General Guide to New Build Defects — How to Spot, Record and Report Snags in Your New Home
Moving into a brand new home is an exciting milestone — everything feels fresh, modern and yours. But even in a high-quality new build, it’s normal to notice a few small issues once you start living in the space properly. These are known as defects or snags, and every new home will have them to some degree.
The good news is that you don’t need to worry alone. Your home comes with a defect period (usually 12–24 months depending on your developer), and the New Build Defect Team (NBDT) is here to support you through the reporting and resolution process.
This guide explains how to identify defects, how to report them properly — and most importantly — how our team works with developers on your behalf.
Step 1: Take Time to Inspect Your Home
In the first week of moving in, we recommend carrying out a thorough walkthrough of your property. Look at the areas you might not notice during day-to-day use — inside cupboards, under sinks, around window frames, along skirting boards and behind appliances. Try things out one at a time: open every door, test every tap, run the heating, switch every light on and off.
Anything that isn’t working as it should, has been poorly fitted, or appears unfinished may be classed as a defect and worth noting down for further assessment.
Step 2: Build Your Snagging List
The easiest way to report defects is by keeping a clear list with supporting photos and completing our defects and repairs form. Try to group issues by room or type (for example: Bathroom — loose tap; Living Room — sticking window catch). This helps us assess the urgency and pass accurate information to the developer’s contractor.
Not sure whether something counts as a defect or just natural settlement? Still record it. It’s better to log early than miss your opportunity to report it during the defect period.
Step 3: How the Reporting Process Works
Once you’ve sent your snagging list to the NBDT, our role is to review it, categorise the items and forward genuine defects to the developer or contractor responsible for the build.
It’s important to understand that the NBDT team does not carry out repairs directly. Instead, we act as your liaison — the middle point between you and the developer. We speak to them on your behalf, track progress, push for updates and ensure works are raised in the correct way.
Step 4: What to Expect After Reporting
We appreciate that when something isn’t right in your new home, you want it resolved quickly. However, as repairs are carried out by the developer’s contractors, appointments and scheduling are dependent on their availability and timescales.
While we can’t control contractor diaries or response times, we can:
- Make sure your case is logged correctly
- Follow up when works are overdue
- Keep communication clear and organised
- Escalate with the developer where needed
We know it can be tempting to “get someone in quickly” — but please do not instruct your own contractor to carry out defect repairs. Doing so may void your warranty, and your housing association will not reimburse any costs for works arranged independently. Even if you believe an issue is urgent, please contact us first so we can assess the situation and advise on the correct process. We do have an out of hours service if it is an emergency. The contact details are listed in your Home User Guide.
You’re Not Chasing Alone — We’re With You Throughout
Reporting defects can feel daunting, especially if you’ve never owned a home before. But you’re not expected to manage it alone. The NBDT is here to represent you, not just pass messages along. Think of us as your support team, coordinating with the developer so you don’t have to.
So take your time settling in, record anything that doesn’t seem quite right, and when you’re ready — send it over. We’ll take it from there.