*Based on our cost data, received directly from user feedback.
Here are 4 simple steps to find the best surveyors for your snagging survey
It may be tempting to contact a snagging surveyor directly thinking you will get a better deal, but here are a few reasons why you should compare companies with us instead.
Our surveying partners compete for your business, which often means lower costs than going to a company directly.
All our snagging partners are vetted and include RICS-qualified professional and RPSA members, so you can compare experienced experts who know what defects to look for.
We’ll save you time by connecting you with local snagging surveyors who know how important it is to spot defects early.
We collect feedback from every user, so you can compare companies and choose with confidence.
Excellent service provided by Merit Estates. Great communication, friendly and efficient. Would recommend to anyone.Cath Lumby
Excellent service, well worth the money. Checked everything in the house and a great report easy to followIan Cooper
Fantastic service received from Richard at BD surveyors. He was by far the cheapest quote I received!Elliott Fenn
Excellent service from start to finish. Didn't rush us to get one done, and suggested we wait until other parts of the buying process were complete before arranging a timeMatthew Bayley
Can't thank Rob enough, really helped me out. Was quick and gave me some helpful advice before completing the survey.Danielle Cross
Competitive price and good communication. Report was thorough and well presented.Fiona Mayo
Prompt, efficient and highly detailed service.Jenny Howard
A new build snagging survey was designed to identify common defects typical in new builds. Unlike RICS Home Surveys, new build surveys don't cover the overall condition of a property or go into as much structural detail.
It includes a property inspection and a detailed snagging report, and covers everything from cosmetic issues, such as cracked tiles or flaking paint, to more serious snags, including poor insulation and incorrect brickwork. These snags are often missed by buyers, and a snagging survey helps to identify them sooner. Read more on our guide on what is a snagging survey.
Snagging surveys ensure your developer is held accountable for any snags found, and the onus is on them to rectify these before your two-year warranty period ends.
While you can complete a snagging survey yourself, it's better to hire a professional snagger. Not only will they know what to look for, but their professional snag list will provide stronger grounds when reporting issues to your developer.
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After your surveyor has inspected both the internal and external areas of the property, looking for things such as cosmetic problems and functional issues, they will compile a report based on their findings.
Your snagging report (snagging checklist) will contain any snags or poor workmanship present in the home; it will also flag any inconsistencies with the compliance of building regulations and warranty standards.
Some reports may contain photographic evidence that you can present to the developer. Either way, the report will give you a clear record of everything that needs fixing under your warranty.
A snagging survey differs from an official RICS survey as it doesn't have a set structure that needs to be followed. Due to this, each snagging report will vary slightly based on the company you choose.
Your snagging report will typically include:
Ideally, you should arrange a snagging inspection before your legal completion date, as they are time-sensitive. This will give the property developer time to fix any problems well in advance of your move-in date.
Some developers won't allow surveyors on site until building work is complete. In this instance, we strongly recommend booking the survey as soon as possible after completion. This prevents developers from blaming you for defects that were there from day one.
As part of the New Homes Quality Code, your developer should offer you a Pre-Completion Inspection. This is carried out by an independent inspector, chosen and paid for by you.
As it only highlights visible, surface-level issues, it's still recommended to have a snagging survey conducted for a more detailed overview.
Quick timing guide:
Snagging surveys typically cost between £300 and £500, with the UK average at £377*. The exact price will depend on the size, value, and location of your property.
While it’s an added cost now, getting a survey from a snagging company can save you hundreds of pounds in the long run by catching issues while it’s still the developer’s responsibility to fix them.
Always compare house survey quotes from multiple local snagging companies to find the best price. With Compare My Move, you can compare up to 5 local snagging surveyors and save up to 70% on your costs.
What affects the price of a snagging survey?
Yes, it's worth having a snagging survey carried out to ensure all snags covered in your two-year warranty are resolved.
While the NHBC’s 10-year Buildmark warranty covers new-build home buyers, snagging surveys get to the root of the problem early.
By arranging a snagging survey before completion, you ensure the developer fixes any problems, and the onus doesn't fall on you. This will protect you from future costly repairs should any issues occur with the property.
It's especially worth it if:
Explore our expertly-reviewed guides on surveying and more.
What Is a Snagging Survey?
New Build Survey: What It Is and Why You Need One
How Much Does a Snagging Survey Cost in 2026?
Why Use a Professional Snagger?
Find answers to common questions about comparing and choosing the best house surveyors.
Compare nowCommon snags include:
A professional snagging survey helps you catch both cosmetic and more serious defects early.
Most snagging surveys take a few hours, depending on the size and finish of the property. Your surveyor will usually inspect every accessible area and provide a report afterwards, with turnaround times varying between providers.
A snagging survey differs from the official inspection your developer may offer. A professional snagging survey gives you an independent, detailed report (often with photos) that makes it easier to raise issues and get them fixed within your warranty period.
At Compare My Move, we always ensure to match you with the best possible snagging companies in your area. Every partner we work with is trusted and verified by being regulated by one of the following bodies - RICS or RPSA.
All our partners have passed our strict verification process, which includes verifying their legitimacy and checking the necessary accreditation, helping to provide additional peace of mind.
They must always meet our strict code of practice to ensure they are providing customers with the best possible service, which involves completing the correct training and contacting you directly.
We regularly monitor our partners to check their adherence and to make sure they uphold our high standards.
