New-Build Snagging Checklist: What to Check at Handover
Snagging is the process of finding and listing the faults, or “snags”, in a new-build home so the developer puts them right. Get it right at handover and you’ll save yourself months of chasing. This room-by-room snagging checklist covers exactly what to look for — and how to report it so the snags actually get fixed.
What is snagging, and why does it matter?
A “snag” is anything that isn’t finished to the right standard — a scratched worktop, a door that won’t close flush, missing sealant, paint splashes, or a radiator that leaks. New builds almost always have some; the National House Building Council (NHBC) and most warranties expect you to report defects, typically within a defined period after completion. The key is to be thorough, put everything in writing, and back it up with photos. A clear, documented snag list gets taken far more seriously than a handful of texts.
When should you snag?
- Pre-completion inspection — if your developer offers one, use it. Report snags before you move in.
- At handover / first few days — walk every room methodically while it’s empty and clean.
- Within the first weeks and the defects period — new issues appear as the house settles. Keep reporting them.
How to snag effectively
- Photograph everything. A photo of each snag is your evidence — no arguments later.
- Be specific about location. “Chip on kitchen worktop, left of the sink” beats “worktop damaged”.
- Go methodically, room by room. Don’t rely on memory — you’ll miss things.
- Report in writing with a dated, itemised list (ideally a PDF), and keep a copy.
Get SnagMaster free
The room-by-room snagging checklist
Outside & approach
- Brickwork and render — cracks, staining, mortar gaps, mismatched bricks
- Driveway and paths — level, no ponding, no cracked slabs
- Guttering, downpipes and fascias — secure, no gaps, draining correctly
- External doors — open/close smoothly, seal properly, locks work
- Outside taps, drains and manhole covers — present and secure
Windows & doors (every room)
- Open, close and lock smoothly; keys provided
- No scratches or cracks in glass; trickle vents fitted
- Even gaps around frames; sealant neat and complete
- Handles secure; doors close flush without catching
Kitchen
- Worktops — no chips, scratches or lifting joints
- Units and drawers — aligned, soft-close working, no damage
- Appliances — installed, working, instructions provided
- Sink and taps — no leaks, good pressure, sealant neat
- Tiling and splashbacks — even grout, no cracked tiles
- Extractor fan — works and vents properly
Bathrooms & en-suites
- Bath, basin, shower and toilet — no chips; secure; flush and drain properly
- Sealant around bath/shower — continuous and mould-free
- Shower — good pressure, screen seals, no leaks onto the floor
- Extractor fan works; tiles and grout are sound
Living areas & bedrooms
- Walls and ceilings — no cracks, dents, or visible plaster lines; paint even
- Skirting and architrave — fixed, gap-free, neatly painted
- Floors — level, no squeaks or lifting; carpet/laminate well finished
- Sockets and switches — straight, working, enough of them
- Radiators — secure, heat evenly, no leaks or air locks
Hallway, stairs & landing
- Banister and spindles — secure, no gaps wider than regulations allow
- Stair treads — level, no squeaks, carpet well fitted
- Smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms — fitted and working
Loft, roof & services
- Loft — insulated, boarded where expected, no daylight through the roof
- Boiler and hot water — working, serviced, paperwork provided
- Consumer unit (fuse box) — labelled; electrical certificate provided
- Water pressure good throughout; no leaks under sinks
Garden & external areas
- Fencing and gates — secure and complete
- Turf/patio laid as promised; no builder’s debris left behind
- Outside lighting and sockets work
What to do with your snag list
Send your itemised, photographed list to the developer in writing and keep a dated copy. Follow up if you don’t hear back, and re-report anything that appears later during the defects period. A clear PDF report — with a photo and location for each snag — makes it easy for the site team to action, and easy for you to prove what was reported and when.
Try SnagMaster