The 10 Most Common Snags in New-Build Homes (England, 2020–2025) + How We Investigate Them at 360 Associates

Introduction

Over 93% of new-build homeowners in England report defects after moving in. NHBC and LABC Warranty data shows the average property has between 8–15 snags, with some exceeding 100. While many are cosmetic, some can lead to long-term structural, thermal or compliance issues if left unresolved.

At 360 Associates, we specialise in identifying these problems through detailed, independent snagging inspections and Clerk of Works services across England. Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 most common snags - and how we investigate them on site.

1. Poor Plastering & Paintwork

Reported by 60%+ of new homeowners, this includes hairline cracks, uneven skim coats, tape lines showing through paint, or overspray on fixtures.

🛠️ How we investigate:

We visually inspect all walls and ceilings under consistent lighting to detect surface undulations, and check corners and junctions for cracking or shrinkage. We also assess paint uniformity and note blemishes like paint on sockets or switches. Where needed, we recommend repainting or remedial skimming.

2. Faulty Brickwork & Pointing

External wall defects (e.g. poor mortar application, uneven brick courses) account for 31% of warranty claims. These can compromise both appearance and weather resistance.

🛠️ How we investigate:

We assess mortar joints for crumbling, recessed pointing, and cold joints between panels. We check alignment using spirit levels and visually inspect for “snots” or inconsistent bonding. If there’s concern over mortar strength, we recommend testing per BS EN 998-2 standards. We also look for weep hole placement and DPC compliance.

3. Poorly Fitted Doors & Windows

Sticking doors, misaligned hinges, and draughty seals are common - often caused by timber swelling or poor installation.

🛠️ How we investigate:

We test every internal and external door for smooth operation, correct closing alignment, and latch engagement. We inspect intumescent strips on fire doors, measure gaps against Part B standards, and check all window openings for correct sealing, easy operation, and draught exclusion. We often find silicone sealant missing or poorly applied.

4. Missing or Poor Insulation

Gaps in insulation are common and reduce energy efficiency. This often breaches Part L (Thermal Efficiency) of the Building Regs.

🛠️ How we investigate:

We access loft spaces to check coverage, depth, and edge detailing. Where necessary, we use thermal imaging to spot heat loss at junctions and cold bridges. In cavity walls or underfloor voids, we check for continuity and correct placement of insulation using borescopes or service hatch inspections.

5. Roofing & Flashing Issues

Loose tiles, incorrectly installed verge systems, or missing lead flashing can cause water ingress and serious damage. Roofing accounted for 15% of all new-build defects.

🛠️ How we investigate:

From ground level, we inspect ridge lines, verge units and soffit/fascia junctions for alignment and mechanical fixings. Using ladders or drones (if permitted), we check for missing, broken or loose tiles and inspect the detailing around chimneys and roof penetrations. Poorly “dressed” flashing is easily identified and flagged for immediate attention.

6. Guttering & Drainage Problems

Blocked or misaligned gutters and standing water around the property are frequent. Poor site drainage can lead to long-term damp or subsidence.

🛠️ How we investigate:

We perform water flow checks to test gutter falls and downpipe discharge. We check for standing water in gutters and inspect for leaks at joints or downpipe offsets. On the ground, we assess gradient levels around the property and look for pooling on hard standings or in planting beds that could affect foundations.

7. Plumbing Leaks

Leaks from waste pipes, poorly sealed traps, or inadequate testing before handover are regularly reported by new homeowners.

🛠️ How we investigate:

We run all taps, flush toilets, and fill baths/showers to capacity to stress-test connections. We inspect under sinks and behind bath panels (where accessible) for signs of drips, staining or sealant failure. We also check water pressure and drainage speed to identify partial blockages or poor gradient falls.

8. Electrical & Heating Faults

Dead sockets, unbalanced radiators or faulty thermostats can affect functionality and comfort. While we don’t test electrics ourselves, we ensure visible installations meet expected standards.

🛠️ How we investigate:

We visually inspect all electrical points and fittings for proper placement and damage. We note missing or damaged faceplates, visible cabling issues, and incomplete installations. We check heating systems for cold spots across radiators and confirm that thermostats are responding correctly. Where technical faults are suspected, we recommend certified electrician or engineer follow-up.

9. Cracks & Structural Settlement

Most shrinkage cracks are harmless, but deeper or growing cracks may indicate structural movement.

🛠️ How we investigate:

We document crack locations, widths, and directions, referencing industry tolerance guides (e.g. NHBC Standards). We look for patterns such as stepped cracking in brickwork or sticking doors which may suggest frame distortion. Where movement is suspected, we recommend structural engineer input.

10. Ventilation & Damp

Condensation and mould are common in new builds, especially where extractors or trickle vents are missing or blocked.

🛠️ How we investigate:

We check that all mechanical ventilation systems are installed, connected, and working (especially in kitchens, bathrooms and WCs). We inspect windows for working trickle vents and evidence of condensation. Mould spots are recorded and traced back to likely causes — often cold bridging or lack of airflow. We confirm compliance with Part F of Building Regulations.

Why Snagging Matters

Most snags fall under the 2-year builder liability period in NHBC and similar new-build warranties. However, many buyers miss the window to act due to a lack of formal inspection. Similarly, developers face reputational and financial risk if defects are not caught before handover.

At 360 Associates, we provide independent snagging inspections and Clerk of Works oversight to:

✅ Protect your investment

✅ Identify snags before warranty deadlines

✅ Ensure compliance with current UK building regulations

✅ Support a smooth handover and fewer post-completion call-backs

📍 Need a pre-completion inspection or post-handover snag list?

We’re ICWCI, RPSA, and soon-to-be CIOB accredited.

📞 Get in touch at [www.360associates.co.uk].