Property Snagging in Dubai: Process & Timeline
When you purchase a new property in Dubai, whether it’s an apartment, villa, or commercial space, you want to make sure it meets your expectations and is free of any defects. This is where property snagging comes in. Snagging is the process of inspecting a property to identify any issues, defects, or unfinished work before you take full possession. It’s an essential step to ensure that your investment is in top condition and that you won’t face unexpected repair costs later on.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through the property snagging process in Dubai and give you an idea of the timeline involved.
What is Property Snagging?
Property snagging refers to a detailed inspection of a newly built or newly renovated property to identify defects or issues that need fixing before you officially take possession. The inspection checks various aspects of the property, from structural defects to finishing touches like paint, flooring, and fixtures.
The goal is to ensure that everything is up to standard, complies with the building code, and that no issues are overlooked. Snagging typically occurs just before or after the completion of construction, allowing the developer or builder to make any necessary repairs before handover.
The Snagging Process in Dubai
The process of snagging involves several key steps, each designed to ensure a thorough inspection of your property. Let’s break down the typical snagging process:
1. Pre-Snagging Preparation
Before the actual inspection, you’ll want to ensure the property is ready for a snagging check. This means that:
- The property should be fully constructed with all features in place (e.g., flooring, plumbing, electrical systems, kitchen, and bathroom fixtures).
- The developer or builder should have completed all final touch-ups, although there may still be minor fixes that need to be identified.
It’s also a good idea to check your contract to ensure that all deliverables are met by the developer. This is the time to gather any specific concerns or issues you’ve noticed while reviewing the property before the inspection.
2. Hiring a Snagging Specialist
Hiring a professional snagging company or specialist is a crucial part of the process. While you can conduct a basic visual inspection yourself, snagging specialists are experts who know exactly what to look for. They are trained to identify both visible and hidden issues, which could easily be missed by an untrained eye.
The snagging company will send certified inspectors who will conduct a detailed, systematic review of the property. They’ll check everything from structural elements to minor cosmetic issues, ensuring the property is up to standard.
3. Conducting the Inspection
The snagging inspection typically takes between 2 to 6 hours depending on the size and complexity of the property. For example, a small apartment might take less time, while a larger villa or multi-story building may require more time to inspect.
During the inspection, the snagging specialist will go through every part of the property and create a comprehensive list of defects. These defects can be classified into different categories:
- Minor Issues: These might include cosmetic issues like paint touch-ups, small scratches on floors, or slight misalignments in fixtures.
- Major Issues: More significant problems might include structural issues like cracks in walls, faulty plumbing or electrical systems, or broken fixtures.
- Compliance Issues: Any areas where the property doesn’t meet the agreed-upon specifications or building codes.
The snagging report will list all of these issues with clear descriptions, photos, and recommendations for how they should be addressed.
4. Snagging Report
Once the inspection is complete, the snagging company will provide a detailed snagging report. This document will outline all identified defects, including their severity, location, and potential solutions. The report is crucial for you as the buyer because it serves as a formal record of the property’s condition at the time of inspection.
The report will typically include:
- Photos of the identified defects
- A description of each issue
- Possible solutions and suggestions for repairs
- A timeline for when repairs should be completed
You’ll need this report to request that the developer or builder fixes the identified issues before final handover.
5. Communicating with the Developer
After receiving the snagging report, it’s time to communicate with the developer or builder. The report will serve as your official documentation for requesting repairs or corrections. Developers are generally obligated to fix the issues identified in the report, especially if they’re related to structural or compliance issues.
Many developers in Dubai offer a warranty period during which they are legally required to make repairs. The snagging report will help ensure that repairs are completed before the handover process, so you don’t have to deal with unexpected issues later on.
6. Follow-Up Inspections
In some cases, after the repairs are completed, you may need to schedule a follow-up inspection. This ensures that the defects have been properly addressed and that no new issues have arisen during the repair process.
The follow-up inspection is typically a shorter visit to verify that the developer has completed the necessary work. If there are still outstanding issues, the snagging company can work with the developer to ensure the problems are resolved.
Timeline for Property Snagging in Dubai
The timeline for snagging can vary depending on the specific circumstances, but here’s a general breakdown of the typical timeline:
1. Initial Inspection
The initial snagging inspection usually takes place shortly before the official handover date or just after the completion of construction. This inspection can typically be scheduled within a few days to a week before the handover.
2. Receiving the Snagging Report
After the inspection, the snagging company usually provides the report within 2 to 5 business days. This timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the inspection and the company’s workload.
3. Developer’s Repair Time
Once the snagging report is shared with the developer, they will typically need 1 to 4 weeks to address and fix the identified issues. Major issues may take longer, especially if they require significant construction work.
4. Follow-Up Inspection (If Necessary)
If a follow-up inspection is needed to verify that the repairs have been made, it can be scheduled within a week or two after the developer has completed the repairs.
5. Final Handover
Once all issues are addressed, and both the buyer and developer are satisfied, the final handover can take place. This is typically 2 to 6 weeks after the initial snagging inspection, depending on the extent of the repairs.
Conclusion
The property snagging process in Dubai is a crucial step in ensuring that your new home or investment is free from defects and up to standard before you move in. By hiring a professional snagging company, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that experts are inspecting your property for any issues—big or small.
Although the snagging process may take a few weeks from inspection to final handover, it’s worth the time and effort. Addressing defects early on will save you from expensive repairs down the line and ensure that your property is safe, functional, and ready for occupancy.
Whether you’re purchasing a high-end villa or a city apartment, investing in snagging services will help protect your investment and ensure you’re happy with your new property from day one.
