Snagging Survey in Hastings

Our snagging inspections cover over 200 individual check points across every accessible area of your new build property. We start externally, examining the roof tiles and coverings, chimney stacks, fascias and soffits, gutters and downpipes, and the overall external wall finish. In Hastings, where properties face exposure to coastal weather conditions, we pay particular attention to the integrity of external sealants and the condition of any rendered finishes, as these areas are particularly vulnerable to wind-driven rain and salt air degradation.

Internally, our inspectors examine the condition of all plasterwork and drywall finishes, checking for cracks, uneven surfaces, and areas of poor adhesion. We test all doors and windows for proper operation, alignment, and seal integrity. Electrical fixtures and fittings are visually inspected, with socket faces checked for damage and proper positioning. Plumbing is tested where possible, looking for leaks, poor connections, and adequate water pressure. We also examine the condition of kitchen units, bathroom fittings, and any built-in wardrobes or storage.

Our team pays special attention to areas that commonly cause problems in new builds. In Hastings properties, we've frequently identified issues with extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens that are either missing, incorrectly fitted, or venting into loft spaces rather than externally. We check all sealant joints around windows, doors, and wet areas, as incomplete or poorly applied sealant is one of the most common defects we find. Floor levels and transitions between room types are measured and compared against tolerances, as unlevel floors can indicate subsidence issues or poor construction practice.

The geological conditions beneath Hastings warrant particular attention during our inspections. The underlying Hastings Beds, including the Wadhurst Clay Formation, contain clay deposits that can cause ground movement through shrink-swell cycles. While new builds should be designed with these conditions in mind, our inspectors are trained to look for signs of movement that might manifest as cracking in plasterwork, doors that bind, or gaps around window frames.

• Roof and loft structure
• Wall and ceiling plasterwork
• Windows and door operation
• Electrical and plumbing systems
• Kitchen and bathroom fixtures
• Damp proofing installation
• Drainage and guttering
• Fire safety installations

The Hastings new build market has grown significantly over the past decade, with developers constructing properties across the town and surrounding areas to meet demand from buyers attracted to the coastal lifestyle and relatively affordable property prices compared to nearby Brighton. However, the rapid pace of construction, combined with shortages of skilled tradespeople in the region, has led to quality control issues in some developments. Our experience shows that even properties built by reputable national developers can have significant defect lists when subjected to thorough inspection.

The geological conditions in parts of the Hastings area also warrant attention during new build surveys. The underlying clay deposits, particularly the Wadhurst Clay Formation within the Hastings Beds, can cause ground movement that affects foundations. While new builds should be designed with these conditions in mind, our inspectors are trained to look for signs of movement or inadequate foundation design that might manifest as cracking or door operation issues. Additionally, the coastal exposure means that properties require robust weatherproofing details that are sometimes incorrectly installed or omitted entirely.

Many buyers in Hastings are purchasing their first home through government schemes such as Help to Buy or shared ownership. If you're using one of these schemes, your mortgage provider or housing association may require a snagging survey as part of their due diligence. Even if not mandatory, a snagging survey provides valuable protection for your investment and ensures that the property you're committing to is of acceptable quality. The cost of a snagging survey is minimal compared to the potential expense of rectifying defects yourself if issues emerge after you've moved in.

Coastal flooding and surface water drainage are also important considerations for new build properties in certain areas of Hastings. The Combe Haven Valley to the west of the town represents a known flood plain, and low-lying areas near the seafront can be susceptible to tidal surge events. Our inspectors check that drainage systems have been properly installed with adequate falls away from foundations, as poor drainage in combination with the local clay soil conditions can lead to damp issues and subsidence movement over time.