New-Build Homes Averaging 130 Defects, Investigation Finds

New-build homes are emerging with an average of 130 defects, according to an analysis by independent snagging company HomeSnag. These issues range from poorly prepared garden grounds leading to waterlogged yards to uneven ceilings and stairs, and even instances of mold and leaks.

HomeSnag analyzed data from 2,000 home inspections conducted in 2026, indicating that a significant number of housebuilders may be compromising on construction quality. The company suggests that nine in ten new properties exhibit issues with their gardens, pointing to inadequate ground preparation that hinders rainwater drainage.

Following swampy gardens, uneven ceilings were identified in 70% of surveyed homes. Uneven stairs and landings, along with improperly graded ground levels, were reported in 60% of cases. Inadequate loft insulation, detected using thermal cameras, was found in 50% of inspected homes.

Further findings revealed that nearly a third of inspections uncovered mold and damp issues, often linked to improperly connected extractor fan ducts or compromised ventilation systems. Approximately one in five surveys identified leaks stemming from defective plumbing.

Tom Britton, founder of HomeSnag, stated, "A new home can look fantastic on the day you get the keys, but a good finish doesn't necessarily mean it has been built well." He added that only about 10% of the defects HomeSnag identifies are minor cosmetic issues, challenging the common perception that snagging primarily addresses superficial flaws like paintwork.

Separate data from insurance broker J3 Advisory supports these findings, with a reported 93.7% of new-build buyers reporting at least one issue to their builder after moving in. While many housebuilders promote 'five-star' ratings from the Home Builders Federation's customer satisfaction scheme, HomeSnag's data suggests that only 5-10% of properties meet its standard for genuine five-star build quality, indicating a potential disconnect between customer satisfaction scores and actual construction quality.

"Some of the most significant defects we find simply aren't things a homeowner would know to look for, or have the specialist equipment to identify," Britton explained. "Some of the worst homes we've ever inspected have been built by five-star housebuilders."

Health and safety concerns have also been noted. HomeSnag surveyors have encountered missing cavity wall insulation, leading to unnecessary heat loss and increased energy bills. More serious issues include gas and carbon monoxide leaks, exposed electrical cables, and improperly installed fire doors, with 70% of three-story homes inspected having excessive fire door gaps. Loose masonry and brickwork that could pose an injury risk have also been found.

HomeSnag recommends that prospective buyers of new-build homes consider commissioning a snagging survey upon completion. Such surveys help ensure the property meets the agreed-upon standards and identify imperfections. If a property is under warranty, builders are typically legally obligated to rectify defects identified through these surveys.