Introduction: Don’t Accept Your New Home Without These Snagging Tips
Just got notified that your new property is ready for handover? Whether you’ve bought an off-plan apartment in Dubai Marina or a newly built villa in Arabian Ranches, snagging your home is a non-negotiable step before you move in or make the final payment.
But snagging isn’t just a checklist — it’s a strategy. These must-know snagging tips will help you avoid developer excuses, missed defects, and expensive post-handover surprises.
What Is Snagging?
Snagging is the process of inspecting a newly constructed or renovated property to identify all visible and hidden defects. A professional snagger creates a snag list — a detailed report developers are required to address, especially within the Defects Liability Period (DLP).
Why Snagging New Builds in Dubai Is Essential
- 🧱 Fast construction = hidden flaws
- 💸 Developers may cut corners near completion
- 📋 You lose leverage after final payment
- 🧰 Snags caught early = free repairs during DLP
- 🛡 It’s your legal proof if things go wrong
✅ Must-Know Tips for Snagging Your New Build Property
Here are practical, field-tested tips that every Dubai property buyer should follow before handover:
🔍 1. Book a Certified Snagging Expert — Not a DIY Walkthrough
Even if you’re experienced in construction or interiors, you won’t have the tools or time to catch everything. Certified snaggers:
- Use tools like moisture meters, thermal scanners, socket testers
- Understand Dubai Municipality and RERA compliance
- Know where developers often hide shortcuts
- Provide professional snag reports accepted by developers
🗓 2. Time It Right — Inspect Before Final Payment
Book your inspection:
- After handover notice is received
- Before making final payment or escrow release
- Before moving in any furniture
- Within the first 12 months (DLP window)
Developers are more responsive before you pay.
🏠 3. Check Every Room, Every Corner
Don’t assume everything works. Professional snaggers inspect:
- Cracks in ceiling/walls
- Skirting alignment
- Paint quality
- Floor tiling levels
- Cabinet doors and soft-close hinges
- Window seals and door locks
- AC airflow in each room
- Balcony railings and drainage
- DB panel and electrical safety
- Bathroom leaks and waterproofing
- Kitchen counter seals and appliance fitting
Miss one item — and you might pay for it later.
💼 4. Request a Snag Report With Photos & Severity Levels
The best snagging companies provide:
- 500+ inspection points
- High-resolution photos with notes
- Defect severity classification (major/minor/cosmetic)
- Clear repair recommendations
- A full PDF report in 24–48 hours
This makes it easy to submit to developers and demand timely rectification.
📢 5. Use the Report to Enforce Repairs — Then Re-Inspect
Once your snag list is submitted:
- ✅ Follow up with the developer
- ✅ Give them time to fix (usually 7–14 days)
- ✅ Request a re-inspection if needed
- ✅ Keep a record of communication
- ✅ Document “before and after” for warranty protection
Real Case: Tips That Saved AED 34,000 in Future Fixes
A first-time buyer in Jumeirah Village Circle followed our must-know tips:
- Booked the inspection 3 days after handover notice
- Delayed final payment until snag fixes were confirmed
- Used the report to push the developer to fix 66 issues — including major AC insulation failures, poorly grouted bathrooms, and unsafe electrical wiring
Result: Full rectification within 10 days, no post-move-in expenses, and AED 34,000 saved.
Bonus Tip: Snagging Isn’t Just for Homes
Snagging also applies to:
- 🏢 Offices
- 🏨 Short-term rental units
- 🛠️ Renovated properties
- 🏗️ Fit-outs and extensions
If work has been done — it should be inspected.
Conclusion: Smart Buyers Snag Early
Snagging isn’t about being picky. It’s about ensuring your home is safe, complete, and worth what you paid. These must-know tips for snagging new build properties in Dubai will help you avoid regret — and move in with peace of mind.
✅ Ready to Snag Your New Build Property?
📱 WhatsApp: +971 56 378 7002
🌐 Visit: dubaipropertysnagging.ae
📝 Get your certified snagging report in 12 hours | Starting AED 499 | Dubai-wide service | Pay with Tabby
We are certified by DED, approved by RERA, and proudly InterNACHI-accredited — delivering trusted, precise, and professional snagging inspections across Dubai.
