Snag lists are important tools for checking the quality of new properties. They help buyers make sure their new home meets expected standards. A snag list is a document that lists any problems or unfinished work in a newly built property. This article will explain how snag lists work and why they matter when buying a new home.
Key Points: Snag Lists in Property Transactions
- A snag list finds problems in a new property
- It helps make sure the property is safe and well-built
- Common things to check are the structure, electrical systems, plumbing, and finishes
- Getting an expert to do the inspection can be helpful
- Snag lists protect buyers and help them talk to builders about problems
- Planning retention services may be needed for unapproved changes
Understanding Snag Lists
Snag lists are used to check the quality of new buildings. They are usually made near the end of construction, before the buyer moves in. The main job of a snag list is to write down any problems or unfinished work that the builder needs to fix. This helps make sure that new buildings are well-made and follow the rules.
These lists can include all sorts of issues, from small paint problems to bigger structural issues. By making a detailed snag list, buyers can make sure they’re getting a home that’s as good as they expected. The list is an official record of what the property was like when it was handed over, which can be really useful if there are any arguments later.
What’s Included in a Snag List
A good snag list should look at all parts of the property. Here are the main things it should include:
1. Structure
This means checking for cracks in walls, ceilings, or floors, and making sure the whole building is sturdy. It’s important to check that all the structural parts meet building rules and are safe. Inspectors should look for signs that the building might be sinking or other big problems that could make the property unsafe over time.
2. Electrical and Plumbing Systems
All electrical outlets, switches, and appliances should be tested to make sure they work properly. This includes checking the main electrical box and making sure all the wiring is safe. Plumbing systems need to be checked for leaks and to make sure all taps, showers, and toilets work correctly. These systems are really important for everyday life in the home, so any problems should be fixed quickly.
3. Interior Finishes
This covers things like paint quality, tiling, plastering, and how well doors and windows fit. Paying attention to these details can make a big difference in how nice the property looks overall. Inspectors should look for uneven paint, gaps in tiles, badly finished plaster, and any problems with doors or windows not opening or closing properly.
4. Outside Features
The outside of the property, including the roof, gutters, and any garden work, should also be checked carefully. These parts are important for protecting the property from weather damage and making it look nice from the outside. Inspectors should check the roof for any missing or damaged tiles, make sure gutters are installed correctly, and check that any landscaping work has been done properly.
Structure
Check foundations, walls, and overall building
Electrical & Plumbing
Test outlets, switches, appliances, and pipes
Interior Finishes
Check paint, tiles, plaster, doors, and windows
Outside Features
Look at roof, gutters, and garden
How to Make a Snag List
Making and using a snag list involves several steps:
1. Walk Through the Property
The buyer or an expert inspector looks at every part of the property carefully. It’s important to check everything and write down even small problems. The inspector should go through each room, looking at walls, floors, ceilings, and all the fixtures. They should also check outside, including the roof and garden.
2. Write Down All the Problems
Each problem found should be clearly written down. This includes describing what’s wrong, where it is, and taking pictures if possible. Clear notes help avoid confusion and make sure all issues are fixed properly.
3. Make a Report
All the problems are put together in one big report. This report shows what condition the property is in and what work needs to be done. The report should be organized well, maybe going room by room or by type of problem (like structure, electrical, etc.).
4. Give the Report to the Builder
The finished snag list is given to the builder. This starts the process of fixing the problems. When giving the report, it’s important to be polite but clear about what needs to be fixed.
5. Check Again After Fixes
After the builder has fixed the problems, the property is checked again to make sure everything has been done right. This might need to be done a few times until everything is fixed properly.
Common Problems Found in Snag Lists
While every property is different, there are some problems that often show up on snag lists:
Structure problems, while not as common, are often the most serious. These can include cracks in walls or foundations, which might mean bigger issues. Some small cracks are normal in new buildings, but any cracks wider than 2mm or that seem to be getting bigger should be checked by an expert.
Electrical and plumbing problems happen more often and can range from small issues like loose outlets to bigger problems like faulty wiring or leaking pipes. Common electrical issues include switches or outlets that don’t work right, lights that flicker, or fuses that trip often. Plumbing problems might include low water pressure, sinks that drain slowly, or toilets that don’t flush properly.
Finishing and appearance problems are the most common things on snag lists. These can include paint that doesn’t look right, uneven tiles, or fixtures that don’t fit well. While these might seem small, they can really affect how nice the property looks and feels.
