A new layer of paint may cover up many problems of a property! That shiny new flat or house may have leaking pipes, uneven tiles, or malfunctioning switches, most of which you may miss during a quick visit. If you hire a snagging company before taking over, a professional will carefully check all nooks and crannies while the builder does the repair work.

Planning a handover inspection? See our property snagging in Dubai service, or our home snagging company in Dubai page.

Further in this blog, we will explain what snagging is, why its timing is so important, and what happens on the day of inspection. Keep reading till the end, as you will get answers to all of the questions in this post.

Snagging Inspection 101: Two Terms Worth Knowing

Snag

The term snag refers to any imperfection, fault, or unfinished element of any new construction. Snags can be cosmetic (for example, a paint splatter or a damaged countertop) or functional (for example, a door that cannot be shut or a shower that drains slowly). Whether they are minor or major does not change the fact that they exist.

Pre-Handover Snagging Inspection

It is the inspection of the property done by an expert before you receive the keys for your property. The inspector checks the finishes, fittings, plumbing, electricity, and air conditioning of the house and writes down all the problems in the report. These issues must be dealt with by the developer before the transfer is complete.

Why a Snagging Inspection Before Handover Matters

Repairs Stay on the Developer's Bill

Before taking possession of the unit, it is the developer's responsibility to fix defects. After signing and taking possession of the property, it becomes increasingly challenging to prove that an issue existed prior to that time, which may force the owner to cover some repairs out of their own pocket.

You Have a Better Bargaining Position

A report made by an expert provides evidence of everything with photographs and specific locations, and builders will respond to specific requests more easily than to general complaints. It can also be a basis for delaying acceptance of the keys till the completion of all the improvement works.

Problems Behind the Walls Get Found

There are problems that are not visible to the untrained eye. Inspectors use thermal imaging cameras, moisture metres and electrical testers to detect leaks, poor insulation or improper wiring. Identifying these early on will protect your family’s safety and help you avoid expensive repairs months after you move in.

Inspection Day: How a Snagging Inspection Unfolds

The inspection involves going through every single room and thoroughly checking out taps, switches, doors, windows, and air conditioning systems, which takes two to five hours depending on the size of the space. You receive a report along with images from the inspector within a couple of days. After the developer has completed the repairs, the inspector goes back and follows up.

Quick Snagging Inspection Checklist: What Gets Checked

• Walls, ceilings and paint finish
• Floor and wall tiles, including grout
• Doors, windows and locks
• Plumbing, drainage and water pressure
• Sockets, switches and lighting
• Air conditioning performance
• Kitchen cabinets and appliances
• Balcony waterproofing and railings

The Final Walkthrough on Your Snagging Inspection

Your new home should give you joy rather than feeling like just another repair project. The thorough pre-handover inspection can convert hidden defects into a simple to-do list for the developers so that you don’t have to bear the cost of fixing them. As a result, your budget, peace of mind, and safety are secured on moving day. Therefore, using the services of a proven snagging company means getting competent personnel, quality tools, and a report that the developer takes seriously.

FAQs

Is a snagging inspection beneficial for a new property?

Definitely. Properties that are newly built tend to be full of defects since the work is rushed at the end of the process. This means that the small fee that you pay to the snagging company will help save you a lot of repair costs in the future.

Should I be present in the property during the inspection?

Yes. This will help you see defects firsthand, get answers to all of your questions, and find out which problems require immediate attention and which ones are something not to worry about.

Can you carry out snagging on a resale property?

Yes. The snagging process can be done to older properties too, helping identify all defects and maintenance issues that took place before you buy the property.

What if the developer does not react to the report?

Keep a written record of all communications with developers. Take legal action if required, based on your sale agreement and property regulation laws.

How many defects can you expect in your property?

They vary a lot, from several dozen to several hundred, but a majority of them are minor.