Snagging Survey in EX16 (Tiverton)

The EX16 area has seen steady new-build activity over recent years, with small-scale developments and infill projects continuing to bring new properties to the market. Even though large national volume housebuilders are not currently active with major sites within the postcode, local developers and regional builders are delivering new homes that require the same level of scrutiny. A snagging survey is your opportunity to identify defects before you complete on your purchase, giving you leverage to request the builder addresses these issues at no additional cost to you.

Our inspectors in the Tiverton area typically find between 100 and 200 individual snags in a standard new-build property. These range from minor cosmetic issues like poorly finished paintwork and ill-fitting door architraves to more significant problems such as incomplete damp proof courses, poorly installed windows, and drainage issues that could lead to future damp problems. In the clay and mudstone geology common around Tiverton, proper drainage is particularly important, and our inspectors pay close attention to groundworks and external fall away from the property.

The historic core of Tiverton presents unique considerations for new-build properties in the area. While most modern developments use traditional brick and block construction, some conversions and infill projects may involve working with or around older structures. Our snagging surveys check not only the new elements but also ensure that any interfacing work has been carried out properly. We also note any issues relating to the NHBC or other warranty provider requirements, ensuring your guarantee remains valid.

Flood risk is another consideration for properties in certain parts of the EX16 area. Tiverton has localized flood risk from the River Exe and smaller watercourses like Cottey Brook, particularly in low-lying areas. While most new-build developments are positioned outside high-risk flood zones, our inspectors check that ground levels, drainage, and external works have been properly implemented to mitigate potential flooding issues.

• Cosmetic defects (paint, plaster, joinery)
• Window and door installation issues
• Drainage and external works defects
• Electrical and plumbing rough-ins
• Damp proofing and ventilation problems
• Structural cracks and movement

Properties built in the EX16 area predominantly use traditional brick and block construction methods, which is typical for the South West region. The local geology of claystone and mudstone influences foundation design, and most new-build properties in the area will have either strip foundations or wider pad foundations designed to accommodate the potentially reactive clay ground. Our inspectors understand these construction methods and check that foundations have been properly installed and that any movement has not caused cracking or structural issues.

Tiverton town centre contains significant concentrations of listed buildings and designated conservation areas, which means some new-build projects in the vicinity may involve working with or around older structures. Whether it is an infill development between period properties or a conversion of a historic commercial building, our snagging surveys check that the interface between new and existing structures has been properly executed. We pay particular attention to damp proofing, wall ties, and structural connections where new work meets older fabric.

The Mid Devon district has seen several planning approvals for new housing in recent years, with properties typically covered by NHBC warranty or similar structural warranty providers. These warranty providers have specific standards that must be met, and our snagging surveys check compliance with these requirements. Whether your new-build is covered by NHBC, LABC, or Premier Guarantee, we ensure the property meets the required standards for your warranty to remain valid.

When our team surveys a new-build property in the EX16 area, we follow a systematic approach that covers every aspect of the construction and finish. We begin with the exterior, checking the roof tiles or covering for alignment and damage, examining the brickwork and rendering for cracks or subsidence, and assessing the drainage channels and gullies to ensure proper fall away from the building. The clay-rich soil around Tiverton means drainage is particularly important, and we often see issues with soakaways and surface water dispersal that need correcting.

Inside the property, we inspect all walls and ceilings for plaster defects, cracks, and signs of damp. We check that all doors and windows open and close properly, testing seals and handles. Our inspectors test every electrical socket and light switch, checking that they are properly wired and function correctly. We examine kitchen and bathroom installations, looking for poorly sealed worktops, misaligned units, and incomplete grouting around tiles.

We also pay attention to mechanical systems, checking that heating and hot water systems are properly installed and functioning. Ventilation is another key area, particularly in newer properties where air tightness is higher. Inadequate ventilation can lead to condensation and mould problems, which are particularly problematic in a climate like Devon where humidity can be high. Our inspectors check extractor fans, trickle vents, and any mechanical ventilation systems to ensure they are operating correctly.

The report we provide is designed to be used directly with your builder or developer. Each defect is numbered and clearly described, with an indication of whether it is a minor cosmetic issue or a more significant problem requiring specialist attention. We categorize items by priority, helping you understand which issues need immediate attention and which can wait until the defects inspection period. Many buyers in the Tiverton area have saved thousands of pounds by using our reports to negotiate corrections with developers.

While large-scale volume housebuilders are not currently active with major sites in the EX16 postcode, there continues to be new-build activity in the area through smaller developers and conversion projects. Recent developments in and around Tiverton have included infill housing schemes, conversions of commercial buildings to residential use, and small estate developments by regional builders. One example is St Georges Court in Tiverton, which represents the type of smaller-scale development that is common in the area. These properties still benefit from snagging surveys, as even smaller developers can leave defects that need addressing.

The Mid Devon district has seen several planning approvals for new housing in recent years, and the town of Tiverton continues to expand with new residential areas being developed on the outskirts. Properties in these newer developments will typically be covered by NHBC warranty or similar structural warranty providers, which have specific standards that must be met. Our snagging surveys check compliance with these standards, ensuring your investment is protected and that any issues that could void your warranty are identified.

If you are considering a new-build property in the wider EX16 area, including villages such as Cullompton, Willand, or the rural settlements around Tiverton, we can provide snagging surveys for these properties as well. Our coverage extends throughout the postcode area, and we are familiar with the types of construction and common issues seen in this region of Devon. Whether your property is a modern estate house or a converted barn in the surrounding countryside, our inspectors have the expertise to identify all relevant defects.