Outside problems often include issues with the roof, gutters, or unfinished garden work. These are important to fix because they can affect how well the property stands up to weather and how it looks from the outside.
Rules and Laws About Snag Lists
Snag lists help make sure that properties follow building rules. In Ireland, all new buildings must follow Building Regulations, which cover things like structure, fire safety, and energy efficiency. The snag list helps check that these rules have been followed before the buyer moves in.
Buyers have certain rights when it comes to the quality of their new property. The snag list is an official record of any problems, which can be really important if there are any arguments later. In Ireland, the Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1980 gives some protection to buyers, saying that goods (including property) must be of good quality and fit for their purpose.
Builders have to fix the problems found in a snag list, as long as it’s their job to do so. This is usually written in the sale contract and might also be covered by warranties. Most new buildings in Ireland come with a 10-year warranty for big structural problems. For other issues, the warranty might be shorter, often around two years.
It’s important to know that there are time limits for reporting problems in new buildings. In many cases, structural issues can be reported for up to 10 years, while other problems might have a shorter time limit. This is why it’s important to do a thorough check as soon as possible after the building is finished.
For those dealing with planning permission issues, planning retention services can help navigate the complex rules. These services can help make sure that all parts of the property follow local planning laws and building regulations.
Using Expert Inspectors for Snag Lists
While buyers can make their own snag lists, many choose to hire expert inspectors. These experts know a lot about buildings and can often find problems that others might miss. They know all about building standards and rules, so they can spot potential issues that a regular person might not see.
Expert inspectors usually have backgrounds in construction, engineering, or surveying. They know all about building regulations and industry standards, so they can give a full assessment of the property’s condition. Their expertise helps them tell the difference between normal settling in a new build and more serious structural issues.
When hiring an expert inspector, it’s important to choose someone with the right qualifications and experience. Look for inspectors who are members of professional groups like the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) or the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI).
An expert inspection usually involves a careful check of the whole property, inside and out. The inspector will check all major systems, including electrical, plumbing, and heating, as well as the structure and finishes. They will write down everything they find in detail, often including photos and suggestions for fixing any problems.
Cost of Snag List Inspections
Hiring an expert inspector for a snag list does cost money, but it’s usually worth it. The cost can vary depending on how big and complex the property is, where it is, and how detailed the inspection needs to be. In Ireland, an expert snagging inspection usually costs between €300 and €600 for an average-sized home.
Key Points: Snag Lists in Property Transactions
- A snag list finds problems or unfinished work in newly built properties
- Expert snagging services usually cost between €300 and €600 in Ireland
- Snagging helps make sure the property is good quality and safe before you move in
- Important things to check include the structure, electrical and plumbing systems, and finishes
- Most builders provide a warranty for up to two years after the property is finished
- Consider getting expert help with planning retention services to make sure everything follows the rules
A basic inspection might cover the main things and is good for smaller properties or those with fewer potential problems. These inspections usually focus on the most common problem areas and give a general overview of the property’s condition.
More detailed inspections provide a fuller analysis and are recommended for bigger properties or those with complex systems. These inspections are more thorough and take more time, often using special equipment to check for problems that might not be visible to the eye.
When thinking about the cost, it’s important to compare it to the potential savings. Finding and fixing problems early can prevent more expensive repairs later. For example, finding a small plumbing leak during a snagging inspection could save thousands in potential water damage repairs.
Tips for Buyers Using Snag Lists
To get the most out of the snagging process, buyers should follow these tips:
1. Time the Inspection Right
Do the snagging inspection as close to when the property is finished as possible, but before you move in. This lets you find problems while the property is still empty and gives the builder time to make necessary repairs.
2. Communicate Clearly with Builders
Keep clear and professional communication with the builder throughout the process. Give them a detailed snag list and agree on when they will fix the problems. It’s important to be firm about your concerns while staying cooperative.
3. Prioritize Problems and Repairs
Not all problems are equally urgent. Focus on major structural or safety concerns before small appearance issues. This helps make sure that the most critical issues are fixed promptly.
4. Keep Good Records
Keep detailed records of all communications, inspections, and repairs. This documentation can be really valuable if any arguments come up later. Take photos or videos of problems before and after repairs.
For expert advice on buying properties and making sure they follow building rules, consider our planning retention services. These services can provide valuable help throughout the snagging process, helping you understand your rights and making sure all parts of your property follow the relevant rules.