Construction - Raising and Managing a Snagging List

The site manager confirms that main works are substantially complete and schedules the pre-completion walkthrough with the client or their representative. The job record is updated to reflect the snagging phase has begun.

Site manager conducts a room-by-room or area-by-area inspection using a digital snagging form. Each defect is recorded with a unique reference, description, photographic evidence, location, and the responsible trade. Records are captured on mobile, eliminating paper transfer delays.

Completed inspection forms are reviewed and compiled into a formal snagging list. Items are grouped by trade contractor and cross-referenced against the specification. Each snag retains its unique reference number for tracking.

Each snag item is issued to the responsible trade contractor or sub-contractor with a target rectification date. Works Orders are raised for sub-contracted trades. Internal Mentions notify team members responsible for items within the main contractor's own scope.

Progress against the snagging list is monitored through the job record. Each item is updated as rectification works are completed. The site manager or clerk of works re-inspects and signs off each item before it is marked closed.

Once all items are resolved, the client or their representative is invited for a final walkthrough. A digital sign-off form confirms the snagging list is cleared. This formal confirmation supports the move to practical completion.

With practical completion confirmed and the snagging list signed off, the final payment application or invoice is raised. Outstanding retention is noted for release on the agreed schedule following the defects liability period.

Snag items are assigned verbally on site and never formally recorded, leading to disputes over what was agreed when the client withholds final payment.

Trade contractors complete their sections and leave site before all snags are resolved, making it almost impossible to get them back without a documented record of outstanding items.

The snagging list lives in an email thread or paper notepad, so the site manager spends hours chasing status updates from sub-contractors instead of managing the close-out.