A home is not just a place to live — it’s one of the most substantial investments you’ll ever make. Whether you’re purchasing a brand-new property or a previously owned home, it’s crucial to ensure the building is safe, sound, and worth the price. This is where property inspections come into play — but not all inspections are the same.
When assessing a home’s condition, the terms “snagging inspection” and “property survey” are often used interchangeably, especially by first-time buyers. However, depending on the age and condition of the property, these two serve very different purposes.
In this blog, we’ll explain the key differences between new-build Snagging London inspections and pre-owned property surveys so that you can choose the right type of assessment for your home-buying journey.
What Is a Snagging Inspection?
Intended explicitly for new-build houses, a snagging inspection highlights any defects or unfinished work. Its primary aim is to identify defects, unfinished work, or poor workmanship that need to be fixed before or shortly after the buyer moves in.
These faults — commonly referred to as “snags” — can range from minor cosmetic issues, such as paint splashes or chipped tiles, to more serious problems, including poorly installed windows, plumbing issues, or structural concerns.
Snagging reports are beneficial during the developer’s warranty period, which usually covers the first two years after handover. Getting a snagging inspection done early gives buyers the power to resolve issues at the builder’s expense.
What Is a Pre-Owned Property Survey?
On the other hand, a pre-owned property survey (often called a Home Survey or Building Survey) is performed on older, lived-in properties. The purpose is to assess the property’s current condition, identify potential risks, and provide a clear picture of long-term maintenance or repair costs.
There are three main types of home surveys in the UK, carried out by qualified RICS surveyors:
- Level 1: Condition Report – Basic overview for newer or well-maintained properties
- Level 2: HomeBuyer Report – Points out pressing defects, water damage, and potential structural risks
- Level 3: Full Building Survey – A comprehensive, room-by-room inspection for older or larger properties
The goal is to inform your purchase decision, often before contracts are exchanged.
Types of Defects Detected
New-Build Snagging Finds:
- Uneven flooring or skirting boards
- Doors and windows are not aligned properly
- Paint runs or poor plastering
- Loose fixtures and fittings
- Cracks from settlement
- Plumbing issues like slow drainage
- Incomplete or unsafe electrical fittings
- Heating system inconsistencies
Pre-Owned Property Surveys Find:
- Roof leaks or broken tiles
- Damp, mould, and ventilation problems
- Timber rot or woodworm infestations
- Asbestos (in older homes)
- Foundation movement or subsidence
- Worn-out plumbing, electrics, or insulation
- Unsafe fireplaces or chimney issues
- Poor energy efficiency
Why You Shouldn’t Skip Either
Some buyers mistakenly think that new builds don’t need inspections — after all, the property is brand new, right? Unfortunately, even newly constructed homes can suffer from poor workmanship, particularly when built at scale by large developers working under time pressure.
Similarly, buyers of older homes may be tempted to skip the survey to save costs. But this can backfire. Without a proper assessment, you might miss hidden issues that cost thousands down the line.
Both snagging and surveying serve as essential layers of buyer protection, saving you from repair bills, structural surprises, and disputes after purchase.
Who Should You Hire?
For Snagging Inspections:
Hire an independent snagging company with experience in new-build properties. Avoid inspectors recommended by the developer — they may not be impartial. Your chosen professional should be familiar with NHBC standards, developer obligations, and best practices in the construction industry.
For Property Surveys:
Look for an RICS-accredited surveyor. They are trained to assess the condition, value, and legal compliance of buildings. Many firms offer bundled services, including valuation and property surveys.
When Should You Schedule the Inspection?
Snagging:
Ideally, before you move in and within the first few weeks of completion. Some developers allow access just after completion, giving you a window to report snags before taking possession. If you’re already living there, inspections can still be done within the 2-year warranty period.
Survey:
Book the property survey before exchanging contracts. This way, you’ll have a clear picture of any repair costs and can renegotiate the price if needed or withdraw if serious problems are uncovered.
Final Thoughts
While snagging inspections and property Snagging Survey Kent both aim to protect buyers, they apply to very different property scenarios. Understanding the purpose, timing, and cost of each is essential to ensure you’re not left facing unexpected repairs or disappointments.
- Buying a new-build home? Invest in a professional snagging report to ensure you receive the quality you paid for — and hold the builder accountable.
- Buying a pre-owned property? A detailed survey will give you peace of mind about its actual condition and help you avoid significant future costs.
In both cases, an informed buyer is a protected buyer, and this begins with a proper inspection.