Agree the inspection scope, record each concern clearly and keep track of repairs until they are resolved.
Start with the right inspection
A newly built home can still need finishing work or repairs. Snagging helps you record concerns clearly, so that the discussion with your developer is about specific items and actions.
Before booking, establish whether you need a pre-completion inspection or an inspection after handover. Ask the inspector what the service includes, what access they need and how findings will be presented. An appointment advertised as ‘snagging’ can cover different scopes; make sure it answers your questions.
Gather the agreed specification, plans, details of optional extras and any changes confirmed by the developer. These help distinguish an apparent defect from something that was specified differently.
Check which protection applies
Do not assume every new home has the same complaints route. Check your reservation paperwork, warranty information and the consumer code covering your purchase.
NHQB protection depends on the developer being active on its register and the reservation being made on or after the developer’s registration start date. The relevant version of the Code also matters.
For purchases covered by the current New Homes Quality Code, the developer must offer an opportunity for a pre-completion inspection by the customer or a suitably qualified inspector. The prescribed checklist applies. Agree access early, and ask your conveyancer about any concern that could affect legal completion.
Record concerns in a useful format
A useful record lets someone who was not present find the problem. Give each item a number, identify the room and location, and describe what you observed. Add an overall photograph and a closer image where helpful.
Illustrative example: ‘Bedroom two, window beside the wardrobe: handle does not close fully during normal operation.’ That is more actionable than ‘window faulty’.
Keep observations separate from a diagnosis you cannot confirm. Note any area that could not be inspected. Avoid dismantling fittings, entering unsafe spaces or testing electrical installations yourself. Agree which functional checks belong within the professional inspection.
Separate urgent problems from finishing items
A paint blemish and an uncontrolled water leak need different responses. Use the developer’s emergency procedure for urgent safety or essential-service problems instead of leaving them on a general snagging list.
For other items, send one organised record and ask the developer to confirm receipt, proposed actions and dates. Keep a copy of correspondence and update the same list after each visit.
Some issues appear only after occupation. Record when you first notice them and report them promptly. Warranty coverage and reporting requirements should be checked against your actual documents.
Sources [3]
Close the loop after repairs
A booked visit is not the same as a completed repair. Ask what was done, inspect the result safely and record whether the item is resolved, awaiting further work or disputed.
If an explanation is unclear, ask for it in writing. For unresolved matters, follow the developer’s formal complaints procedure and then check the appropriate escalation route. Your record should show the issue, the response and what remains outstanding.
Your checklist
- Confirm inspection stage, scope and access.
- Collect specifications, plans and warranty documents.
- Save normal and emergency contact details.
- Number observations and label photographs.
- Keep a single record of actions and responses.
- Review repairs before marking items complete.
Common questions
Does snagging replace my warranty?
No. An inspection records findings within its scope. Warranty cover is a separate arrangement governed by its terms.
Can a snagging report automatically postpone completion?
No. The NHQB checklist is not intended to prevent or delay contractual completion. Take advice from your conveyancer about the significance of particular findings.
Sources & further reading
Source material checked on 6 October 2026. Official guidance may change.
- NHQB — New Homes Quality Code, Part 2
- NHQB — Am I covered?
- NHQB — A homeowner guide to snagging, May 2026
General guidance for property owners in England. Your property, circumstances and agreed inspection scope determine the advice you need.
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Defect Investigation & Snagging
A closer look at the details that matter.
