Pre-Completion Inspection
Snagging Survey Experts
Why choose us?
The New Homes Quality Code now grants buyers the right to arrange a Pre-Completion Inspection before Legal Completion occurs. Thanks to its RICS-regulated status, The Professional Snagging Company is qualified to carry out these inspections. Developers who are registered under the Code are required to inform customers of their entitlement to an independent Pre-Completion Inspection.
As a result, developers cannot prevent homeowners from obtaining impartial, third-party assessments to verify that their property has been finished to the expected standards. The growing acceptance of Pre-Completion Inspections among developers is a positive development, providing greater consumer protection and helping to ensure that defects and outstanding issues are identified and resolved at an earlier stage.
Pre Completion Inspection
What’s included?
- Appliances (Cooker, Hob, Fridge, Freezer, Dishwasher, Washing Machine)
- External Walls, Vents and Drains
- Chimney, Roof and Gutters
- Garage, Balcony and Porch
- Health and Safety (Scaffolding, Roads, Footpaths, Tidiness)
- Pre-completion inspection checklist used
- Windows, Glazing and Doors
- Internal Walls and Joinery
- Tiles & Sanitary Ware (Baths, Shower Trays, Basins, Taps, Sinks,Towel Rail)
- Services (Lights, Sockets, Wiring, Consumer Unit, Extractors, Heating, Door Bell)
What is the pre completion inspection process?
The Developer must allow the independent inspector access to carry out the inspection no earlier than five calendar days after the Notice to Complete has been issued, unless the Developer and the Customer mutually agree to an earlier date.
When determining the Legal Completion Notice Period, sufficient time should be provided between the service of the Notice to Complete and the completion date to enable the inspection to be conducted and all required legal processes to be finalised. The standard notice period is expected to be at least fourteen calendar days. However, an alternative timeframe may be agreed between the Developer and the Customer if both parties consent. In most cases, the notice period will be fourteen days, and agreeing to a shorter period is generally discouraged as it may restrict the opportunity to undertake a Pre-Completion Inspection.
It should be noted that the Pre-Completion Inspection must not delay or obstruct Legal Completion in accordance with the Notice to Complete. The Developer is required to act in accordance with Part 3 of the New Homes Quality Code to ensure Customers are treated fairly. For example, the Developer must explain how the Customer will be kept informed of the anticipated completion timetable. Such updates should be provided promptly and regularly to enable appropriate planning and preparation.
The Developer must ensure that all construction sites comply with applicable health and safety legislation and guidance relevant to inspectors carrying out the Pre-Completion Inspection. Customers must be informed of any health and safety requirements that they, or their representatives, must follow when visiting the site. The Developer reserves the right to deny access to an active construction site where the required health and safety measures are not observed.
What is the pre completion inspection checklist?
The Pre-Completion Inspection Checklist has been endorsed by a construction industry focus group in collaboration with the New Homes Quality Board (NHQB). The checklist may be reproduced in electronic or digital form; however, any adaptation must retain all checks and requirements specified in the original document. The NHQB confirms that this is the only checklist that should be used by appropriately qualified inspectors.
To be regarded as a suitably qualified inspector, an individual must:
- Be a member of a recognised professional body with experience in residential property surveying (for example, RICS, RPSA, or equivalent).
- Maintain appropriate Professional Indemnity Insurance.
- Operate only within the limits of their professional competence.
- Use the approved inspection checklist when carrying out inspections.
How can I find a suitably qualified inspector for a Pre Completion Inspection?
Every inspector at The Professional Snagging Company meets—and often exceeds—the benchmark for professional competence and qualification. As one of the UK’s most trusted snagging firms, we have conducted pre-completion inspections on residential developments throughout the country using our proven inspection checklist. Discover what our delighted customers have to say here, or schedule your pre-completion inspection with us today here.