Snagging is a detailed inspection of a newly completed home to record defects before you accept handover. It is the point of greatest leverage with the developer.
- When
- Before signing the handover acceptance
- Non-structural defects
- Commonly one year from handover
- Structural defects
- Ten years under Dubai and UAE law
- Who inspects
- Owner or an independent snagging firm
What a snag list covers
- Finishes: walls, joinery, tiling, sealant, paint
- MEP: air conditioning, plumbing pressure, electrical points
- Windows, doors, balcony drainage and waterproofing
- Appliances and fixtures supplied under the SPA
Your protection after handover
Legal commentary on Dubai Law No. 6 of 2019 describes a ten-year developer liability for structural defects and a one-year period for non-structural items such as installations and finishes. Some contracts set shorter defects liability periods for specific items, so read the SPA.
A sensible pattern is to snag once before handover and again shortly before the one-year period ends.
Should I accept handover with defects outstanding?
Many owners do, provided every defect is recorded in writing with a rectification timeline. Accepting without a written list weakens your position.
How long does a developer have to fix structural defects in Dubai?
Commentary on Dubai Law No. 6 of 2019 describes ten years of developer liability for structural defects from completion.