What to include in your snagging list?

So, you’re down to counting the last few weeks until the big move-in? It won’t be long until you finally settle in, so give yourself a good pat on the back for us. 

No home is fundamentally perfect. Yes, even brand new ones. There is always room for human error. While the majority of homes for sale in Dubai are usually built with high standards of quality, safety and design in mind, a lot of things can be overlooked during the construction process. To ensure there are no last-minute setbacks, you’ll need a final quality check, also known as snagging. You might be hearing the word “snagging” more often now that the property handover is just around the corner. If you paid little or no attention to it then, it’s time you do so today.

What is Snagging?

An informal term in the construction and property management industry, snagging, or a snagging survey, is a final inspection to check flaws, omissions or shoddy workmanship, called snags, before the final sign-off of a newly built home, especially off-plan properties. As a final inspection to ensure your home is flawless, it is done to flag any defective, broken, or unfinished items for the developer to rectify. 

Snags can be related to the property's air conditioning, electrical, or plumbing systems, or any civil or structural defect. They can range from minor and cosmetic to significant and structural issues. Flaked or uneven paint, ill-fitting doors and windows, and defective appliances and fixtures are just a few examples.

Is Snagging Necessary?

Buying a home is a major expense. Most likely, you purchased the property with a mortgage that requires monthly payments. That in and of itself is reason enough to avoid added expenditures, especially if it is something you can prevent. 

This is the case for snagging. While they may seem like minor faults, they can lead to more serious problems and larger repair bills down the line. 

Some snags are easy to spot, others are inconspicuous. This is especially true for homeowners who don't plan on occupying the property right away. This is because some issues only become apparent after move-in day. By this point, developers may no longer accept rectifications. As a result, new homeowners are left with no choice but to shoulder the expense themselves.   

So, before signing off, the onus is on you to cast a critical eye and ensure that your home is not only well-built according to the agreed-upon standards but also safe and structurally sound. Snagging is well worth the investment, and it's crucial to put it on your priority list.

What to Include in Your Snagging List?

Knowing as much as you can about what to inspect can make the process easier and more efficient. This is where a snagging list comes in handy, ensuring you don't forget key items and areas to check methodically. Below are the essential items that should be a part of your snagging list:

Mechanical, electrical and plumbing components

Air-conditioning

Lighting systems, including all the sockets and switches 

Taps, pumps and water heaters

Carpentry

Doors and windows

Cabinets

Locks and hinges

Civil and structural

Painting

Tiling

Sloping in bathrooms

External and internal walls

Appliances (if applicable)

White goods, including the refrigerator, washing machine, dishwashers, etc.

Finishing and Aesthetic Details

Wall finishes

Flooring

Ceilings

Fixtures and fittings

Glass and mirrors

Safety and Security Checks

Smoke detectors

Balconies and railings

Locks and keys

Emergency exits

Outdoor and Shared Areas

If your property includes a balcony, garden, parking area, or access to shared community spaces, these should also be evaluated before handover.

Landscaping

Parking

Access gates or lifts

Drainage

Hire a Professional Snagging Inspector

While you may be able to conduct a snagging survey yourself, many homeowners lack the experience or are not fully qualified to conduct one on their own. A comprehensive inspection requires a trained eye and a wide range of hi-tech tools and equipment to cover all areas of the property. This is why we always recommend having professionals inspect your new home to ensure you're getting what you paid for. Find out how our Property Management can help with the snagging process of your brand-new home.

Conclusion

Your new home is an investment, one you should be proud of, not one you end up regretting. When conducting the final inspection of your home, ensure your snagging list is thorough so that the inspection goes smoothly and you're pleased with the outcome. Taking the time to identify and report snags before moving in helps ensure that any defects, however minor, are corrected by the developer while still under obligation. By being proactive and detail-oriented, you can avoid costly repairs down the line and move in with a sense of peace of mind.

Looking for a new property? Our expert team is here to help you find the perfect home that matches your needs and lifestyle. From viewing to closing, we guide you every step of the way. So, contact us today.