Top 10 Common Snags Found in East of England New Build Property Inspections

Introduction

When moving into a new build property, it is essential to ensure that your home is free from defects or issues that may compromise its quality and value. That's where snagging inspections come into play. As a homeowner in the East of England, it is important to be familiar with the most common snags found during new build property inspections. This knowledge will empower you to resolve any potential issues efficiently and effectively.

In this article, we will highlight the top 10 most common snags discovered during snagging surveys in the East of England, along with valuable tips on how to address these issues. By acting on this information, you'll ensure your new build property stands up to the test of time, providing you with a safe and comfortable living environment. Let Holme Snaggers and our team of experts provide you with the guidance needed to put your new home's best foot forward.

1. Cracks and Gaps in Plasterwork

One of the most common snags in new build properties is substandard plasterwork, leading to visible cracks or gaps. These defects can form around window frames, doors, and ceilings or between walls and skirting boards.

How to address: Consult with your developer or builder to repair any cracks or gaps promptly. This may involve professional plasterers applying a high-quality skim coat to ensure that the surfaces achieve a seamless finish.

2. Poorly Installed Windows and Doors

Ill-fitted windows and doors can lead to air infiltration, excessive noise, and even security risks. Insufficient sealing around window and door frames is another concern, as this can result in increased energy costs and potential water ingress.

How to address: Request your developer to rectify any poorly installed windows and doors by realigning, adjusting or resealing them as needed. This ensures your home remains energy-efficient, secure, and comfortable.

3. Inadequate Insulation

Insulation plays a key role in a building's energy efficiency, regulating heat retention and loss. If your new build property has insufficient insulation in the walls, floors or roof space, it may be less energy-efficient and harder to heat during colder months, leading to increased heating bills.

How to address: Contact your developer to verify the insulation materials used during construction and ensure proper installation. If necessary, request additional insulation to comply with building regulations and optimise your home's thermal performance.

4. Plumbing Issues

Common plumbing snags include leaky pipes, loose fixtures, poor water pressure, and drainage problems. These issues can lead to water damage, mould growth, and inefficient water usage in your property.

How to address: Enlist a professional plumber to inspect and rectify any plumbing defects as soon as possible. Adequate repairs and maintenance will prevent potential issues from escalating into costly damage and promote efficient water usage.

5. Roofing Problems

Many new build properties experience roofing issues, such as loose or missing tiles, poor flashing installation, and inadequate ventilation.

How to address: Hire a professional roofer to conduct a thorough inspection and correct any problems. Properly maintaining the roof will ensure your property's longevity and prevent water ingress and damage.

6. Faulty Electrics

Electrical snags can pose a hazard to your home and its occupants. Common electrical defects include incorrectly wired fixtures, insufficient or misplaced power points, and malfunctioning lighting systems.

How to address: Engage a certified electrician to inspect the electrical systems and resolve any faults. Timely intervention will safeguard your new build property and adhere to the UK's electric safety regulations.

7. Misaligned Brickwork and Mortar Joints

Poorly aligned brickwork and uneven mortar joints can affect the overall aesthetics and structural stability of your new build property.

How to address: Request your developer to rectify any skewed brickwork or uneven mortar joints. A smooth and uniform finish provides both a visual appeal and structural integrity to your home.

8. Flooring Defects

Flooring defects can range from squeaky floorboards and uneven surfaces to improperly installed tiles or damaged carpeting.

How to address: Consult with your developer to correct any flooring defects, ensuring your new build property has a solid foundation, along with the desired aesthetic and comfort.

9. Poor Ventilation

Inadequate ventilation can lead to a myriad of issues: dampness, mould, and condensation, affecting the air quality and structural integrity of your property.

How to address: Collaborate with your developer to investigate the cause of poor ventilation and implement appropriate measures, such as installing extractor fans, ensuring air bricks are unobstructed, and maintaining efficient heating systems.

10. External Landscaping Issues

While not an immediate threat to the structure of your home, poorly executed landscaping can affect the appearance, functionality, and drainage of your outdoor spaces.

How to address: Advocate for your developer to address any landscaping issues, such as uneven paving, poorly laid turf, or inadequate planting, ensuring your property's exterior looks as great as the interior.

Keeping a Snag-Free New Build Property: Tips and Best Practices

To minimise the likelihood of snags in your new build property or ensure existing issues are dealt with efficiently, consider the following tips:

1. Involve yourself in the construction process: Stay informed and up-to-date on the building progress, maintaining open communication with your developer and builder.

2. Conduct thorough and timely inspections: Arrange regular site visits and snagging inspections during the construction phase to identify and rectify issues before they escalate.

3. Hire a professional snagging company: A reputable snagging company, such as Holme Snaggers, offers expert knowledge and experience in identifying and addressing common snags in new build properties.

By remaining proactive and informed about potential issues in new build properties in the East of England, homeowners can better manage and address snags, ensuring a high-quality home and a smooth construction process.

Take Control of Your New Build's Quality with Holme Snaggers

It is essential for homeowners in the East of England to be aware of the top 10 common snags found during new build property inspections. With this knowledge, you are better equipped to address any issues proactively and ensure your home remains structurally sound, safe, and visually appealing. By staying involved in the construction process, conducting thorough inspections, and enlisting the expertise of a professional snagging company, you will better safeguard your property's quality and value.

Choose Holme Snaggers for comprehensive snagging inspections tailored specifically for your new build property in the East of England. Our dedication to providing a seamless service and unmatched expertise ensures that your new home is built to last.

Book your expert snagging inspection with Holme Snaggers now and be confident in the quality of your new home. We would particularly like to speak to you if you are moving in to the Hampton Woods, Alconbury Weald or Wintringham developments as they are very near to us geographically.