completed new build flat - when to do snagging?

[benssson]

Hi all!

we're currently in the process of buying an already completed new build flat and I was wondering when you normally do snagging? is it as early as possible? before exchange? before completion? after completion?

Is it worth getting a professional company in to do this? its only a small 2 bed flat.

all the threads I've read was about houses that weren't completed yet. the flat we're buying is one of the last to be sold and most of the others have had people move in already.

TIA

[Tony]

Hi,

Welcome to the forum and a great question.

When the property is completed or a stock home you have much more flexibility to do snagging and the best time to do it is before you exchange contracts.

If there is anything significant you can have this written into the contract as a snagging clause with a retention. The big builders will not agree to this though, but you can always walk away if it is going to be a home from hell.

Also speak to the neighours and try and find out what problems they have had and how well the builder dealt with them.

Hope this helps

Tony

[SteveR]

Originally Posted by benssson

Is it worth getting a professional company in to do this? its only a small 2 bed flat.

Hi,

I'll declare my interest from the start here - I run New Build Inspections, a professional new build snagging company (see the link in my signature below)

We would always recommend getting a professional in to do the inspection as their technical knowledge and experience makes sure that defects are identified - even those that are not obvious. A poorly fitted door would be obvious to everyone, but would you know if a correctly fitted door is a fire door, or whether or not it should be?

As for timing, we always recommend carrying out the inspection before completion of the sale. There are several reasons for this:

1. If any major defects are identified and you have a snagging clause like Tony pointed out, you can delay completion until the problems are corrected

2. Any remedial works can be carried out before you move in. We had a case recently where there was a problem with the lounge ceiling. To take down a ceiling and reinstate it in an unoccupied house with no carpets fitted is not a particularly difficult job. It becomes a major undertaking once you've moved in and there's furniture and floor finishes, and you may well have to move out for a few days.

3. It's simply easier to carry out an inspection on an unoccupied property. Furniture, pictures on walls and other belongings can all hide defects.

At the very least, you should download one of the snagging lists available on the internet and do a thorough inspection yourself, and if you have any doubts at all get a professional in.

Steve.

[benssson]

thanks for the replies!

will get a snagging company come in a look at the place asap

[whyelanhomes]

it is well worth taking the advice above. Many of us who bought a David McLean, now Elan Homes property are still dealing with problems and snags almost two years after buying off plan

look at whyelanhomes.com