It is easy to assume that new build properties do not require a survey, but skipping this step can be costly. Investing in a thorough survey upfront helps identify potential issues early, saving you from unexpected expenses and repairs down the line.
Navigating Warranty Problems
Many new-build homes come with a valuable 10-year warranty to safeguard your investment. The NHBC is the leading provider, but other reputable institutions, like the Federation of Master Builders, also offer warranties that protect against structural issues.
While the extent of warranty coverage varies, most policies cover both defects and structural issues initially. Usually, for the first 24 months, homeowners are protected against both. Beyond this time limit, warranties limit coverage to structural defects, leaving responsibility for minor non-structural problems such as snagging or fixture issues with the homeowner.
It is important to understand that warranties typically do not cover wear and tear, natural disasters, or damage caused by weather. Usually, protection against the latter two falls under your home insurance policy.
How to Decide What’s Right
While a builder’s snagging report is standard with new homes, it is often not comprehensive enough. Having an independent snagging survey conducted ensures a more detailed inspection and helps you avoid overlooked issues.
A Survey Report will delve deeply into the quality of finishes, assessing brickwork, render, and other key features. It will also ensure that the cladding, fascia’s, soffits, and barge boards are installed correctly, with proper alignment and level surfaces.
Additional inspections focus on the interior installation quality, including bathroom and kitchen fittings. Also ensuring that walls and window reveals are square, floors are level, and finishes are consistent with industry tolerance standards.
The crucial question for any new build is whether the quality of workmanship and finishing, both inside and outside, meets the level that should be expected from a newly constructed home.
Minor defects noticed early on can develop into significant structural or environmental issues over time, often beyond the lifespan of the warranty. Cracks may enlarge, potentially leading to damp, condensation, or mould. Claims within the warranty period typically require evidence that the defect stems directly from the original construction.
When Is the Right Time for a Report?
If the property is fully built, scheduling a snagging survey before you exchange contracts is highly recommended.
If you are buying an off-plan home that has not yet completed, it is best to arrange a survey before completion. This gives you greater leverage to negotiate repairs for any issues found. However, developers do not always permit site visits before handover; if this is the case, arrange a snagging survey as soon as you have moved in.
Secure Your Investment with an Independent Surveyor.
For the best results, it is a clever idea to get your snagging report done by an independent surveyor like S Jones Surveying.
We represent your interests, not those of your mortgage lender, ensuring complete impartiality and independence. Our detailed reports can help simplify the process of making any warranty claims on your home.