New Build Snagging Survey KA6

Our inspectors work to rigorous RICS standards, examining every accessible area of your new-build property. We start with the fundamentals: checking that all walls are plumb, ceilings are level, and floors don't have soft spots or unevenness. In KA6 properties, we pay particular attention to moisture levels in recently plastered walls, as improper drying can lead to damp issues down the line. Our team documents everything with detailed photographs and measurements that form the backbone of your final report.

We examine all doors and windows for proper operation, checking that they open and close smoothly, seal correctly, and don't have scratches or damage from the construction process. Ill-fitting doors are one of the most common issues we find in new builds across Ayrshire, particularly in properties where timber frames may have been exposed to moisture during the building process. We test every electrical socket, light switch, and fixture to ensure they work correctly and are safely installed. Plumbing gets a full workout too - we run taps, flush toilets, and check for leaks under sinks and around bathrooms.

Beyond the basics, our snagging survey checks the quality of finishes throughout your property. This includes examining paintwork for runs, missed spots, or uneven coverage, inspecting tiling for cracked or loose tiles and improper grouting, and checking carpet fitting for seams and edge finishes. We also examine kitchen units and worktops for damage, proper alignment, and secure installation. Any cosmetic defects we find get logged with precise locations so the developer knows exactly what needs rectifying. We pay special attention to extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens, as poor installation can lead to condensation problems in KA6's variable climate.

Our exterior inspection covers roof tiles, gutters, downpipes, and render finishes. Given KA6's exposure to Atlantic weather systems, we check specifically for signs of water ingress, improperly fixed tiles, and drainage issues that could cause problems during heavy rainfall. We also examine the boundary treatments, driveways, and any landscaping that should have been completed as part of your purchase agreement.

• Wall and ceiling alignment
• Door and window operation
• Electrical socket testing
• Plumbing and drainage checks
• Paintwork and finishing quality
• Kitchen and bathroom fixtures
• Flooring and carpet fitting
• External walls and roofline

Our inspectors typically discover between 80 and 250 individual defects in a typical new-build property, depending on the size and quality of construction. In KA6 properties, certain issues appear more frequently than others. Poorly finished plasterwork ranks at the top of the list - we consistently find cracks around door frames, uneven plaster coverage, and areas where the finish doesn't meet expected standards. These issues often become more apparent once the property is heated and the plaster dries further, which is particularly relevant as we approach winter months.

Ill-fitting doors and windows represent another major category of defects. We frequently encounter doors that stick, don't close properly, or have visible gaps around the frames. Window operation can be problematic, with some failing to seal correctly - a particular concern given KA6's exposure to Atlantic weather systems. Draughts and water ingress can result from poor installation, leading to increased energy costs and potential damp problems. Our inspectors test every opening window and door to ensure proper function before you discover the issues during the first storm.

Incomplete or inadequate sealant appears constantly in our reports. Around windows, in bathrooms, and at kitchen worktop junctions, missing or poorly applied sealant creates potential water penetration paths. We also commonly find drainage issues - slow-draining sinks and showers often indicate blocked or poorly installed pipework. On the exterior, we check roof tiles for alignment, gutters for proper fall, and render for cracks or damage. Any landscaping that's supposed to be completed as part of the purchase agreement gets documented too, as developers frequently leave these areas unfinished.

Electrical defects are more common than many buyers expect. We regularly find sockets that don't work, light switches that are installed incorrectly, and extractor fans that vent into void spaces rather than externally. These issues pose safety risks and should be identified before you move in. Similarly, plumbing problems such as low water pressure, noisy pipes, or poorly connected waste fittings can significantly impact your daily life if left unaddressed.

• Plaster cracks and uneven finishes
• Door and window alignment issues
• Incomplete sealant application
• Drainage and plumbing problems
• Electrical fixture defects
• Kitchen unit damage or misalignment
• External render and cladding issues
• Missing or incomplete landscaping

Most new-build properties in KA6 come with coverage through NHBC Buildmark, LABC Warranty, or Premier Guarantee. These warranty providers have specific standards that developers must meet, and your snagging survey report provides documented evidence if those standards haven't been achieved. Understanding your warranty terms gives you additional leverage when requesting rectifications from the developer, and our reports are specifically formatted to support warranty claims if needed.

NHBC Buildmark remains the most common warranty provider for new homes across the UK, including Ayrshire. Their technical standards cover everything from structural elements to finishing quality. If the developer fails to address defects identified in your snagging report, you can escalate the matter through NHBC's dispute resolution service. Our reports are formatted to align with warranty provider requirements, making this process straightforward if needed. We understand exactly what documentation warranty providers look for when assessing a claim.

that warranty coverage typically begins from the date of legal completion, not when you receive the keys. Some defects may not be immediately apparent - issues with damp proofing, for instance, can take months to manifest. That's why we recommend a follow-up inspection at around 11 months, just before your first-year warranty milestone. Many homeowners discover defects that have emerged over the first year of living in the property, and our follow-up survey ensures these get documented before warranty expiry. The cost of this follow-up inspection is modest compared to the potential expense of uncovered remedial work.