Snagging Survey — Independent New Build Inspections
Buying a new build property is one of the most significant financial decisions you will make. But new does not mean perfect. Gibsons Surveyors provides independent snagging surveys for new build buyers across Essex, London, and the Home Counties — giving you a professional, photographic defect report to present to your developer before or after legal completion.
What Is a Snagging Survey?
A snagging survey is a detailed inspection of a new build property carried out by a qualified RICS surveyor. It identifies defects, poor workmanship, incomplete finishes, and items that fall below the required standard — from cosmetic issues through to more significant structural or services defects. The result is a comprehensive photographic snagging list that gives you independent professional evidence to put to your developer and require rectification.
When Should You Get a Snagging Survey?
Ideally before legal completion — this gives you the strongest position to require the developer to address defects before you take ownership. Many developers do not permit access before completion, in which case the survey should be carried out as soon as possible after you move in, while the developer is still on site and obligated under their warranty. Do not leave it — defects become progressively harder to get rectified the longer you wait after completion.
Does a New Build Warranty Cover Everything?
Most new builds come with an NHBC Buildmark warranty or equivalent, covering structural defects for ten years and builder defects for the first two years. However, a warranty is not a substitute for an independent snagging survey. The warranty only covers defects that are formally reported and accepted — an independent surveyor will identify significantly more items than a buyer inspecting alone, and a professional snagging report carries far more weight with a developer than an informal complaint.
Why Choose Gibsons Surveyors?
All snagging surveys at Gibsons Surveyors are carried out by Andrew Gibson BSc (Hons) MRICS, a fully qualified Chartered Surveyor with extensive experience across new build and conventional residential property. Our reports are detailed, photographic, and produced in a clear format suitable for presenting directly to your developer or housing association. We are independent of developers, house builders, and warranty providers — our only obligation is to you.
Areas Covered
Gibsons Surveyors provides snagging surveys across Essex and Greater London, covering major new build developments in Basildon, Brentwood, Chelmsford, Epping, Thurrock, Harlow, Southend-on-Sea, and surrounding areas, as well as new build developments across East, North, West, and South London boroughs. Contact us to confirm availability for your specific development.