Buying a new build home is an exciting milestone for many UK homeowners. The promise of modern design, energy efficiency, and a fresh start through Buying a new home without the baggage of previous owners often makes these properties an attractive option. However, as with any major purchase, it’s not without its challenges. According to recent surveys from organisations like the Home Builders Federation and housing charity Shelter, a significant number of new-build buyers encounter faults post-purchase. In fact, over 93% of new homeowners report issues ranging from minor cosmetic defects to more serious structural problems.

Understanding New Build Faults: Why Do They Happen?

New build homes are constructed at a rapid pace to meet the UK’s housing demand, with developers often prioritising speed and volume over meticulous craftsmanship. This can lead to oversights during the building process. Factors such as subcontractor pressures, material shortages, and variable weather conditions contribute to these issues. Unlike older properties, which have settled over time, new builds can experience shrinkage, cracking, and other adjustments in the first few years as materials dry out and the structure stabilises.

It’s worth noting that not all new builds are problematic. Many are built to high standards under schemes like the New Homes Quality Code or warranties from providers such as the National House Building Council . However, awareness is key. A professional snagging survey typically costing between you can uncover hidden defects before they escalate. Competitors like the HomeOwners Alliance (HOA) emphasise that early detection through independent inspections is crucial, as builders may overlook or downplay issues during their own checks.

The Role of Snagging in New Builds

Snagging refers to the process of identifying and listing defects in a new property shortly after completion. This is a standard part of the new build journey, and most contracts allow buyers a window to report issues. A snagging list might include anything from aesthetic flaws to functional failures. According to HOA data, around 26% of buyers report more than 15 snags, highlighting how widespread these can be.

Top Common New Build Faults in UK Homes

Based on reports from Shelter, HBF, and insights from builders’ merchants like Hitchcock & King, here are some of the most frequently encountered problems in new build properties. We’ve categorised them for clarity, including tips on spotting and fixing them.

1. Poorly Fitting Windows and Doors

One of the most reported issues is ill-fitting windows and doors, which can lead to draughts, water ingress, and increased energy bills. In colder months, gaps around frames become apparent, allowing heat to escape and potentially causing condensation or mold.

• Why it happens: Frames may bow during installation, or sealant might be applied unevenly due to rushed work.
• How to spot it: Check for visible gaps, listen for whistling winds, or use a smoke pencil to detect draughts. Inspect during different weather conditions.
• What to do: Add this to your snagging list and notify your builder immediately. Under a standard NHBC warranty, they should rectify it free of charge within the first two years. If ignored, escalate to the New Homes Ombudsman Service (NHOS), which can award up to £75,000 in compensation for upheld complaints.

In a Reddit discussion on r/HousingUK, users shared experiences of windows that “rattled in the wind,” underscoring the need for professional snagging inspectors to catch these early.

2. Defective Pointing and Brickwork

Pointing—the mortar between bricks—must be continuous and weatherproof. Gaps or crumbling can allow water to penetrate, leading to damp, frost damage, or even structural weakening over time.

• Why it happens: Substandard mortar mix or hurried application during construction.
• How to spot it: Look for cracks, missing sections, or discolouration on external walls. Water stains inside could indicate penetration.
• What to do: Document with photos and report to your developer. Repointing is a common fix, often covered under warranty. For severe cases, consult a structural engineer. Blogs like Planna.co note that poor brickwork is among the top 10 issues in UK homes, affecting insulation and aesthetics.

3. Inadequate or Missing Insulation

Proper insulation is vital for energy efficiency, keeping homes warm in winter and cool in summer. Poorly fitted loft insulation or cavity wall gaps can result in higher heating costs and fail to meet Part L building regulations.

• Why it happens: Insulation might be compressed, omitted in sections, or damaged during other works.
• How to spot it: Uneven room temperatures, cold spots on walls, or unusually high energy bills. A thermal imaging camera (available for hire) can reveal gaps.
• What to do: Request a re-inspection from your builder. If unresolved, warranty providers like Premier Guarantee can intervene in years 3-10 for structural elements. Hitchcock & King highlights that fixing this early prevents long-term issues like mold growth.

4. Guttering and Drainage Problems

Faulty guttering can cause overflows, leading to foundation erosion or internal damp. Blockages or misaligned downpipes are common in new builds.

• Why it happens: Debris from construction or incorrect slope installation.
• How to spot it: Water pooling around the base of the house after rain, or stains on walls.
• What to do: Clear blockages yourself if minor, but report structural faults to the builder. Persistent issues may require professional drainage surveys, costing around £200-£400.

5. Ventilation and Ducting Issues

Vents, including trickle vents in windows and roof ducting, ensure proper airflow to prevent condensation and mold. Disconnected or poorly fitted vents are frequent complaints.

