What Is a Snag List?

A snag list is a tool used by an owner to detail deficiencies in new home construction or in a remodeling job on an existing home. It lists anything the homeowner is dissatisfied with that needs remediation before the construction work is signed off in approval.

Arrangements

The arrangements for a snag list should be made with the contractor as part of the contract negotiations. Both parties must be in agreement as to the items that can be included in such a list and the length of time the homeowner has to report any deficiencies to the contractor. The arrangements should be thorough to protect both parties and define areas of responsibility and liability.

Stages

Often, there are three phases to the snag list. The first phase occurs when the homeowner takes possession of the home. Any deficiencies in structure and any unfinished work are noted and the contractor accomplishes necessary repairs or completion of work. The second phase occurs 6 months later. The second phase occurs 6 months later. This often includes items that may not have been immediately obvious, such as a furnace that does not work and may not have been running during the initial period as the weather did not call for it. Anything that might have been missed during the initial inspection is reported here and the contractor should remedy according to the terms of the agreement. The third phase occurs at the 1-year mark and is intended for problems such as cracks that may occur in the foundation or in the walls as the house settles.

Interior

Things on the snag list on the inside of the home would include the quality of the walls and the paint or paper applied. Light switches and outlets should be flush with the wall and all should work. Trim work and molding are complete and joints all meet properly. Light fixtures are properly mounted and are operational. The interior doors should all be hung and move freely. Windows have no gaps and open and close properly. Built-ins including bookcases and counters should be level and all joints should be free of gaps. All plumbing should be checked including toilets, sinks, bathtubs and showers as well as hook-ups for washing machines and dishwashers. Furnace, water heaters, dryers and air conditioning systems should be operational. All glass, including windows and mirrors, should be free of chips, cracks or scratches. Cabinets should be installed properly and all finishes checked for damage or scratches. Stairs should be examined for creaks or gaps along the wall.

Exterior

Any brickwork should be mortared. Any siding should be installed uniformly and no bare spots visible. All doorways and windows need to be completely sealed. Any painting work should be checked for good coverage. Fences should be installed and level with working gates. Driveways should be free of bumps or dips. Walkways should be clear and not chipped or uneven. The garage should be checked in the same manner as the house inside and out. Any landscaping or lawn should be installed in accordance with the contract. Check the roof and all gutters and downspouts.

Performing the Inspections

Homeowners can perform the inspection themselves. There are checklists that can be downloaded from the Internet to assist in ensuring all the points are covered. Also, books such as "The Complete Book of Home Inspection" by Norman Becker may be a valuable tool in compiling your own snag list. Professional home inspectors can be hired to do the job and may be more experienced in knowing want to look for but are usually expensive to use.