New Build Snagging Survey March, Fenland

A snagging survey is a detailed inspection specifically designed for new build properties, typically carried out before the defects period expires or within the first two years of occupation. Our inspectors examine over 100 individual defect areas, categorising issues by severity and providing you with a comprehensive report to present to your builder or developer. The inspection covers both the interior and exterior of the property, including all fixtures, fittings, and finishes that should be completed to a professional standard.

During our inspection, we check critical areas including walls and ceilings for cracks or poor plasterwork, windows and doors for proper operation and sealing, flooring for levelness and finish quality, and kitchen and bathroom installations for functionality. We also examine the external envelope of the property, looking at roof tiles, brickwork, pointing, gutters, and drainage. Our report includes photographic evidence of every defect found, along with recommendations for remedial works and estimated costs where possible.

For properties in March, our inspectors pay particular attention to issues relevant to the local area. The Fenland region is known for its peat-based soil, which can lead to ground movement and subsidence issues if foundations are not properly designed. We check for signs of structural stress that may indicate problems with the property's foundations or the underlying ground conditions. Additionally, given March's proximity to the River Nene and the area's history of surface water flooding, we assess any flood-related damage or potential risk factors that may have been overlooked during the build process.

The geology of the Fens presents unique challenges for builders working in this area. Properties constructed on peat and alluvial deposits require specially designed foundations to accommodate ground movement, and our inspectors are experienced in identifying signs of subsidence, heave, or structural movement that may indicate foundation issues. We also check for damp problems, which can be particularly prevalent in newer properties if damp-proof courses are not properly installed or if ventilation is inadequate. This attention to local conditions sets our March snagging surveys apart from generic inspections.

• Interior walls and ceilings
• Windows and doors
• Kitchen and bathroom fixtures
• Electrical and plumbing rough-ins
• Flooring and tiling
• Roof and loft space
• External walls and pointing
• Gutters and drainage systems

Our experience inspecting new builds in March and across Cambridgeshire reveals several recurring defect patterns. Poorly finished plasterwork ranks among the most common issues, with walls and ceilings often showing signs of uneven surfaces, cracks at wall-ceiling junctions, or incomplete sanding before decoration. Internal doors frequently suffer from ill-fitting frames, sticking operation, or inadequate sealing around frames. These issues may seem minor but can affect the overall finish and functionality of your home.

Incomplete sealant work is another widespread problem, particularly around wet areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. Gaps between shower trays and walls, around windows, and at floor perimeters can allow moisture ingress that leads to damp problems over time. This is especially relevant for March properties given the local climate and potential for condensation in poorly ventilated new builds. Our inspectors systematically check all sealant points and document any gaps or deterioration. The prevalence of peat-based soils in the Fens means that moisture management is particularly important to prevent damp-related issues that could compound existing ground movement concerns.

External defects are equally common and can have significant implications if left unaddressed. We frequently find issues with roof tile alignment, missing or damaged ridge tiles, and inadequate pointing that could allow water penetration. Guttering and drainage systems often have incorrect fall angles, leading to standing water or overflow during heavy rainfall. Given March's flood risk profile from the River Nene and surface water, ensuring proper drainage around your property is essential. Our snagging reports provide your builder with a comprehensive list of external issues to rectify before they develop into more serious problems.

Electrical and plumbing rough-ins also require careful inspection. We check that socket positions meet current regulations, that consumer units are properly labelled, and that plumbing connections are secure and leak-free. Given that March has seen significant new development in recent years, ensuring that these critical systems are correctly installed protects your safety and avoids costly remedial work later. Our detailed reports include photographic evidence of all defects, making it straightforward for your builder to identify and address each issue.