New Build House Survey/Snagging Advice

[dementedweasel]

Hello all,

We are looking to buy a new build house in south london, and have had our offer accepted. We would normally go for a full structural survey if buying,but the house won't be complete in time for contract exchange.

Can anyone advise on options for surveys and/or snagging checks for new builds in this sort of situation? Eg can we do a survey after exchange etc, what people normally do in this situation, or how snagging works.

Any recommendations of firms specialising in new build surveys/snagging also appreciated.

[HaveToWearHeels]

You will have to have a valuation survey for mortgage purposes and full structural will not be needed.
However you can instruct a company to come and snag for you after completion, they will provide a list of things that will need fixing.
Having bought a few new builds we do this all ourselves, you should have two years guarantee for any snagging issues, however experience has shown that getting a list to the developer ASAP while trades are still on site is the best option.
What developer is it ?

[dementedweasel]

Thanks Haveto. It's Bellway. We are keen to get a structural check even though we don't have to for the mortgage company and are wondering if it is possible/wise to do this, even if need to do so after completion.

[HaveToWearHeels]

It is always possible however you would have to probably complete first, personally I wouldn't bother but if you want to for peace of mind you could. You would just need to find a structural engineer locally that would come out and do it.
Is the house currently being built ? When are you due to exchange and how long after will you complete ?
ie we exchanged on our last new build in October 2007 and completed September 2008 as we bought off plan and then their were delays with the build.