Investing in real estate is always a major milestone, and ensuring your new home or investment is delivered in perfect condition is essential. This is why snagging in Dubai has become a crucial step in the property handover process. Snagging helps identify construction defects, poor finishing, and incomplete work before you officially take possession of your property. However, many buyers make mistakes during the snagging phase that lead to unnecessary expenses, disputes with developers, and long-term maintenance issues. This guide highlights the most common snagging mistakes Dubai property buyers should avoid and explains how to ensure a smooth, problem-free handover.
What Is Snagging?
Snagging is a detailed inspection carried out to identify defects or unfinished elements in a newly built property. These issues can include structural faults, electrical problems, plumbing defects, or cosmetic flaws. Snagging ensures the developer addresses these problems before you accept the handover, reducing future repair costs and protecting your investment.
Common Snagging Mistakes to Avoid
1. Not Conducting a Professional Snagging Inspection
One of the biggest mistakes buyers make is relying only on their own judgment. Most homeowners are not trained to spot technical construction flaws, hidden electrical defects, or moisture issues. A professional inspector uses specialized tools, follows a strict checklist, and identifies issues that are easy to miss during a casual walkthrough.
How to avoid it:
Hire a certified snagging inspector.
Request a detailed report with photos and descriptions.
2. Doing the Snagging Too Late
Many buyers wait until after they move in to inspect the property, which makes it harder to get developers to address defects. Once you accept the handover, the level of responsibility shifts, and some issues may fall outside the warranty or require lengthy dispute processes.
How to avoid it:
Schedule a snagging inspection before signing the final handover documents.
Conduct it as soon as the developer notifies you that the property is ready.
3. Focusing Only on Cosmetic Defects
It’s easy to fixate on issues like paint marks or scratches on tiles. While these matter, the more critical issues are often hidden—faulty wiring, weak water pressure, poor waterproofing, or misaligned ducting. These can lead to costly repairs later.
How to avoid it:
Ensure the snagging checklist covers electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and structural elements.
Prioritize safety-related defects.
4. Not Checking External Areas
Balconies, terraces, parking spaces, and external drainage areas are often ignored during snagging inspections. These areas may have cracks, waterproofing issues, poor tiling, or structural inconsistencies that lead to long-term damage.
How to avoid it:
Inspect all external spaces thoroughly.
Document issues with photos and written notes.
5. Assuming the Developer’s Final Touch-Up Is Sufficient
Developers often perform their own snagging before notifying buyers. While this is helpful, it is rarely as detailed as an independent inspection. Relying solely on the developer’s assessment may leave many issues undiscovered.
How to avoid it:
Always get an independent snagging done.
Cross-check all areas even if the developer claims they are complete.
6. Ignoring the Condition of Appliances and Fixtures
Buyers often overlook functioning but faulty appliances—such as ovens, dishwashers, AC units, water heaters, or lighting. These may work temporarily but fail shortly after handover if not tested properly.
How to avoid it:
Test all appliances thoroughly.
Ensure all fixtures are installed correctly and securely.
7. Not Reviewing Documentation Carefully
Many buyers rush through the handover process and overlook key documents such as warranty details, maintenance schedules, and developer obligations. Missing these details can make it difficult to claim repairs later.
How to avoid it:
Review all handover documents in detail.
Keep a copy of the snagging report and all communication with the developer.
8. Not Following Up After Submitting the Snagging Report
Submitting the snagging list to the developer is not the end of the process. Without follow-up, many repairs may be delayed or overlooked.
How to avoid it:
Track the developer’s progress.
Request a reinspection after repairs are completed.
9. Accepting the Handover Without a Reinspection
Even after repairs are completed, issues may still persist or new ones may arise. Accepting the handover without rechecking the property can lead to long-term complications.
How to avoid it:
Schedule a reinspection with your snagging company.
Verify that every issue on the report has been properly resolved.
10. Not Considering Post-Handover Snagging
Some defects appear only after the property has been occupied—like plumbing leaks, AC malfunctions, or cracks in walls. Post-handover snagging helps catch these issues within the warranty or defect liability period.
How to avoid it:
Conduct follow-up snagging after 3–6 months of occupancy.
Document new issues clearly for the developer.
Tips for a Smooth Snagging Experience in Dubai
Conduct Snagging Early
Start the snagging process before signing acceptance papers. This gives you time to negotiate repairs.
Hire Qualified Inspectors
Choose experienced professionals who use advanced tools and provide comprehensive reports.
Keep Communication Clear
Always document communication with the developer to avoid misunderstandings later.
Maintain Written Records
Store your snagging report, repair confirmation, and correspondence for future reference.
Conclusion
Avoiding common mistakes during snagging in Dubai can make a significant difference in the quality, safety, and long-term value of your property. By conducting inspections early, hiring professionals, reviewing all documentation, and staying proactive during the repair process, you ensure that the property you receive is delivered to the standards you expect. Taking the snagging phase seriously not only protects your investment but also provides peace of mind as you prepare to move into your new home.
