Snagging Surveys in Cornwall | Independent New Build Inspections
“Independent chartered professional with 30+ years’ experience and hundreds of inspections across housing and construction.”
Buying a new-build home? You shouldn’t have to simply hope it’s been built right.
Moving into a new home should feel exciting - not uncertain. Yet many buyers only discover issues after completion, once the builder has moved on. New homes can look immaculate on the surface, while defects in workmanship, detailing, or compliance remain hidden.
I provide independent, methodical snagging inspections to help identify issues early, protect your investment, and ensure your home meets the standard you were promised - not just visually, but technically.
Every inspection is carried out by me personally. I am a degree-qualified Engineer, a Chartered Member of the Association of Building Engineers (MCABE), and a professional member of the ICWCI, with over 30 years’ experience across civil engineering, commercial construction, and house building - including roles as a housing site manager and construction inspector.
My work spans a wide range of new-build homes, from first-time buyer properties through to high-value bespoke houses. The inspection standard does not change with the price of the home - the same level of scrutiny is applied in every case.
Having lived, worked, and built in both the South West and Cornwall, I am familiar with the practical realities that affect build quality in different locations - including coastal exposure, weather-driven workmanship issues, and the pressures of remote or phased developments. This context informs how I inspect, what I look for, and how findings are assessed.
You will receive a clear, photo-illustrated report - typically within 48 hours - written in plain language but robust enough to stand up to builder scrutiny. My role is not to side with the developer, but to give you the clarity and leverage you need to get issues addressed properly.
Truly independent. Working only for you.
View pricing based on house size, what’s included, and optional follow-up visits. No VAT, no hidden fees.
Extra help if your builder pushes back after the snagging report.
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“Simon is extremely knowledgeable and professional with years of experience. His advice and aftercare have been invaluable, and he made the whole process of dealing with developers much easier. We’ll be using him again for our 18-month inspection before the 2-year warranty ends.”
— Lis L, Google Review
Find answers below to the 20 most common questions buyers ask - FAQ & Buyer Guide
My Services
Snagging Inspections – Before Or After You Move In
Get peace of mind—whether you’ve just moved in or are preparing to.
If you're buying a new-build home, a snagging inspection is one of the most effective ways to protect your investment and avoid unwanted surprises.
While the New Homes Quality Code (NHQC) allows for a basic Pre-Completion Inspection (PCI), we specialise in comprehensive post-completion snagging inspections. These are carried out once you've legally completed and have full access to your new home — allowing for a far more thorough assessment using professional tools, technical knowledge, and industry-recognised standards.
Already moved in? You're not too late.
Many issues only become visible after you've settled in. Even if your builder has signed off the property, you still have the right to report defects within the first two years under your warranty. I’ll help you identify issues and prepare a clear, photographic report to support your case.Wherever you are in the process, you’ll receive a detailed, builder-ready report — clearly presented, fully referenced, and designed to help you get the right outcome.
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Services Available:
Post-Completion Snagging - detailed, independent & professionally equipped
Warranty Period End Checks - to catch defects before it’s too late to raise a claim
Clear, photo-illustrated reports - builder ready, jargon free
NHQC-aware process based on industry best practice - our inspections align with the spirit of the New Homes Quality Code, but go well beyond it’s limited pre-completion visual only checks
👉 When Should I Book My Snagging Inspection?
We recommend scheduling your snagging inspection ahead of your legal completion date. While we understand that completion dates can sometimes change, booking in advance allows us to allocate time for your inspection and adjust as needed. Please keep us informed of any changes to your completion date so we can ensure your inspection is conducted promptly after you take possession of your new home.
Most new-build homes come with a 10-year warranty
Under the terms of most new-build warranties — including NHBC, Premier, and LABC — your builder is responsible for putting right defects reported during the first two years.
After that, the builder is no longer responsible for most defects, and the warranty provider typically only covers major structural issues. This means cosmetic problems, poor finishes, and non-structural faults are often no longer covered — and you're left to deal with them yourself.
If you're approaching the end of that 2-year window, a Warranty Deadline Inspection can help catch unresolved snags or hidden defects — giving you one last opportunity to raise them before time runs out.
It’s a smart, one-time check for peace of mind — and potential savings down the line.
Book now to make the most of your builder’s warranty while it’s still active.