Snagging & handover inspections ยท Portugal
Snagging and handover inspections in Portugal
An inspection before handover gives you a clear record of observed defects and incomplete work to discuss with the developer. Where possible, arrange the visit while there is time to review the findings before completion.
Why it matters
Record defects before handover where possible
A new-build purchase in Portugal is normally paid in stages, with a payment due around handover. An inspection carried out before that point gives you a written record of what was observed, while there is still time to raise it.
Rights and remedies do not automatically end when the keys are handed over. Your lawyer should advise on acceptance documents, payment obligations, contractual conditions and the steps to take when defects are identified.
What we provide is the technical record: what was observed, where, and what it means. For a resale property the equivalent service is a pre-purchase inspection. What you do with it is a decision for you and your advisers, and it is better made with the evidence in front of you.
The basics
What snagging means
Snagging is an inspection of accessible areas of a newly built or renovated property to record observed defects, incomplete work and apparent differences from the documents or specification supplied.
Findings may range from minor finishing defects to more significant concerns involving water ingress, drainage, electrical installations or structural elements. We explain their significance and identify any need for specialist assessment.
The report supports the next discussion. Responsibility for repairs depends on the applicable agreement and legal position, which is a matter for your lawyer rather than for us.
The inspection
What we check at handover
We assess the accessible areas within the agreed scope and record observed defects with clear descriptions, locations and relevant photographs to support discussions with your builder or developer.
Workmanship and tolerances
Level floors, plumb walls, square reveals, consistent grout lines, tile lippage, joinery gaps and the alignment of anything that is supposed to run straight.
Finishes
Paint coverage and overspray, plaster cracks and shrinkage, marked or damaged surfaces, skirtings, sealant work and the quality of every visible junction.
Doors, windows and shutters
Operation, alignment, locking, glazing and seals, shutter and blind mechanisms, and whether anything binds, drops or fails to close against its frame.
Functional checks of accessible services
We carry out the agreed functional checks on accessible electrical accessories, sanitary fittings and connected building services. Systems must be available and safe to operate. Any inaccessible, disconnected or untested items are recorded.
Specification and documents
Where the agreed specification and relevant documents are supplied, we note apparent differences in installed finishes, fixtures, fittings and equipment.
Drainage and water
Terrace and balcony falls, gully positions, shower trays, waste connections and anywhere water appears likely to sit rather than leave.
Incomplete works
External works, landscaping, parking, storage, communal areas, and anything shown in the supplied documents that is not yet in place.
Accessible common areas
Accessible common areas may be included where agreed and permission is available. Specialist lift, plant or statutory inspections are separate from our condition observations.
Also worth considering
Inspection during construction
Inspection during construction can provide an opportunity to observe work before it is covered by plasterboard, screed, tiling or other finishes. The useful stages depend on the design and the build programme.
Typically those stages are after the structure is up and before it is closed in, after first-fix electrics and plumbing and before the walls are covered, and after waterproofing and before the finish is laid over it.
The number of visits, stages to be inspected and fees are agreed in advance. Construction-stage visits do not replace the contractor’s responsibilities or any separately appointed design or supervision role.
Afterwards
What you do with the list
A clear list with photographs, locations and descriptions helps the developer and your advisers understand what was observed. Ask for a written response and an agreed record of any proposed remedial work.
A follow-up inspection can review the agreed items once repairs are reported complete. The scope, availability and any additional fee are confirmed in advance.
We agree the reporting timetable with you when we quote, so it fits the property and your own deadlines.
Timing
When to arrange it
Contact us when a likely handover date is available. The property should be sufficiently complete and accessible for the agreed checks.
Tell us any contractual deadlines so that we can confirm availability. The expected visit duration and testing scope are confirmed in the quotation.
An inspection after handover can still document condition and support advice on the next steps, so it remains worth arranging if the earlier window has passed.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Does the developer not check their own work?
The developer’s quality-control process and an inspection commissioned by you serve different roles. Our report provides a record of the findings within your agreed scope, for discussion with the developer and your advisers.
How many defects is normal?
There is no target number of defects. The report should reflect the property’s actual condition and the agreed scope. The significance of the findings, the evidence and the recommended actions matter more than the count.
Can you inspect if I am not in Portugal?
Yes. We can inspect on your behalf where access is arranged. We agree the visit and reporting timetable before booking, and can discuss a live walkthrough where practical.
Do you inspect renovations as well as new builds?
Yes. We can assess accessible completed renovation or conversion work within an agreed scope. Supply the relevant specification and documents so that apparent differences can be recorded.
Is a follow-up visit included?
A follow-up visit to review reported repairs can be arranged under an agreed scope. We confirm availability, the items to be reviewed and any additional fee before booking.
Arrange an inspection before handover where possible
Send the property address and your expected handover date, with any contractual deadline. We will confirm availability and provide a quotation.