Q. What is a “Snag List”? 

This is a list of superficial defects that is given to your Builder, before you move in to your new home. These reports are used when you are purchasing a Brand-New Home in Galway or Mayo. Here is a link to our page specifically for new property and snag lists. 

Q. Why do I need a Snag List?

‘Caveat Emptor’, Buyer Beware! Small defects and cosmetic problems can ruin a new home and are often more costly to repair afterwards when the builder has left. Would you buy a car without having it checked-over? Probably not and a house is no different (and more expensive!). 

Q. My father is a builder, do I need a Snag List? 

‘Caveat Emptor’, Buyer Beware! Snag Lists are a professional document and can highlight cosmetic issues and also compliance issues for superficial issues. Whilst many builders are well capable of identifying snags, it needs to be assessed in terms of today’s regulations.  

Q. I’m buying a new house, do I need a Snag Survey? 

For a new house, you need a ‘Snag Survey’ or ‘Snag List’. Here is a link to our page specifically for new property and snag lists. In some cases your Solicitor may request that we take a look at maps, compliance and planning and we offer this as an additional Desktop Report, which is an additional option to a Snag Survey.

Q. What is the difference between a Snag Survey and Snag List? 

Nothing. They are both the same.

Q. How long does it take to ‘Snag’ a property? 

Overall, about 1 - 1.5 hours for one surveyor. Sometimes, we use two surveyors which reduces the time (two heads are better than one!).

Q. Can I be present when you are surveying?

Generally, no. Our insurance only covers ourselves at a property. We also need contemplative time when there to evaluate any problems or issues. Also, new builds are live working sites and require Safe Pass clearance and this is a matter for the Builder, so we are not permitted to have anyone else at the property.

Q. I have concerns about the property, how do I let you know?

We encourage all clients to email any concerns before the Snag Survey, so we can look at the issue when there. We can also include any snags that you have noted on the list also before it issues to the builder.  

Q. When can you undertake the survey?

We are usually booking for 5-7 working days ahead. Some people get quotes a couple of months ahead and have us ‘on notice’ of the Snag List, this helps us a lot with scheduling. The Snag List is usually ready as soon as we leave the property as we have developed our own ‘Snag Soft"‘ software.

Q. What is the difference between a Snag List and a Desktop Report?

We have two options for Snag Surveys.

• Option 1 is a standard Snag List only. This is the most common option chosen, it is just a Snag List.

• Option 2 is a Snag List and a Desktop Report. The report is an additional advisory report that you give to your Solicitor where we check maps, boundaries and planning history/compliance.

Q. What do you do when at the house? 

We examine the property for superficial defects and cosmetic snags. Specifically, we check the following:

• External walls / Finishes

• Roof finishes / Gutters & Downpipes / Flashings

• Windows & Doors / Disabled Compliance

• Internal Finishes / Painting Snags / Decorative Defects

• Joinery / Floors / Stairs

• Doors / Skirting / Architraves

• Kitchen Fit-Out & Finishes

• Electrical

• Plumbing & Heating installation.

• Attic areas

• Exteriors & Landscaping

• Building Regulations

• Quality of Work

Q. How do I get the report? 

We issue it as a .PDF on email. We issue the report to the client only. If you want a printed copy, just let us know and we will post one out to you. 

Q. I don’t really use email, can I get the Snag List? 

Yes. Just let us know if you want a printed copy and we will issue it this way to you. 

Q. Do you answer questions after the Snag List? 

Yes. We answer all your questions and queries afterwards. This is usually by return email. If you want a follow-up call, just let us know and we will schedule it with you. 

Q. Do you have Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII)?

Yes. We are fully indemnified or ‘bonded’. 

Q. Are you ‘bonded’?

Yes. We are fully indemnified or ‘bonded’. This is called “Professional Indemnity Insurance” (PII).

Q. Have you Public Liability Insurance? 

Yes. We are fully insured when at the property (but it only covers ourselves). 

Q. What Engineer will visit my property?

It will be an experienced member of our professional staff. Unlike others, we are not a referral service. You hire us. We are your team! 

Q. How do you maintain quality?

All reports are overseen, supervised, validated and signed by Dwayne Higgins, who is the Managing Director. We are not a referral service. We have strict reporting standards that are constantly checked and updated. We have our own snag software called ‘Snag Soft’ and this ensures everything is covered.  

Q. What are the most common snags?

Hard to say, but here is a brief list:

• Cosmetic issues - painting

• Plumbing leaks

• Dust, Dirt and Cleaning!

Q. Do you check the Building Regulations?

Yes. We check the regs that apply when the house was built.

Q. Who arranges access to the property?

We do. From once you book us, we handle everything. We arrange the keys and access with the Auctioneer / Vendor. 

Q. How do I contact you?

Email is particularly favoured. We usually survey in the morning and type in the afternoon, so email is the best way to get a response.

Q. How much does a Snag Survey / Snag List cost in Galway or Mayo?

Not a lot for the comprehensive service that we offer. All our prices include VAT, many quote without it to appear cheaper. You can get a full quote on our website today!