Building work snagging checklist
The short answer
Snagging is the process of identifying defects, unfinished items and damage at the end of building work, recording them clearly and agreeing when they will be put right. Work through the property methodically, record each item with a location, a description and a photograph, and collect the certificates and documentation you are owed before treating the job as complete.
Key points
- Snagging covers visible defects, incomplete work and damage — not hidden or technical performance.
- Record each item with a room, a clear description and a dated photograph.
- Inspect in good light, and take your time.
- Do not carry out specialist safety inspections yourself: leave electrical, gas, heating and structural testing to suitably qualified and registered people.
- Documentation and certificates are part of completion, not an afterthought.
Published by Kezariq Ltd. See the source links below for official guidance.
What snagging means
A snag is something that is not right: a defect in workmanship, an item left unfinished, or damage caused during the works. Snagging is not a substitute for inspections by Building Control or by a qualified professional, and it does not cover things you cannot see.
Working through the property
Finishes
Walls and ceilings for cracks, bulges, poor joints and uneven surfaces. Tiling for alignment, spacing, grouting and sealant. Flooring for level, gaps, scratches and edge trims. Skirtings, architraves and joinery for fit and finish.
Doors and windows
Open and close everything. Check operation, alignment, locking, seals, handles, hinges, trickle vents where fitted, and that glazing is unmarked and beading is neat. Check external doors for draughts and correct thresholds.
Sanitary fittings
Check that basins, baths, showers, WCs and taps are secure, level, sealed and operating. Look for leaks around traps and connections, check waste flow, and check shower enclosures and screens for correct sealing.
Electrical items (visual only)
Check that sockets, switches, light fittings and faceplates are present, straight, secure and undamaged, and that the layout matches what was agreed. Do not open, test or dismantle anything: electrical testing and certification is work for a registered electrician.
Decoration
Coverage and consistency, brush marks, runs, missed areas, overspray onto glass or ironmongery, and cut-in lines at edges and ceilings.
Damage
Check existing rooms, floors, garden, drives, fencing and neighbouring surfaces for damage caused during the work, not just the new space.
Incomplete work
Missing trims, unfitted ironmongery, unfinished making good, items still on order, and anything from the specification that has not appeared.
Cleaning and clearance
Removal of waste, protective sheeting, stickers and labels, plaster and paint splashes, and a builders' clean of the affected areas.
Certificates and documentation
- Building Control completion certificate, where applicable.
- Competent person scheme certificates for electrical, gas or heating work.
- Manufacturer warranties, guarantees and registration documents.
- Operating and maintenance instructions for installed equipment.
- Any structural engineer's or specialist's sign-off relating to the work.
Recording defects
Number each item, give it a location, describe it factually, add a dated photograph, and issue the list in writing. Agree a date for each item to be addressed and re-inspect before signing anything off.
Keep the list open until every item is either resolved or explicitly agreed as accepted.
Confirming completion
Completion is a combination of things: the snagging list closed out, the documentation received, and any final payment released in line with what you agreed. Where a retention was agreed, make sure the terms for releasing it are written down.
Things to check
- Have you inspected in daylight, room by room, with the list in hand?
- Does every snag have a location, a description and a photograph?
- Have you compared the finished work against the specification?
- Have you collected every certificate and warranty you are owed?
- Have you checked existing areas of the property for damage?
- Is the final payment linked to the snagging list being closed out?
Record and close out your snagging list properly
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This guide is general information for UK homeowners. It is not legal, planning, structural or professional advice, and it does not take account of your individual circumstances. Rules change and vary between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and by local authority.
KEZARIQ provides guidance and documents you complete and review yourself. It does not manage your project, carry out professional services, or replace an architect, surveyor, structural engineer, planning consultant or other competent professional where one is required. Nothing here guarantees planning permission, Building Regulations approval, prices, contractor performance or any project outcome. You remain responsible for your own project and decisions.