Buying a new home is exciting - but before you unpack the kettle, there's one essential step you shouldn’t skip: the snag list. Whether you're a first-time buyer or moving into a new build home, a snag list helps ensure your home is finished to the standard you expect. It also plays a key role in safeguarding your investment, especially when it comes to securing your home insurance. 

What is a Snag List?

If you’ve ever wondered what the meaning of a snag list is, you’re not alone. Put simply, it’s a detailed checklist of issues or defects in a new property that need to be fixed by the builder before handover. These snags can range from minor cosmetic flaws like chipped paint or loose sockets to more serious problems such as faulty plumbing, poor insulation, or badly fitted windows.
 

Why a Snag List is Essential in Ireland

A thorough snag list process in Ireland protects you from having to deal with (and pay for) construction errors down the line. In Ireland, snagging is common practice before closing on a new build. Many buyers hire professional snagging surveyors to inspect the property and flag defects. 

Whether you're buying a home in the countryside or commissioning a snag list in Dublin, the aim is the same: to ensure your home is safe, functional, and finished properly before you move in. 

You can also check out the CCPC’s home buying guide for a clear breakdown of each stage of the process, including inspections and contracts. 

  

When and How to Use a Snag List

When to Do It

A snag list for your new house should be completed once the builder declares the home ready for handover, but before you accept the keys. This gives the builder time to fix any issues and allows for a re-inspection if needed. 

A professional inspection typically costs around €220–€250; a small but smart investment when you’re already budgeting for stamp duty, legal fees, and other new home costs.

Who Should Do It

You can complete the list yourself, but hiring a qualified snagging inspector or surveyor ensures a thorough review. A professional snag list survey can identify structural, mechanical, and safety concerns that may be invisible to the untrained eye. 

  

What’s Included in a Snag List

A snag list for a new house should cover both cosmetic and functional defects across the entire property, inside and out. Common items on a snag list form might include:  

   1. Walls not painted evenly or with patchy finishes 

   2. Misaligned doors or windows that stick 

   3. Cracks in ceilings or walls 

   4. Loose tiles or uneven flooring 

   5. Missing insulation 

   6. Faulty sockets, switches, or appliances 

   7. Poor water pressure or leaky taps 

You should also have them inspect garden areas, pathways, fencing, and exterior lighting. Essentially, your list should reflect everything that doesn’t match the agreed spec or building standards. 

For official guidance on construction requirements, the Irish Government’s Building Regulations page outlines safety and quality benchmarks. 

  

Why It Matters for House Insurance

Your snag list doesn’t just make life easier, it can impact your insurance too. Undiscovered faults can lead to problems that aren’t covered by your policy if they were present before cover started. For example, unnoticed roof damage or poor wiring could result in claims being rejected. By catching these issues early, you protect both your property and your peace of mind. 

Your new home is likely the biggest purchase you'll ever make, so it’s worth doing right. A detailed snag list not only holds your builder accountable but also ensures your home is as perfect as it should be before you move in. 

Whether you're getting a snag list for a new build or a professional survey, don’t overlook this final, crucial step. 

  

Protect Your Home from Day One

At Insure My House, we believe in giving homeowners the tools to feel secure, informed, and empowered. Once your list is complete, make sure your home is protected with the right house
insurance.  

Explore our website today to get a quick quote and peace of mind from the start.