What is Snagging?
Snagging is a detailed inspection of a newly completed property to identify defects, unfinished work, or deviations from the agreed specifications. It is conducted before or during the handover process, giving the buyer an opportunity to document issues and require the developer to fix them before taking possession of the unit.
How Snagging Works in the UAE
In Dubai, snagging has become a standard practice for off-plan property buyers. The process typically involves:
- Hiring a professional snagging company: Specialists with construction expertise inspect every aspect of the unit. Costs range from AED 1,500 to AED 5,000 depending on property size.
- Systematic inspection: The snagging team checks walls (cracks, paint quality), flooring (tiles, alignment), plumbing (leaks, water pressure), electrical systems (switches, sockets, AC), windows and doors (sealing, operation), kitchen and bathroom fittings, and overall finish quality.
- Snagging report: A detailed document with photographs, descriptions, and locations of each defect, typically categorized by severity.
- Developer rectification: The report is submitted to the developer, who is obligated to fix the issues within the defect liability period (usually 12 months from handover).
- Re-inspection: The buyer or snagging company returns to verify that all items have been addressed.
Practical Example
Your new apartment in Emaar Beachfront is ready for handover. You hire a snagging company for AED 2,500. Their inspection reveals 22 items: hairline cracks in two walls, a misaligned kitchen drawer, low water pressure in the guest bathroom, a scratched window pane, and several paint imperfections. The snagging report is submitted to Emaar, who schedules repairs within 30 days. After rectification, the snagging company conducts a free re-inspection and confirms all items are resolved. You proceed with handover confident that your unit meets the promised standard.
Why Snagging Matters for Investors
Accepting a property without snagging means accepting responsibility for every defect. Once the defect liability period expires, repairs come out of your pocket. Professional snagging typically identifies 15-50 items even in premium developments — issues invisible to an untrained eye. We at UAE-Prop recommend snagging for every off-plan handover and can connect you with trusted inspection companies. It is a small investment that protects a much larger one.