• Why it happens: Oversight during roofing or window installation.
• How to spot it: Musty smells, excessive humidity, or visible gaps in ducting.
• What to do: Check connections and report for reconnection. The HOA advises combining this with a full ventilation assessment to comply with building regs.

6. Fixtures, Fittings, and Internal Defects

From kitchen units to bathroom fittings, internal elements like cupboards, flooring, and plumbing often show scratches, misalignments, or leaks.

• Why it happens: Damage during transport or installation.
• How to spot it: Inspect for scratches, loose fittings, or poor grouting.
• What to do: Include snagging; most are cosmetic and fixed quickly under the two-year builder warranty.

7. Plastering and Decorative Flaws

Cracks in plaster or uneven paintwork are aesthetic but can indicate underlying settlement.

• Why it happens: Natural drying process or poor application.
• How to spot it: Hairline cracks appearing within months.
• What to do: Monitor and report if worsening. Fill minor cracks yourself with filler from builders’ merchants.

8. Electrical and Plumbing Faults

Wiring issues, leaky pipes, or faulty sockets can pose safety risks.

• Why it happens: Rushed connections or subpar materials.
• How to spot it: Flickering lights or low water pressure.
• What to do: Hire certified professionals for checks; warranties often cover these.

9. Structural and Foundation Concerns

Rare but serious, subsidence or uneven floors can emerge.

• Why it happens: Poor ground preparation.
• How to spot it: Doors not closing properly.
• What to do: Immediate warranty claim; may require surveys.

10. Other Emerging Issues

From scratched doors to blocked gutters, as noted by Hitchcock & King, these can compound if ignored.

Resolving New Build Faults: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Compile Your Snagging List

Document everything with dates, photos, and descriptions. Use apps or templates from sites like HOA for organisation.

Step 2: Notify Your Builder

Submit your list promptly. Builders have complaints processes; follow up in writing.

Step 3: Leverage Warranties and Codes

• NHBC Buildmark: Covers two years for general defects, 3-10 for structural.
• Consumer Codes: Such as the Consumer Code for Home Builders, allowing disputes up to £50,000.
• New Homes Ombudsman: For codes post-2023, with higher compensation limits.

If unresolved, escalate to the Financial Ombudsman or courts as a last resort.

Step 4: Professional Help and Prevention

Engage independent snag inspectors like New Build Inspections. Choose reputable builders using tips from Niki Schafer interior design : 

Check reviews, visit sites, and verify accreditations.

Prevent issues by researching developers via HOA guides on choosing the best new home builder.

How Tacman UK Can Help Your Property Business Grow

At Tacman UK, we understand that navigating new build challenges isn’t just about individual homeowners, it’s also a key concern for property developers, investors, and management firms. Our platform offers expert consultancy and digital tools designed to streamline property management and mitigate risks like common faults. By integrating our services, businesses can enhance project oversight, reduce snagging disputes, and improve customer satisfaction, ultimately driving revenue growth.

Conclusion

New build faults are common but manageable with proactive steps. By understanding issues like poorly fitted windows, defective pointing, and insulation gaps, and knowing how to resolve them through snagging, warranties, and professional support, you can enjoy your new home with peace of mind. Remember, the UK’s housing market is evolving, with stricter codes improving standards over time.Visit Tacman.uk today to learn how we can support your business expansion in the competitive UK property market.

FAQs

1. How soon should I report snagging issues in my new home?

Report issues as soon as possible , ideally within the first two years under your builder’s warranty (e.g., NHBC Buildmark). Many defects, like cracks from settlement, appear in the first 6-12 months as the house dries out. Delaying could limit your recourse, as non-structural fixes are typically only covered in years 1-2.

2. Can I claim compensation for new build problems?

Yes, via consumer codes or ombudsman services. Under the New Homes Quality Code (post-2023), awards can reach . For the Consumer Code for Home Builders, it’s up to £50,000 (or £15,000 pre-2024), including inconvenience payments. Average awards in 2023 were around £1,000-£6,000, per HOA reports.

3. What if my builder ignores my snagging list?

Escalate through their complaints process first, first send them a formal letter before action requesting the snags be fixed within a set timeframe and threatening further action if they don’t comply

4. Do new builds depreciate in value?

Yes, new builds can depreciate in value, particularly right after purchase, due to the loss of their new status and the premium paid for being the first owner

5. How can I choose a reliable new build developer?

Check accreditations, visit completed sites, read reviews on Trustpilot or forums, and verify aftercare ratings. Avoid developers with poor NHBC feedback; opt for those under the New Homes Quality Board.