Snagging Survey IV9 (Inverness)

A snagging survey provides a detailed inspection of your new-build property, identifying defects in finishes, fittings, and building systems. Our surveyor examines walls, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, kitchen units, bathroom fixtures, electrical systems, plumbing, and the external envelope including roofs, gutters, and render. Every defect is photographed, numbered, and categorized by severity with clear remediation recommendations. We also check operational aspects like door and window operation, tap flow rates, and extractor fan function. The survey is visual and non-invasive, examining what is readily accessible without removing finishes or disturbing fixtures.

Snagging survey pricing in IV9 starts from approximately £350 for a typical three-bedroom property, with larger homes or complex developments requiring more detailed inspection at higher cost. The investment is modest compared to the average value of properties in the area, which stand at over £302,000, and the potential cost of remediating undocumented defects. Given that industry research suggests new-builds typically have 100-200 snagging items, with some requiring remediation costs of several thousand pounds, the survey fee represents excellent value for protecting your substantial investment.

The ideal time to book your snagging survey is before your legal completion date when you still have leverage with the developer. However, you can schedule the inspection any time before the builder's warranty period expires, though addressing issues sooner is preferable. We recommend booking 1-2 weeks before your planned move-in date to allow time for the report and subsequent negotiations with the developer. Many buyers arrange their survey for the week before they expect to receive the keys, giving the surveyor time to complete the inspection and produce the report before the handover appointment.

Your new-build comes with a builder's warranty, typically through NHBC, LABC, or another provider, which obligates the developer to address defects that appear within the warranty period. Our detailed report provides the documentation needed to make a formal complaint under the warranty scheme. Most reputable builders will rectify issues identified in our survey, particularly when presented with professional evidence. The warranty provider can require the developer to remediate valid defects if they refuse to act, and our comprehensive documentation strengthens your position in any such dispute.

Yes, we actively encourage homeowners to attend the inspection. Being present allows you to see defects firsthand, ask questions about maintenance and care, and understand the severity of issues found. Your participation ensures you fully understand the report findings and can prioritise which issues to raise with the developer first. Many clients find it helpful to walk around with the surveyor, taking notes and photographs themselves while the inspection is underway. This involvement helps you understand the scope of issues found and gives you confidence in the thoroughness of the survey.

If your builder refuses to address legitimate defects identified in our survey, you can escalate the matter through the warranty provider's dispute resolution process. Our comprehensive documentation strengthens your case significantly, providing dated photographic evidence of each defect with clear severity ratings and remediation recommendations. Many disputes are resolved through this formal procedure, and the warranty provider can require the developer to remediate valid defects. In cases where the developer has ceased trading, the warranty provider may step in directly to arrange remediation. Our reports are formatted to meet the documentation requirements of major warranty providers including NHBC and LABC.

A typical snagging survey for a three-bedroom house takes between 2-4 hours, depending on the property size, construction type, and number of defects found. Larger properties or those with complex layouts may require additional time. Our surveyors work methodically through their checklist, which means they may spend longer on properties with significant defect populations, but this thorough approach ensures nothing is missed. After the inspection, you will receive your detailed report within 48 hours.

A snagging survey focuses specifically on defects and finishing issues in new-build properties, concentrating on items the builder is responsible for rectifying under their warranty obligations. A RICS Level 2 or Level 3 survey provides a broader assessment of the property's condition including its structure, construction, and any existing defects or potential problems. For new-build properties, many buyers choose to have both surveys, with the snagging survey focusing on handover defects while the RICS survey assesses overall condition and any issues that may be covered by structural warranties. The Level 3 survey is particularly valuable for newly constructed homes as it provides a professional assessment of construction quality and compliance with building regulations.