New Home Inspection Experts
Here at George Laurel & Partners only Chartered Surveyors who are Members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors - RICS - will inspect your home.
We are a Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Registered Firm with over 30 years’ experience in diagnosing and resolving building defects. We have worked with thousands of homeowners to achieve a successful resolution to their property issues.
Our tеаm оf highly ԛuаlifiеd and experienced Chartered Surveyors, undertake a methodical and thorough approach to each property. We complete an RICS Inspection and Report and not just a 'snagging list'.
'Snagging' is a word often used for inspecting new build houses, but 'snagging' only refers to 'a small defect or problem that remains in your property after the building work has been completed. It is typically something that is damaged or broken; not fitted properly or looks unfinished – think a scratch on a window or a missing hinge on a door'.
So a 'Snagging Inspection' is only part of what is required. A ‘Snagging Inspector’ is not qualified to comment upon structural issues. If a new home is going to be your biggest investment why settle for half a job?
Do I need a survey for a
new-build home?
The answer is - YES
Over a third of New Build Homes in the UK have up to 200 defects.
Our inspection will identify issues of workmanship, structural defects and non compliance with Building Regulations & Warranty Standards.
If the Survey comes back with any problems, we will help you to get them resolved by developer and not leave you alone to fight your corner.
Ideally the survey should be completed before you move in, however, you have two years to notify the developer of any issues or concerns from the date of purchase….so don’t delay.
So Does Your New Home Meet Your Expectations?
A new home is a huge investment so hopefully yours is all you wanted it to be and if that’s the case, we wish you all the very best.
But what if things aren’t perfect and quite as you had hoped or expected – what then? Well read on - you’re not alone.
You may have seen in the press that for some new home owners the quality of build can deliver some unexpected and unpleasant surprises, turning the home of your dreams into the house of your nightmares.
What is a 'Snagging' Inspection?
'Snagging' is a term used in the construction industry to refer to the process of identifying and rectifying minor defects and unfinished work in a newly-built property before it is handed over to the buyer.
'Snagging' typically includes checking for issues such as hairline cracks in walls, poorly fitted doors, and other cosmetic and functional problems. The purpose of 'snagging' is to ensure that the property is completed to a high standard and is ready for occupation.
However, due to the speed at which homes are constructed today this often leads to defects throughout the property. Unfortunately, it is becoming increasingly more common that these defects are no-longer minor, meaning a more detailed inspection is required.
Our New Build Inspection
Moving home is rated as No.2 on the life events scale,
so why take the risk of making it any worst?
Our inspection of your new home is not just a 'snagging' list. The issues that New Build homeowners are facing now require something more, something better. Our inspection is carried out by an RICS Chartered Surveyor.
New Build inspections are more important than ever. Each successive Government demands more new houses to be built, applying pressure to developers to deliver. Unfortunately there is a huge skills shortage. As a result, mistakes happen.
We are fully conversant with the requirements of the Building Regulations. Many 'snagging' companies only refer to NHBC Guidelines, we have in depth knowledge of the standards and requirements of all of the major warranty providers.
Our inspection is extremely comprehensive and detailed, covering the property from top to bottom, inside and out. It is not generated by generic computer software. Our inspection is bespoke to your property and you.
Should we identify any defects, we stay with you through the process, making sure the developer completes the works required and to the correct standard. You will not be left on your own.
NINE REASONS TO CALL GEORGE LAUREL & PARTNERS....
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Your house survey is undertaken, checked and double checked by fully qualified chartered surveyors and engineers with over 30 years’ experience, so that your report is right first time.
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When you ring us, you talk to a Director; so you get the answers you want right away.
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You'll get FREE advice - if you don't need us, we'll tell you. And we'll point you in the right direction for what you do need.
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We'll explain any terms or practices you may not understand; no obligation.
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No surprises. When you get our quote, you know exactly how much it's going to cost. No hidden extras or costs down the track - A proper accurate evaluation first time.
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We complete a thermal imaging inspection to check for missing insulation, radiator and underfloor heating performance.
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Our house survey includes a 10 page glossary of unfamiliar building terms to help you understand our report better.
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Our house survey also includes a 4 page future Property Maintenance Checklist providing a simple-to-follow maintenance guide to help you keep your biggest investment in the best possible condition.
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100% guarantee. As we are members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors it means your house survey is carried out by someone who is accountable to a professional code of ethics. In addition to this, if you are ever dissatisfied with our service, we will do whatever we have to make it right.
No other surveying firm offers these guarantees to you - but we figure that if they're not willing to put their money where their mouth is, why should you?
That's our guarantee - Call us now on 08456 349173.
By choosing George Laurel & Partners you get an honest impartial written assessment which tells you exactly what you are getting for your money, and gives you security that there will be no hidden nasty surprises or expenses lying in wait for you.
New Homes Quality Board
Firstly, if you are wondering who the New Homes Quality Board (NHQB) are, they are a not-for-profit independent body.
The NHQB is responsible for a new framework to oversee and monitor the build quality and customer service that is provided by the developers of new build homes.
It was launched in 2022, with a new framework called The New Homes Quality Code (NHQC).
The NHQC has been developed over the last 5 years and aims to plug the current gaps in existing consumer codes. This should result in better protection for the purchasers of new build homes.
Although, not mandatory, it is expected that most major Builders and Developers will sign up to this code. The new code will ensure homeowners are protected throughout the entire process from viewing, right up to two years after purchasing.
Whilst this is a welcomed long awaited initiative, it must only be considered as a 'good start'. The recommended inspection checklist is only really useful for identifying 'snagging' items as described above. We believe that the general quality of construction at the present time requires a more detailed inspection by a Qualified Professional RICS Chartered Surveyor.
To abide by the NHQB’s requirements for the Pre Completion Inspection, we are:
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A member of Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
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We hold relevant and adequate Professional Indemnity Insurance.
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We follow the agreed checklist for the Pre-Completion Inspection by New Homes Quality Board (NHQB). However, this is considered to be a minimum requirement.
Testimonials
Trevor Hosland - Stevenage, Hertfordshire
"I was recommended to George Laurel & Partner as the surveyors capable of identifying issues with my new house we had bought in 2021.
It was apparent from my first introduction to Daniel Hardingham that objectivity and integrity were at the fore front of what George Laurel did.
here is a passion for what they do and it shines through.The thorough survey and subsequent report enabled us to ensure the builders carried out all issues identified to the standards specified within building regulations and gave us the peace of mind to enjoy our new home.
I have no doubt that Daniel’s experience and expertise in identifying issues at this stage and ensuring they were put right will save us a considerable amount of money further down the line.
I would suggest that having a company like George Laurel and Partners involved in what is probably the biggest financial commitment you will make is essential and based on my experience to date, I have no hesitation in recommending their services."