All you need to know about Snagging Survey

Are you buying a new property but need clarification on the construction quality and stuff? The real estate market is filled with vocabulary that newbie buyers and sellers may be unfamiliar with, adding a layer of tension to complicated property dealings. For that, a snagging report will help you get the unbiased truth about your home to make a wise decision before investing. So we have come up with this blog to discuss the term snagging. Have a read!

What is snagging?

While snagging is more of a slang term, it is still commonly referred to by contractors as it is crucial for home inspections. Snags are minor flaws that remain in a property after it has been constructed. Think of a missing hinge on a door or marks on the walls. Slight defects like these aside, a snag can also be a large crack on a kitchen wall because a fixture hasn't been properly fitted. Therefore, a snag list contains details of oversights or problems during development and is given to the concerned parties to rectify.

What is a snagging report?

It is an inspection executed of a property at the time of the visit invitation by the developer. It is the time a homeowner is allowed to point out any defects/snags found in their property before proceeding with the key handover from the developer.

Why do I need a snagging inspection?

It allows the owner to receive technical advice on the property's condition from all aspects; cosmetics, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing. Therefore, ensuring the property is defect-free before taking the key handover.

What is covered in a snagging inspection?

Without exclusions - every part and every item of the property should be inspected. Cosmetics, MEPs, sanitary ware, appliances, furniture (if applicable). For villas and townhouses, water pump room, water tank, manholes, garden area, carport, and rooftop.

When do I need the snagging inspection?

The snagging inspection should be done at the time of the property's orientation before the developer completes the handover process.

Why do I need 3rd party snagging professionals?

Third-party professionals have technical knowledge and experience in construction, so you have an expert opinion on your property, which helps you get possession of your property in its ideal condition. They would also use their tools and equipment to point out the hidden defects/problems in the property. Equipment like thermal cameras, electrical socket testers, humidity level meters, and more will be used for your benefit.

How much does a snagging survey cost?

The cost of a snagging survey should be related to the scope of the work required. For that, you can expect the service to be charged at an amount per square foot of the area to be inspected.

How is the snagging inspection going to benefit me as an owner?

Snagging helps the owner know the defects before moving in and thereby helps in getting returns on the investment faster. Whether you are an end user, an investor, or looking to sell the property, there are benefits to conducting a snagging inspection of your asset. As an end user, you will want the property to be in its absolute best condition before moving in with your family. You want to ensure your tenants move into the property without defects to save you the hassle of chasing after the developer or having to cash in for rectifications if you are an investor. Finally, if you want to sell your property, a snagging inspection/report will add value to your listing and put you on the top list for a potential buyer.

Who is responsible for rectifying the snags?

The developer is always responsible for rectifying all the snags and defects. They should also allow you to have a De-snag inspection before the key handover.

How long do developers take to rectify all the snags?

Every developer has a different timeline and depends on the property's size and the number of snags reported. But the average is about 20 to 30 days.

What is a De-snag inspection?

De-snag inspection is the 2nd inspection which should be conducted after the developer team confirms that all the snags are rectified. It will help you ensure that the defects have been repaired accurately and up to the standard.

Is snagging supposed to be for newly built properties only?

A "snagging inspection" is usually done for newly built properties. But different types of inspections would cover other requirements such as move-in inspection, move-out inspection, and condition inspection.

That concludes our guide on the real estate term “snagging” that buyers, sellers, and real estate agents should be familiar with. For more insight into the UAE real estate market, stay tuned to Driven Properties.