customers are left to foot the bill for defects they notice too late or are unable to identify without specialist equipment and knowledge. When all these facts are taken together, the consequences are not good, which is why Andrew James Property Surveyors recommends you have a full snagging survey of your new home completed, before you move in.

As snagging surveyors, we specialise in new build houses and apartments, not only compiling a comprehensive snagging report, but also creating a detailed snagging document, so that your builder can act promptly to remedy the defects we find.

You should have your snagging inspection carried out preferably before you take legal completion (unfortunately, most builders will not allow this), since it is more convenient for you and will cause you the least disruption after you move in. This will also give your builder more time to remedy any defects we find and locate, especially major ones.

Our recommendation is that you have a snagging survey carried out as soon as possible following handover, but definitely within the first two months of occupation. The majority of house builders will have a customer care charter which outlines the procedures and timeframes for reporting defects to their customer care department, please make yourself aware of this.

A detailed comprehensive photographic snagging report, which you will receive no later than 72 hours post survey, electronically, complies all the minor and major defects found within your new home based on our extensive knowledge and experience in the industry.

An inspection for snaggings is not a structural or valuation report, but rather a visual check.

The inspection usually takes between two and four hours, and our reports contain a summary of all the defects that we have found.

Through snagging, we commonly find roofing problems, poor insulation, thermal bridges, poor brickwork, leaks, violations of the building codes and NHBC/LABC standards, and cosmetic issues, such as damaged kitchen units, woodwork and finishes.

During your new-build property’s snagging inspection, we will perform the following checks:

Roofing tiles and/or slates
Rainwater gutters and downspouts
Driveways and gardens
Fences, gates, etc.
Driveways
Paths, hardstanding areas and patios
Aspects of all elevations, including garages
Inspection of the loft
Windows and doors on the exterior
Decorative and plastering work
Skirting boards, architraves, and internal doors
Aspects of ironmongery
The kitchen furniture
The sanitary fittings
The walls, flooring, ceilings, and staircases
Tilling of walls and floors
Test of electrical sockets
Testing for leaks in the plumbing system
Performing a CO2 test on a boiler
Compliance with Fire Safety Regulations
Any breach of building regulations
Workmanship that is poor

If you would like an instant quote for one of our surveys, please call us to speak to one of our advisors or click the ‘GET A QUOTE’ button below.

Residential Valuations across Tyne and Wear

As RICS-registered valuers, we provide accurate, independent and professionally prepared building valuations across Tyne and Wear. Our valuations are carried out in accordance with current RICS standards and are suitable for a wide range of formal and statutory purposes, including:

Help to Buy and Shared Ownership
Probate and Inheritance Tax matters
Matrimonial or Divorce proceedings
Insurance Reinstatement Costings and assessments
Re-mortgaging and Independent Valuations
Independent Asset Valuations

All valuations are carried out to RICS standards, ensuring professionalism, accuracy, and reliability.

Why Choose Andrew James Property Surveyors in Tyne and Wear?

RICS-Accredited Expertise: Our reports and property valuations meet the highest professional standards.
Regional Knowledge: Based in the North East, our surveyors have extensive experience across Tyne and Wear’s varied residential property market, from period homes to modern developments.
Personal Service: Our surveyors maintain a small case load, so every client receives prompt attention and detailed care.
Post-Report Review Call: Every client benefits from a personal follow-up call with the surveyor to discuss findings and next steps.
Clear and Understandable Reports: No jargon – just transparent insights you can act on.
Impartial Advice: We work solely for you, our client.

Whether you are purchasing your first home, expanding your Tyne and Wear property portfolio, or preparing a property for sale, we provide the clarity and reassurance needed to make informed decisions.

GET A QUOTE NOW!

What Our Clients Say

“We chose Andrew James Property Surveyors based on their excellent reputation. In a very short timeframe after contacting them, they scheduled a Homebuyers Survey (Level 2) for a price we considered to be very reasonable. Within 5 days of completing the survey, they sent a detailed report that was easy to understand and clearly outlined the areas to focus on for us and our solicitors. I couldn’t have asked for a better service. Andrew James Property Surveyors is definitely a company I would recommend.”
— Mr Alan B

“Exceptional service. We booked to have a Level 3 survey and valuation done on a property we were hoping to purchase. Both the survey and valuation were very thorough and I felt like no stone was left unturned. Andy was amazing, calling the same day the reports were issued to help understand the conclusions, plus we knew we could call if we had any further queries. We felt like we were in very safe hands and that we’d really been looked after. What a great team! Will definitely use them again.”
— Jane Paterson

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need a building survey?
Yes – even newer homes can hide issues that aren’t visible during a viewing. A professional survey gives you peace of mind and leverage in negotiations.

Which survey level should I choose?
For modern properties in good condition, a Level 2 Home Buyers Report is often sufficient. For older homes, listed buildings, or properties with extensions, a Level 3 Building Survey is recommended. We’re happy to advise on the best option.

Are your valuations accepted by lenders and official bodies?
Absolutely. As a RICS-accredited practice, all our valuations meet the required professional standards and can be used for official purposes.

How quickly will I receive my report?
We aim to deliver reports within five working days of inspection – and we’ll call you personally to explain the findings.

Pricing and Quotes
Every property is unique, so we provide tailored quotes based on the type, age, and location of the building. You’ll receive a clear, all-inclusive price before we begin, with no hidden fees. For an accurate quote, simply contact us using the details below.