Five New Home Defects You Might Miss
Some defects are obvious. Others are easy to overlook until they begin affecting how the home performs.
1. Poor drainage falls
Patios and paths should generally direct water away from the building or towards suitable drainage. Shower areas should drain effectively to the intended outlet, while external window sills should shed water away from the wall below.
Why it gets missed: The issue may only become obvious during heavy rain or when water is deliberately tested.
2. Defects at roof level
Damaged tiles, poorly fitted flashings, incomplete verge details and defective rainwater goods can be difficult to see from ground level.
Why it gets missed: Most buyers cannot safely inspect high level areas and internal signs of water penetration may not appear immediately.
3. Loose or insecure fittings
Handrails, balustrades, radiators, sanitary fittings and kitchen units may appear secure but move when tested.
Why it gets missed: A visual check alone may not reveal inadequate fixings.
4. Doors and windows that do not perform properly
A door or window may open and close but still have uneven gaps, poor seals, faulty locks or inadequate adjustment.
Why it gets missed: Problems are often only noticeable when the component is tested carefully or during cold, wet or windy weather.
5. Plumbing and service issues
Slow drainage, leaking overflows, reversed hot and cold supplies, poor water pressure and incorrectly operating heating controls may not be immediately apparent.
Why it gets missed: These items require basic operational checks rather than a simple visual inspection.
An independent snagging inspection can improve the likelihood of identifying visible and reasonably apparent defects. It remains a non-destructive inspection, so concealed defects may not be identifiable without specialist testing or further investigation.
