Buying a new-build home should feel like a dream come true—but for many homeowners, rushed completions can quickly turn that dream into a list of unexpected issues. As developers push to hit end-of-quarter or financial year deadlines, quality can sometimes take a back seat. So what does this mean for you as a new-build buyer?
Let’s explore how rushed completions happen, the impact they have on your home, and what you can do to protect your investment.
There’s a lot of pressure on developers to complete homes quickly. Whether it’s financial year-end targets, investor expectations, or eligibility deadlines for government schemes like Help to Buy, the incentive to hand over homes before a certain date is high.
To meet these deadlines, developers may fast-track finishing work, skip thorough quality checks, or rush multiple trades to work simultaneously—all of which increase the chances of snags and defects being missed.
When speed becomes the priority, quality often suffers. We frequently see homes where:
These aren’t just cosmetic issues—they can affect the functionality, value, and long-term performance of your home.
Wondering if your home was handed over too soon? Common signs of a rushed build include:
If any of these sound familiar, it’s a strong sign your home may not have been fully checked before completion.
A professional snagging inspection can make all the difference. At The House Inspector, we thoroughly inspect your property from top to bottom—inside and out—to uncover the issues you might miss.
We know exactly what to look for in rushed builds, from poorly installed insulation to roofline defects. Our detailed reports help you hold your developer accountable and ensure repairs are made under warranty.
If you’re wondering what an inspection costs, you can view our snagging inspection prices here—clear, transparent, and no hidden fees.
If you suspect your new-build home was completed in a hurry, don’t panic—there are clear steps you can take to get things back on track.
1. Book a professional snagging inspection
The sooner you get an independent inspection, the better. A comprehensive snagging report gives you solid evidence of any defects or unfinished work, which you can present to your builder.
2. Act within your 2-year developer warranty window
Most developers are obligated to fix issues reported within the first two years of completion. Submit your snagging report promptly and keep a record of all correspondence.
3. Communicate in writing
When raising defects, always follow up in writing. This creates a paper trail and ensures your concerns are formally acknowledged. Include photos where possible, and keep copies of emails, letters, and reports.
4. Escalate to your warranty provider if necessary
If your builder doesn’t respond or refuses to carry out repairs, you can escalate the issue to your structural warranty provider—such as NHBC or LABC. These providers offer dispute resolution services and may step in to enforce corrective action.
Not sure how NHBC works or what it covers? Read our full guide to understanding NHBC warranties to get informed before you escalate.
Remember, your new-build is a major investment—and you have every right to expect it to be finished to a professional standard. Taking action early gives you the best chance of getting issues resolved without added stress or cost.
While rushed completions are frustratingly common, you don’t have to live with the consequences. By acting early and bringing in a professional snagging inspector, you can ensure your home is safe, sound, and finished to the standard you deserve.
Contact us today to book your snagging inspection and protect your new-build investment.
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