When purchasing a new property, the excitement of ownership can sometimes overshadow the need for due diligence, particularly with property snagging. Skipping snagging, however, can lead to costly consequences, especially when hidden defects come to light. Snagging, which identifies issues like structural flaws, mechanical malfunctions, and poor finishes, plays a crucial role in protecting both a property’s value and its owner’s financial health. Here’s a closer look at the potential costs of skipping this important step through real-life scenarios.
Example 1: The Case of Hidden Plumbing Issues
Imagine a new homeowner, eager to move into their newly built villa. Excited by the fresh construction and trusting the developer’s reputation, they decide not to hire a snagging expert. A few months later, they start noticing water stains on the walls and ceiling. Unbeknownst to them, the plumbing system was improperly installed, resulting in slow leaks throughout the property. When the homeowner finally consults a professional, they are faced with substantial repair costs, as the leaking pipes have caused damage to the walls, floors, and even the foundation in some areas.
In this case, the lack of initial snagging oversight led to a repair bill upwards of AED 20,000. Had they conducted a thorough snagging inspection, these issues could have been addressed during the builder’s warranty period, saving a significant amount of money and stress.
Example 2: Electrical Hazards and Safety Concerns
Another common issue that can go unnoticed without snagging is faulty wiring. In one instance, a property owner in a newly completed apartment complex reported frequent electrical outages and minor shocks when using appliances. Suspecting that something was wrong, they hired an inspector who discovered several wiring defects, including improperly grounded outlets and outdated circuit breakers that did not meet current safety standards.
Correcting these issues came with a steep price tag, as a complete rewiring was necessary to prevent fire hazards and other safety risks. The cost? Nearly AED 15,000, plus the inconvenience of living without stable electricity for several weeks. If a snagging inspection had been performed early on, these issues could have been resolved by the developer at no cost to the homeowner, as they would have fallen under the initial handover warranty.
Example 3: Poorly Installed Windows and Insulation
In this final scenario, a homeowner in a high-rise apartment skipped snagging, feeling confident in the quality of the unit. After moving in, they noticed that the temperature inside was hard to control, with the apartment often feeling excessively warm in summer and cold in winter. After further investigation, they discovered that the windows had been poorly installed, allowing drafts and impacting insulation.
The result was higher electricity bills as the homeowner struggled to regulate the indoor climate. Additionally, mold began to form around the window frames due to the moisture seeping in. Addressing these issues required not only fixing the windows but also remediating the mold, costing them an additional AED 10,000.
Conclusion: Why Snagging is Worth the Investment
These real-life examples highlight the value of snagging inspections. While it may seem like an extra expense initially, snagging can save property owners tens of thousands of dirhams in repair costs, not to mention the stress and disruption caused by unplanned repairs. Skipping this essential step could leave you facing significant out-of-pocket expenses that would otherwise be covered under the builder’s warranty.
In summary, snagging is a small upfront investment for peace of mind and financial security. By identifying and addressing issues early, homeowners can protect their property’s value, enhance its safety, and avoid unexpected costs.
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