RICS Regulated • Liverpool & North West

New Build Snagging Survey Liverpool

Buying a new build? An independent snagging survey from JGL Associates identifies defects before you complete — so the developer fixes them at no cost to you.

Get a QuoteCall 07421 997067
What is it?

What Is a Snagging Survey?

A snagging survey — also known as a new build inspection — is an independent, detailed inspection of a newly built property that identifies defects, poor workmanship and items that fall below the standard expected.

Even reputable developers regularly hand over properties with dozens of snags. Without an independent inspection, you may not discover issues until after you have moved in, by which point the developer is far less responsive to warranty claims.

JGL Associates are a RICS regulated firm. Our snagging surveys are carried out by a qualified, experienced surveyor and delivered as a clear, professionally produced report you can present directly to your developer.
New build kitchen — typical area inspected in a snagging survey
Why it matters

Why Do I Need a Snagging Survey?

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Developers rush to complete

New build developers have a commercial incentive to hand over as quickly as possible. Snag lists of 50+ items are common even on well-managed sites.

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Independent documented evidence

Our professional report gives you documented evidence of every defect that the developer cannot dispute, putting you in the strongest negotiating position.

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Defects fixed at no cost

Defects identified before or shortly after completion are the developer’s responsibility to remedy at no cost to you under their warranty obligations.

Scope of inspection

What Does Our Snagging Survey Include?

Our survey covers a thorough inspection of all accessible areas, internally and externally. Common issues found include poor paintwork, defective windows and doors, plumbing faults and drainage problems.

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Internal Inspection

  • All rooms, ceilings, walls and floors
  • Fitted kitchens and bathrooms
  • Staircases, doors and windows
  • Electrical fittings and sockets (visual)
  • Plumbing and heating (visual)
  • Roof space where safely accessible
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External Inspection

  • Roof covering and guttering
  • External walls, brickwork and rendering
  • Windows and external doors
  • Driveways, paths and boundaries
  • Drainage and external groundworks
  • Garden and landscaping completeness
Timing

When Should I Book?

1

Before completion (ideal)

Maximum leverage — require all defects to be remedied before you move in.

2

On key handover

If pre-completion access is refused, we survey immediately after you receive the keys.

3

Within 2 years

Developer’s full warranty covers all defects for two years. Act within this window for the strongest rights.

NHBC Buildmark warranty: Most new builds carry a 10-year NHBC Buildmark warranty. The first two years place full responsibility on the developer for all defects. After two years, only structural defects are covered — so act promptly.
FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

A snagging survey is an independent inspection of a newly built property that identifies defects, poor workmanship, incomplete finishes and items that fall below the standard expected of a new build home. The resulting report is presented to the developer to require them to remedy all identified items under their warranty obligations.
The ideal time is before legal completion, as this gives you the most leverage to have defects corrected before you move in. If pre-completion access is refused, the survey can be carried out after you receive the keys — developer warranty obligations remain fully in place for two years.
Developers are not legally obliged to allow access before completion, though many do. If access is refused, JGL Associates can carry out the survey immediately after you receive the keys, while the developer’s full warranty obligations are still in place.
The duration depends on the size of the property. A typical 3-bedroom new build takes approximately 2–4 hours to inspect thoroughly. You will receive a full written report shortly after the inspection is completed.
Areas covered
LiverpoolMerseysideWirralSouthportSt HelensKnowsleySeftonWarrington

Get in touch

Book Your Snagging Survey

Contact JGL Associates today. We aim to respond to all enquiries within one working day.

Get a Free Quote
JGL Associates | Liverpool Building Surveyor
1 Crawford Close, West Derby, Liverpool, L12 4YU
📞 07421 997067  |  ✉️ office@jgla.co.uk
RICS Regulated • Serving Liverpool, Merseyside & the North West

Regulated by RICS