In 2020 the world changed as we know it with a global pandemic, this is still ongoing as I write this in 2021, however, there is possibly an end in sight now that a vaccine is being distributed. If you have the option of hiring a professional snagger to inspect your home always do so. However, the pandemic has left some new homebuyers with no choice but to snag their own home. This is our foolproof method on how to snag your own house.
Professional Snagging Procedure in Lockdown
Over the last 10 months the construction and housing industry, like others, has struggled. It’s not because people don’t need snagging services. It’s that we must all follow lockdown and social distancing procedures to help eradicate this virus. The way in which we interact and carry out our surveys has changed, social distancing and sanitisation of equipment have meant that we must be stringent in our regimes.
Attitudes, in general, have also changed, people are more nervous about interacting and inviting anyone into their new home. This is totally understandable and justifiable, to protect one another. Therefore, I feel it is important for any new house buyers to have the tools to snag their new homes if they feel the need too. However, I would always advise using a professional snagger who is qualified and has the equipment to identify defects that most new house buyers wouldn’t see.
What is a New Build Snagging Survey?
In simple terms, a snagging survey is a non-intrusive inspection of your property to determine whether there are any faults in the structure and composition of the home. Some solicitors may advise against conducting snag inspections. This is due to extra cost and possible problems with the house builder. However, if you’re looking to make a forever home, you should ensure your peace of mind by conducting a snagging survey.
When you move into a new build you should expect the home to be in perfect working order, seeing as it’s not been lived in before. Still unsure? Find a more detailed explanation on our blog.
How to Snag Your Own House
Most importantly, if you must snag your own home, be honest. By noting things as snags when they aren’t can extend the time it takes to get real snags fixed. Especially during tight lockdown restrictions, you don’t want any more delays because of discrepancies in your snag report. Being vigilant to what is and isn’t a snag is incredibly important when you’re trying to create your own snag report.
Initially, you’ll want to plan how you will conduct your inspection with our Ultimate Snagging Checklist. Then you can know what it is that you’re looking for and save yourself time and energy. Once you have completed your snagging list I would always advise sending it straight to your builder’s customer care department. That way all defects are logged with them in the first instance.
It is recommended that you take photos of any snags with your report to speed up the process of fixing them. During the pandemic, you may have to wait longer for snags to be rectified. While social distancing and cleaning procedures increase the time taken for builders to complete a job.
How to Snag Your Own House – Next Steps
After you’ve completed the survey you’ll want to start these next steps. First of all, send the report to your home builder and contact them asking about their rectification process. This is different depending on the builder. However, usually they will be in contact with you 48 hours after they’ve received your report.
Your home builder will then likely want to do an inspection of your property to view the snags and decipher what they are willing to fix. Once the snags have been rectified, use our Ultimate Snagging Checklist again to double-check your home for any defects. If you are left in a position where your home builder is refusing to fix a snag it may be time to get in contact with a professional snagging company for advice on how to proceed. We all know that there are lots of problems with the new build property industry, I even wrote about it. But by conducting a snagging checklist you can rest assured your home is perfect.
A professional snagger will be able to give you an informed point of view and can help you to rectify any problems within your home. In most cases, I would recommend a professional snagger is a necessity. However, while we battle Covid-19 some home buyers must conduct their own. For any further advice, explore our blog post on What to do After Your Snagging Survey, or don’t hesitate to contact us. We are snagging and new build home experts and we look forward to speaking to you.
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