What Is Snagging in Property? A Buyer Checklist

Your new flat is ready and the builder asks you to take possession. Before you sign and pay the last amount, there is one step that can save you from months of trouble: snagging. It means inspecting the home carefully and listing every defect for the builder to fix. This guide explains what snagging is, what to check, and how to use a snag list to protect yourself.

What snagging means

Snagging is the process of inspecting a newly built or newly handed-over property to find defects, faults and unfinished work before you accept possession. A snag is any problem, from a cracked tile or a leaking tap to a door that does not close or a missing fitting. You note every snag in a list, called a snag list, and give it to the builder to fix before or soon after you take over. It is your chance to get faults corrected while the builder is still responsible.

What to check during snagging

• Walls and ceilings. Cracks, damp patches, uneven paint and seepage.
• Floors and tiles. Cracked, hollow or uneven tiles and skirting.
• Doors and windows. Alignment, locks, handles, and smooth opening and closing.
• Plumbing. Taps, drains, water pressure, leaks and blockages.
• Electricals. Switches, sockets, lights, the meter and the distribution board.
• Kitchen and bathrooms. Fittings, waterproofing, drainage and slope.
• Finishes. Paint, polish, and the promised specifications and brands.

How to do snagging

1. Inspect in daylight. Visit in good light and, if possible, on a dry and a wet check to spot leaks.
2. Test everything. Open every tap, switch and door, and run water to check drainage.
3. Match the specifications. Compare fittings and finishes with what the agreement promised.
4. List and photograph. Write each snag and take photos as proof.
5. Share with the builder. Give the signed snag list to the builder and fix a timeline for repairs.

Do the snagging before you sign the possession documents. Once you accept possession without noting defects, getting them fixed can be harder. Pair this with the paperwork check in our guide on the occupancy and completion certificates.

Why snagging matters

Snagging protects your money and your peace. Fixing defects after you move in, at your own cost, is expensive and stressful. A proper snag list makes the builder correct faults while they are still responsible under the agreement and the warranty. Under RERA, a builder is liable to fix structural and workmanship defects reported within the defect liability period, usually five years from possession, so noting snags early strengthens your claim. To confirm the project's status, use our RERA check guide.

Frequently asked questions

What is snagging in property?

It is the process of inspecting a newly built home to find defects and unfinished work before you accept possession, and listing them for the builder to fix.

What is a snag list?

A snag list is the written list of all defects and faults found during the inspection, given to the builder to correct.

When should I do snagging?

Before you sign the possession documents and make the final payment, so the builder fixes the defects while still responsible.

What should I check during snagging?

Walls and ceilings, floors and tiles, doors and windows, plumbing, electricals, kitchen and bathrooms, and whether the finishes match the promised specifications.

Should I hire a professional for snagging?

You can inspect yourself with a checklist, but a professional snagging service can spot hidden faults like waterproofing and electrical issues more thoroughly.

Can I refuse possession if there are defects?

You can note the defects and ask the builder to fix them before taking possession, or take possession with a written commitment to repair the listed snags.

What happens after I give the snag list?

The builder is expected to fix the listed defects within an agreed timeline. Keep a copy and photos, and confirm the repairs before final acceptance.

Does RERA cover defects after possession?

Yes. Under RERA, a builder is liable to fix structural and workmanship defects reported within the defect liability period, usually five years from possession.

How long is the defect liability period?

It is commonly five years from the date of possession under RERA, during which the builder must fix notified defects free of cost.

Should I photograph the defects?

Yes. Photos of each snag, with the snag list, serve as proof and strengthen your claim if the builder delays the repairs.

What is the most common type of snag?

Common snags include cracked or hollow tiles, paint and wall finish issues, leaking taps and drains, and doors or windows that do not align.

Can I do snagging on a resale home?

Snagging is mainly for new homes under builder responsibility. For a resale home, do a thorough inspection, but repairs are usually your own responsibility after purchase.

Should I match fittings with the agreement?

Yes. Check that the fittings, brands and finishes match what the agreement promised, and list any shortfall as a snag.

Is snagging worth the effort?

Yes. It gets defects fixed at the builder's cost while they are responsible, saving you money and trouble after you move in.

Snagging is your last, best chance to get a new home fixed at the builder's cost, so inspect carefully before you accept possession. Pair it with the paperwork check in our occupancy certificate guide.