Jim
15 Sept 2025
(and How to Spot Them)
Buying a new home should feel exciting, not stressful. Yet too often, homeowners discover issues after moving in that could have been avoided with a professional snagging inspection. These “snags” are minor or major defects that builders sometimes miss - anything from cracked tiles to faulty boilers. Left unresolved, they can cost thousands of pounds to fix.
Here are the 10 most common snagging issues in UK homes, how to spot them, and why professional inspections matter.
1. Uneven Plaster & Paint Finishes
Bumps, cracks, or uneven coverage are common.
Shine a torch across walls to spot imperfections.
2. Poorly Fitted Doors & Windows
Stiff hinges, gaps causing drafts, or locks that stick.
Test every door and window - do they close smoothly?
3. Cracked or Uneven Tiles & Flooring
Loose tiles, lippage (uneven levels), or squeaky floorboards.
Walk barefoot to feel unevenness.
4. Leaks Around Kitchens & Bathrooms
Check taps, under-sink pipes, and shower seals.
Even minor leaks cause mould and water damage.
5. Boiler & Heating Faults
Test radiators for even heat.
Ask to see boiler documentation and service records.
6. Roofing Issues
Missing or misaligned tiles, poor flashing.
Inspect from ground level with binoculars.
7. Poor Insulation & Drafts
Cold spots near windows or loft hatches.
Use a thermal camera app if possible.
8. External Brickwork & Mortar Defects
Check for cracks, gaps, or mismatched mortar.
9. Drainage Problems in Gardens
Standing water after rain = poor grading.
10. Electrical Issues
Loose sockets, flickering lights, missing certificates.
Why Snagging Matters
Without an inspection, these issues can slip past the final handover - leaving homeowners footing the bill. Professional snagging provides a detailed photographic report, giving buyers evidence to request repairs from the builder.
CTA:
👉 Download our Free Snagging Checklist and catch defects before they cost you: