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Your new-build comes with an NHBC Buildmark warranty. Many buyers assume this means their property is protected against defects. It isn't — not in the way you think.
The NHBC warranty does not cover snagging defects. Here is what it actually covers — and why a professional snagging inspection is still essential.
The key point
Everything in the 'No' column above — the finish quality, functioning systems, appliances, doors, windows — is not covered by the NHBC. It is covered by your developer's 2-year defects liability. You need a snagging inspection to document these and compel the developer to fix them.
Your developer is responsible for ALL defects — structural and cosmetic. The NHBC provides dispute resolution if the developer fails to fix legitimate issues, but the developer pays. This is your snagging window. A professional inspection in this period is essential to document everything the developer must fix.
The NHBC covers structural defects and major waterproofing failures. This is the 'insurance' element. Cosmetic and finish defects are no longer covered by anyone — you pay.
The Buildmark warranty expires. You are fully responsible for all maintenance and repairs.
There is no such thing as an 'NHBC snagging inspection' as a product or service. The NHBC inspects properties during construction to ensure they meet their standards — but this is not a snagging inspection, and buyers do not have access to the NHBC inspector's reports.
What you need is a professional independent snagging inspection — carried out by an experienced builder or inspector — that documents the actual condition of your property at handover. This is what BluntSnag provides: a thorough room-by-room inspection, written report with photographs, and real repair cost estimates for each defect.
Can the NHBC help if my developer refuses to fix my snags?
In years 1–2, the NHBC offers a Resolution Service. If your developer refuses to address legitimate snagging defects and you have written evidence of reporting them, you can escalate to NHBC. They will mediate. However, the NHBC's resolution process can be slow — a professional written snag list from an independent inspection is your strongest starting point for getting the developer to act without escalation.
Does the NHBC inspect my flat before I move in?
NHBC inspectors visit during construction to check that building work meets NHBC standards. You do not receive a copy of their inspections, and their role is not to create a snag list for you as a buyer. Their inspections are for warranty registration purposes. You still need your own independent snagging inspection before completion.
What if my developer isn't NHBC registered?
Not all developers use the NHBC. Some use alternative warranty providers such as Premier Guarantee or LABC Warranty. The 2-year defects liability with the developer applies regardless of warranty provider — it is a legal obligation under UK contract law, not an NHBC policy.
The NHBC warranty does not protect you from snagging defects. A professional BluntSnag inspection does — by finding and documenting every defect before your developer's 2-year obligation expires.