Quality varies a lot between snagging firms. These nine checks separate a report the developer has to act on from one they can ignore. They apply to any firm, including us.
1. Are They Members of a Professional Body?
For a pre-completion inspection under the New Homes Quality Code, the inspector must be suitably qualified: a member of a recognised professional body for surveying, such as RICS, CIOB or CABE. Ask which body, and check the membership on that body's own directory.
2. Do They Have Professional Indemnity Insurance?
The Code requires it for pre-completion inspections, and it protects you if something serious is missed. Ask who the insurer is and what the cover is.
3. Are They Independent of the Developer?
An inspector recommended by the sales office, or one who also works for developers, has a conflict. Ask directly whether they take work or referral fees from housebuilders.
4. Who Inspects, and Who Signs the Report?
Some firms sell the job and pass it on. You should know the inspector's name and professional body before the day, and who checks the report before you get it.
5. Can You See a Sample Report?
A good report gives every snag a photo, an exact location, a priority and a clear remedy, and references the standard where one applies. If a firm won't show you an example, be wary.
6. Do They Use the NHQB Checklist?
If your developer is NHQB-registered, the pre-completion inspection must use the NHQB Pre-Completion Inspection Checklist. Ask whether they use it.
7. Can They Fit Your Inspection Window?
The Notice to Complete period is normally at least 14 calendar days, and the inspection has to happen inside it. Ask how quickly they can attend and how soon the report arrives after the visit.
8. What's Included, and What's Extra?
Check whether the price covers the loft and the outside, whether thermal imaging is included or extra, and what a re-inspection of the developer's repairs costs.
9. Is the Price Fixed?
Most firms price by bedrooms. Make sure the quote is fixed, including any travel charge. Typical prices are in our guide to what a snagging survey costs.
How Ashbridge Answers These
| Check | Ashbridge |
|---|---|
| Professional body | Inspectors are members of a recognised professional body for surveying. Your booking confirmation names your inspector and their body. |
| Independence | We act only for buyers and homeowners, never for developers. |
| Who signs off | Every report is checked by our lead engineer before it reaches you. |
| Checklist | The NHQB Pre-Completion Inspection Checklist, where the Code applies. |
| Report | Within 24 hours, with photos, locations, grades and remedies. See the layout. |
| Price | Fixed by bedrooms, from £325. Re-inspection £150. Get an instant price. |