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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Buying a new home can raise many questions about snagging inspections, reports, and the inspection process. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from homeowners across Scotland.
About Snagging Inspections
3 questionsWhat is a snagging inspection?
A snagging inspection is a detailed assessment of a newly built property to identify defects, incomplete works, or items that fall below expected construction standards.
The inspection ensures any issues are formally documented so they can be raised with the builder during the defect liability period.
Is a snagging inspection really necessary on a new home?
Many homeowners assume that a brand-new property will be free from defects. While most developers aim to deliver a high standard of workmanship, modern housing developments are often built under tight construction schedules.
Even well-managed sites can result in minor defects, incomplete finishes, or items that do not meet expected standards.
A professional snagging inspection provides:
- An independent, objective assessment
- Detailed documentation of defects
- Peace of mind before your warranty period begins
- Protection of your financial investment
In many cases, homeowners may only notice a small number of visible issues. A thorough inspection frequently identifies significantly more items that would otherwise go unnoticed.
What types of defects are typically identified during a snagging inspection?
Common defects identified during inspections include:
- Poor plastering or paint finishes
- Misaligned doors or windows
- Incomplete sealants
- Plumbing leaks
- Electrical installation issues
- Poorly fitted fixtures or fittings
- Flooring or tiling defects
Each issue is documented clearly within the inspection report.
Timing & Booking
4 questionsWhen should I book my snagging inspection?
We recommend booking your inspection well in advance to secure availability around your completion date.
Ideally, inspections should take place:
- On the day you take legal possession, or
- Within 3–4 days of completion
Many builders request a snagging list within 7 days of handover, so arranging an inspection early ensures defects are identified and recorded within the appropriate timeframe.
Booking early also helps ensure your preferred inspection date is available.
Snagging inspections can still be carried out at any time within the first 2 years after completion, while your builder remains responsible for resolving defects.
Can the inspection be carried out before I move in?
Yes, and this is often preferable.
If possible, arrange the inspection before floor coverings are installed and before furniture is delivered. Some builders allow access prior to legal completion, but this must be agreed directly with them.
How long does the inspection take?
Inspection times vary depending on property size.
Typical durations include:
- 1 bedroom apartment: approximately 2 hours
- 3–4 bedroom property: approximately 4–5 hours
- Larger properties: up to 6 hours
The inspection is thorough and methodical to ensure all accessible areas are checked carefully.
How can I book a snagging inspection with Scottish Home Inspections?
Booking is simple:
- Select your inspection property type
- Enter your inspection property postcode (or nearest postcode/town)
- Provide additional location details if required (e.g. plot number or development name)
- Select your preferred inspection date (if your chosen date is unavailable, alternative options will be provided)
- Complete secure payment to confirm your booking
Your confirmed inspection date and time will be displayed on screen before payment and included in your confirmation email, along with full details of your inspection.
Reports & Warranty
3 questionsWhat does the inspection report include?
You will receive a comprehensive digital report including:
- Clearly listed defects
- Supporting photographic evidence
- Location references for each issue
- A structured format suitable for submission to your developer
Reports are typically delivered within 24-48 hours of the inspection.
Does the NHBC warranty cover snagging items?
Not always.
While the NHBC (National House Building Council) warranty typically lasts for 10 years, minor cosmetic issues are often excluded.
Builders are usually responsible for defects during the first two years, although this can vary depending on the warranty provider.
For this reason, it is important that snagging items are identified and formally raised during the builder's defect liability period.
What happens if my builder disputes the findings?
Our reports are prepared professionally and supported with photographic evidence.
If you encounter difficulty with your builder, Scottish Home Inspections can discuss appropriate next steps and provide guidance on how to proceed.
About Scottish Home Inspections
5 questionsAre you independent from developers?
Yes.
Scottish Home Inspections operates independently and solely in the interests of the homeowner. We have no affiliation with developers or building companies.
Our inspections provide an impartial assessment of your property.
Do you inspect flats and shared areas?
Yes.
We inspect individual apartments and, where accessible and agreed, can review shared or communal elements relevant to the property.
Do you offer re-inspections?
Yes.
Once remedial works have been completed, we can carry out a re-inspection to verify that issues identified during the initial inspection have been addressed.
Re-inspections are charged separately from the original survey.
What areas of Scotland do you cover?
Scottish Home Inspections operates across Scotland.
Inspection pricing is based on property size and travel distance.
Please see our Pricing and Areas Covered page for full detail.
Why choose Scottish Home Inspections for your property inspection?
Scottish Home Inspections provides independent snagging and property inspections across Scotland. Our service is led by a BSc-qualified Civil Engineer with deep roots in UK construction, supported by a multidisciplinary team — we provide detailed digital reports with photographic evidence, clear pricing and a straightforward online booking process.
We inspect new build, existing and re-inspection properties, helping homeowners identify defects and ensure issues are properly addressed.
Still have questions?
If your question isn't answered above, get in touch — we're happy to help.
Ready to book your inspection?
Arrange your snagging inspection online in just a few simple steps.