New Build Snagging Survey Solihull

Our snagging surveys are designed to identify both cosmetic defects and more serious structural issues that may not be visible to the untrained eye. During a typical inspection, our surveyors examine every room, the exterior walls, roof space, plumbing installations, electrical fittings, and the overall structural integrity of the property. In Solihull's newer developments, we frequently encounter issues such as poorly finished plasterwork, ill-fitting doors and windows, incomplete sealant around wet areas, and drainage problems that could lead to damp if left untreated. Our inspectors systematically work through each room, documenting defects with photographs and precise location references.

Given Solihull's geology, which features Mercia Mudstone with moderate to high shrink-swell potential, our inspectors pay particular attention to foundation-related issues. While new builds typically have modern foundations, we check for signs of movement, cracking, or differential settlement that could indicate problems with the ground conditions. This is especially important in areas with mature trees near newer developments, where soil moisture changes can cause clay shrinkage. Additionally, we examine the cavity wall construction common in Bellway and Taylor Wimpey properties, looking for defects in the insulation, wall ties, and damp proof courses that could affect the long-term performance of the building envelope. Properties near the River Blythe require additional attention to drainage and flood prevention measures.

The typical snagging inspection takes between two and four hours depending on the size and complexity of the property. For a standard three-bedroom house in areas like Shirley or Earlswood, our inspectors typically identify between 100 and 200 individual defects ranging from minor cosmetic issues to more significant problems requiring immediate attention. Larger detached properties, such as those at Copt Heath Wharf where prices range up to £1.1 million, often reveal even more defects due to their complexity and the higher expectations of buyers at that price point. Our thorough approach ensures nothing is missed, from missing door handles to serious structural concerns.

• Cosmetic defects (paintwork, plaster, fixtures)
• Plumbing and drainage issues
• Electrical safety concerns
• Window and door operation
• Damp and condensation problems
• Structural defects and cracking

Based on our experience inspecting properties across Solihull, certain defects recur frequently in newly constructed homes. Cosmetic issues such as poorly applied paint, uneven plaster finishes, and damaged skirting boards are encountered on virtually every inspection. Doors and windows frequently suffer from improper fitting, leading to drafts, difficulty closing, or visible gaps around frames. These issues not only affect the appearance of your home but can also impact energy efficiency and security. Our reports document each defect with precise location details, making it easy for developers to locate and repair issues.

Plumbing and drainage problems represent another significant category of defects in Solihull's new builds. Our inspectors regularly find poorly connected waste pipes, incomplete sealing around baths and showers, and inadequate water pressure in taps and showers. Given the Mercia Mudstone geology underlying much of Solihull, proper drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging and subsequent subsidence issues. We pay particular attention to gradient and fall on external drainage, ensuring water flows away from the property rather than pooling near foundations. Properties in low-lying areas near the River Blythe require especially careful drainage inspection due to elevated flood risk.

Electrical defects pose both safety risks and legal implications. We frequently identify missing faceplates on sockets, improperly terminated wiring in consumer units, and RCD sockets that fail to trip when tested. These issues must be addressed immediately for your safety. Our electrical assessments include visual inspection of the consumer unit, socket positions, light fittings, and verification of adequate earthing. Any potentially dangerous installations are flagged as urgent items requiring immediate attention from a qualified electrician. We also check that sufficient socket outlets have been provided in each room according to current building regulations.

Ventilation issues are increasingly common in new-build properties across Solihull. Modern energy-efficient homes are built to be airtight, but this can lead to problems with condensation and mould if adequate ventilation is not provided. Our inspectors check extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens, inspect trickle vents in windows, and assess whether the property has sufficient background ventilation. Poor ventilation can cause significant problems over time, including damage to fixtures and fittings and potential health issues for occupants. We ensure your new home has adequate air movement to prevent these issues.

• Paint and plaster defects
• Door and window operation
• Plumbing leaks and blockages
• Electrical safety issues
• Damp and condensation
• Missing or damaged sealants

Most new-build properties in Solihull are covered by the NHBC Buildmark warranty, which provides essential protection for homeowners against defects. The warranty typically covers the first two years for all defects, known as the initial period, where the builder is responsible for rectifying any issues discovered. After this initial period, the warranty continues to cover structural defects for up to ten years, protecting you against major problems with foundations, walls, roofs, and other structural elements. Understanding your warranty rights is crucial for ensuring defects are properly addressed.

Our snagging reports are specifically designed to support warranty claims with NHBC or other providers such as LABC Warranty and Premier Guarantee. We document defects thoroughly with photographs, precise descriptions, and location details that meet the documentation requirements for warranty claims. If your developer fails to respond satisfactorily to identified issues, we can guide you through the process of making a formal claim through your warranty provider. The NHBC has a dedicated claims process that can result in remediation work being carried out or compensation paid if the builder is no longer trading.

that some developers in the Solihull area have received complaints regarding response times to snagging list items, particularly during busy periods when multiple properties are completing simultaneously. Having a professional snagging report from our inspectors provides you with documented evidence of defects at the time of inspection, which can be crucial if disputes arise later. We recommend scheduling your snagging survey as close to your completion date as possible to capture any issues that may have occurred during the final building stages.