Grand Designs ask Experts CLPM about Snagging
If your self-build or renovation project is coming to its end, you will want to be using your new space as soon as possible. However, before you can sign off the work as completed, it’s important to make sure it’s been completed to a high standard with no defects.
Read this blog for some expert guidance on how the snagging process works, provided by CLPM Construction Project Consultancy. You can read the whole article in Grand Designs Magazine, but we summarise the main points here.
What is snagging?
Snagging is a colloquial term, but it’s used widely throughout the construction industry. It will be more than likely that your builders and project manager may use it in regards to your build.
A snagging list generally refers to a list of tasks that need to be completed before the Practical Completion of a project. It will usually include fixing work that is damaged, broken or has not be fitted correctly. “Examples might include a large scratch on a wall, a missing handle on a cupboard, or a faulty tap”. “Most snags tend to be cosmetic, however more serious defects can arise such as poor tiling of a bathroom or radiators than don’t work properly.”
How does snagging work?
For a residential self-build or renovation project, the snagging process is likely to take place a few weeks before Practical Completion. It should be led by the project manager alongside the client. At this point everywhere on the site should be clean and accessible. All tools, alongside protective materials over flooring and surfaces, should have been removed from the site.
It is important to be meticulous during this process. Keep dated records, put all information in writing and ask for confirmation of receipt to any emails sent. “Snags are notorious for potentially becoming the subject of argument or even litigation long after completion. As it is possible for occupants to accidentally cause damage after handover, sometimes capturing and documenting photographic evidence at this point can be a useful exercise.
After the snagging process concludes, the project manager will issue a snag list. This is a list of tasks to be rectified at the builder’s expense before Practical Completion.
Can I move in before snagging?
By this point, your home will still be largely inhabitable. You’ll no doubt be keen to move back into your property, or start to make use of the new extended space. This will be at the discretion of the project manager. We advise that there are certain routes to allow clients to move back home before a snagging list has been finished. However, those snags should be identified before this happens.
A Schedule of Significant Items, which outlines due work, could be attached to the certificate of Practical Completion for example, or in certain circumstances a client may be happy to settle for an unresolved snag in exchange for a discount on the final account.
Is this the last time builders will fix any issues?
It’s important that all parties are happy before Practical Completion of the project. Whether with the snags undertaken, or with the certificate stipulating work to be completed. Gas and electrical safety certificates are required for Practical Completion, as is Building Control sign off.
After Practical Completion, your insurance must be in place. This will end the builder’s responsibility for this, and it will also signify the release of half of the retention as stated in your building contract.
It also marks the start of the Defects Liability Period, which can last between 3-12 months as set out in your contract. Think of this as the period of time between snagging and a re-inspection, allowing any extra works to be carried out by a team familiar with the build. Only after the Defects Liability Period is up will the final retention for the project be released.
For more information on the Defects Liability Period, consult the CLPM Construction Project Consultancy website.
CLPM
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Grand Designs ask Experts CLPM about Snagging
