Moving into a brand-new home should be an exciting experience, but new builds are rarely perfect on completion day. Snagging — the process of identifying defects and unfinished work — is your opportunity to ensure the developer addresses every issue before you settle in. This comprehensive checklist covers over 100 items across every area of a new build property, giving you the confidence to conduct a thorough inspection.
Why Snagging Matters
New build homes are constructed under tight schedules, and even the most reputable developers can leave behind defects ranging from cosmetic blemishes to serious structural issues. The warranty period, typically covered by an NHBC or similar guarantee, gives you a limited window to report problems. A systematic snagging inspection ensures you catch issues while the developer is still obligated to fix them at no cost. Without a proper snag list, you risk living with defects or paying for repairs that should have been the builder's responsibility.
The Complete New Build Snagging Checklist
External Brickwork and Walls
The external envelope of your new home should be finished to a high standard. Even minor brickwork defects can lead to water ingress if left unaddressed.
- Check all brickwork for consistent pointing, mortar quality, and alignment
- Look for cracks in render, missing bricks, or damaged cladding panels
- Inspect the damp-proof course is visible and unobstructed around the entire perimeter
- Verify weep holes are present and clear above windows, doors, and at ground level
- Examine external wall ties and cavity trays for correct installation
Windows and External Doors
Windows and doors must be properly fitted and sealed to ensure energy efficiency and security. Poorly installed units are one of the most common snagging items found in new builds.
- Open and close every window to verify smooth operation and secure locking mechanisms
- Check all window seals for gaps, poor application, or missing sealant
- Inspect double glazing units for condensation between panes, scratches, or cracks
- Test all external door locks, handles, and hinges for proper function
- Verify door frames are square and doors close flush without dragging
Roofing and Drainage
Roof defects on new builds can be difficult to spot from ground level but have serious consequences if water begins to enter the property. Request access to the loft space during your inspection.
- Inspect the roof from ground level with binoculars for missing or misaligned tiles
- Check ridge tiles are properly bedded and hip tiles are securely fixed
- Examine gutters and downpipes for correct fall, secure brackets, and clear outlets
- Verify loft insulation is evenly laid to the specified depth across the entire loft area
Kitchen Installation
The kitchen is typically the most expensive room in the house and often has the highest number of snags. Every unit, worktop joint, and appliance deserves careful attention.
- Check all cabinet doors and drawers for alignment, smooth closing, and secure hinges
- Inspect worktop joints for gaps, uneven surfaces, or poor sealing around sinks
- Test all integrated appliances including the oven, hob, extractor hood, and dishwasher
- Run the kitchen taps and check water pressure, hot water delivery, and drainage speed
- Look for scratches, chips, or damage on surfaces, splashbacks, and flooring
Bathroom and Ensuite
Bathrooms must be watertight to prevent damage to the rooms below. Tiling, sealing, and plumbing connections all require careful inspection.
- Check all tiling for consistent grouting, level alignment, and absence of hollow tiles
- Inspect silicone seals around baths, showers, sinks, and toilet bases for complete coverage
- Test shower pressure, temperature consistency, and drainage speed with the shower running
- Flush toilets and verify cisterns refill correctly without running or leaking
- Look for scratches or chips on sanitaryware including basins, baths, and toilet bowls
Internal Walls, Ceilings, and Paintwork
Cosmetic defects are the most commonly found snags in new builds. While they may seem minor, a high volume of paint and plaster defects indicates poor quality control throughout the build.
- Inspect all walls for uneven plaster, nail pops, dents, or visible joint lines
- Check ceilings for cracks, sagging, or uneven plastering especially at junctions
- Examine paintwork for runs, missed areas, brush marks, or inconsistent coverage
- Verify skirting boards and architraves are securely fixed with neat mitred corners
Electrical and Lighting
All electrical installations in new builds must comply with Part P of the Building Regulations. Testing each element ensures the system is safe and complete.
- Test every socket in every room with a socket tester to verify correct wiring
- Switch on all light fittings and verify dimmer switches work through their full range
- Check the consumer unit for clear labelling and confirm RCD protection trips correctly
- Test doorbell, smoke alarms, and carbon monoxide detectors are all functional
Flooring and Stairs
Flooring defects can worsen quickly under daily foot traffic. Stairs must meet building regulations for safety, particularly if young children will be using the property.
- Walk across all floors listening for squeaks, creaks, or uneven surfaces underfoot
- Check carpet fitting is smooth with no wrinkles, gaps at edges, or poorly tucked joins
- Inspect tiled or vinyl flooring for chips, lifting edges, or grout inconsistencies
- Test stair handrails and balusters for stability and confirm spacing meets regulations
Best Practices for Snagging
- Conduct your snagging inspection before legal completion whenever possible to maximise leverage
- Use coloured sticky dots or tape to mark snag locations for the developer's repair team
- Photograph every defect with a reference note describing its exact location
- Submit your snag list in writing with photographs to create a formal record
- Set a deadline for repairs and schedule a follow-up inspection to verify work quality
- Consider hiring a professional snagging company for complex or high-value properties
How Checksheets Helps
Checksheets makes snagging faster and more effective by providing a digital checklist you can complete on-site using your phone or tablet. Tick off items as you inspect, add photographs directly to each snag entry, and categorise defects by room and severity. When you are finished, generate a professional snag report that can be emailed directly to your developer. Track which items have been resolved and which remain outstanding through your dashboard. With Checksheets, you maintain a clear, organised record of every defect from initial inspection through to final sign-off.
Your new home deserves to be perfect from day one. Use a structured snagging checklist to hold your developer accountable and ensure every issue is resolved. Start your free checklist now and take control of your snagging process.