Snagging Lists: What They Are and Why They Matter

Snagging lists are a critical tool in construction project management, yet they're often misunderstood or poorly executed. This guide explains what snagging lists are, why they matter, and how to use them effectively.

What Is a Snagging List?

A snagging list (also called a punch list or defects list) is a document that identifies defects, incomplete items, or quality issues that need to be addressed before final handover of a construction project.

Purpose of Snagging Lists

Snagging lists serve several important purposes:

Quality Assurance: Ensures work meets agreed standards
Documentation: Creates a clear record of outstanding items
Communication: Provides clear instructions to contractors
Accountability: Tracks responsibility for rectification
Handover Preparation: Ensures space is ready for occupation

When Are Snagging Lists Created?

Snagging typically occurs at specific project stages:

Practical Completion Stage

The main snagging inspection usually happens when works are substantially complete but before final handover. This is the most critical snagging stage.

Interim Inspections

Some projects have interim snagging inspections at key milestones to catch issues early.

Post-Occupation Snagging

Defects may be identified after occupation, particularly those only visible in use (e.g., heating performance, drainage issues).

What Should a Snagging List Include?

An effective snagging list contains specific, actionable information:

Essential Information

Each snagging item should include:

Location: Specific room and position
Description: Clear description of the defect
Trade: Which trade is responsible
Priority: Critical, important, or minor
Photograph: Visual evidence where helpful
Reference: Drawing or specification reference if applicable

Example Entries

Good snagging entry: "Bedroom 2, north wall: Paint scuff 1.2m from door frame, 1.5m from floor. Requires touch-up. (Photo ref: IMG_123)"

Poor snagging entry: "Paint touch-up needed"

The first entry is specific and actionable. The second is vague and unhelpful.

Common Snagging Items

Typical snagging issues include:

Decorating

Paint scuffs, marks, or poor coverage
Uneven paint lines at edges
Visible filler or preparation marks
Splashes on adjacent surfaces

Carpentry

Door alignment and operation
Gaps in architrave or skirting
Rough or unfinished edges
Ironmongery loose or misaligned

Flooring

Scratches or damage
Gaps at edges or transitions
Uneven surfaces
Transition strips missing or poorly fitted

Plumbing

Leaks or drips
Poor silicone sealing
Fixtures loose or misaligned
Water pressure issues

Electrical

Faceplates crooked or damaged
Switches or sockets not working
Light fittings loose or incomplete
Visible cables or poor finishing

General

Cleaning required
Debris or waste not removed
Protective coverings not removed
Damage to completed works

Who Creates the Snagging List?

Different parties may be involved:

Client or Client Representative

Often creates the primary snagging list, representing the client's quality expectations.

Project Manager or Clerk of Works

May conduct snagging inspections on behalf of the client.

Main Contractor

Often conducts pre-snagging to identify and rectify issues before client inspection.

Independent Snagging Surveyor

Some clients engage specialist snagging surveyors for thorough independent inspection.

How to Conduct an Effective Snagging Inspection

Follow a systematic approach:

Preparation

Schedule inspection at appropriate stage
Ensure good lighting available
Bring camera, notepad, and measuring tools
Have drawings and specifications to hand
Allow sufficient time (don't rush)

Systematic Approach

Work room by room
Follow a consistent pattern (e.g., clockwise from door)
Check walls, ceilings, floors, fixtures
Test all operable items (doors, windows, switches)
Look from multiple angles and distances

Documentation

Photograph all defects
Note exact locations
Be specific in descriptions
Number items for easy reference
Categorise by trade or priority

Managing the Snagging Process

Once the list is created, effective management is essential:

Distribution

Share list promptly with contractor
Ensure all relevant parties have copies
Clarify any ambiguous items
Agree rectification programme

Tracking

Monitor progress on rectification
Update list as items completed
Conduct re-inspection
Document completion with photographs

Re-Snagging

Inspect rectified items
Identify any new issues caused during rectification
Ensure quality of repairs matches original work
Sign off completed items

Common Snagging Challenges

Be aware of typical issues:

Disagreement on Standards

What one party considers a defect, another may see as acceptable. Reference specifications and industry standards to resolve disputes.

Incomplete Rectification

Items marked as complete may not meet standards. Always re-inspect before sign-off.

New Damage During Rectification

Trades returning to rectify items may cause new damage. Protect completed works and inspect after rectification.

Time Pressure

Pressure to handover can lead to incomplete snagging. Maintain quality standards despite time constraints.

Snagging in Different Project Types

Approaches vary by project type:

New Build Residential

Typically comprehensive snagging at practical completion, with defects period for post-occupation issues.

Refurbishment

May have phased snagging as areas complete, particularly in occupied buildings.

Commercial Fit-Out

Often tight handover deadlines require efficient snagging process and rapid rectification.

Best Practices

Follow these principles for effective snagging:

Be Thorough: Better to over-document than miss items
Be Specific: Vague descriptions lead to disputes
Be Fair: Distinguish between defects and design choices
Be Timely: Conduct snagging at the right stage
Be Systematic: Follow a consistent approach
Be Professional: Focus on facts, not opinions

Conclusion

Snagging lists are essential for ensuring construction projects meet quality standards before handover. An effective snagging process requires systematic inspection, clear documentation, and professional management of rectification.

Whether you're a client, contractor, or project manager, understanding and implementing proper snagging procedures ensures better outcomes and smoother handovers.

Need professional finishing works or snagging rectification? Contact Mitchell Contracting for expert assistance.