Real Snagging Stories: The Worst (and Weirdest) Issues We've Found

Buying a new-build home in Dublin might feel like the ultimate dream. But sometimes, beneath those pristine finishes lies a hidden minefield of snagging issues. From dangerous electrical faults to baffling design blunders, what should be perfect can quickly turn into a nightmare.

At Affordable Snag List Dublin, we’ve seen it all. This article shares some of the worst and weirdest snagging stories, while offering practical advice for anyone buying a newly built property.

What Is Snagging—and Why It Matters

Snagging is the process of checking a new property for defects or unfinished work. These "snags" may include:

• Cosmetic flaws (scratched surfaces, chipped tiles)

• Functional problems (misaligned doors, faulty plumbing)

• Dangerous issues (exposed wiring, structural weaknesses)

  
  

Most snags go unnoticed by homeowners but are quickly identified during a professional snagging inspection.

Real-Life Horror Snagging Stories

1. The Missing Staircase

A client recently moved into what was supposed to be a two-storey home—only to find no staircase. A construction oversight left the entire floor inaccessible. Repairs took weeks, delaying move-in and sparking a legal back-and-forth.

2. Plumbing Disasters Behind the Walls

A Dublin homeowner reported damp spots on fresh paint. Our team at Affordable Snag List Dublin used best ways and discovered that unsealed plumbing joints were leaking behind the walls—something that would’ve cost thousands if left unchecked. If you are just looking for the plumbing inspection of the property click here.

3. Live Electrical Wires in Walls

Another property had live wires near a metal frame, shocking anyone who touched a switch. The kitchen sockets were also wired incorrectly, reversing live and neutral—risking fire and appliance damage. if you are looking for a pre purchase electrical survey of your property click here.

The Weirdest Snagging Discoveries

4. The Window That Faced a Brick Wall

A luxury apartment listed a “courtyard view.” The reality? A brick wall one foot away. Due to incorrect planning changes during construction, what was supposed to be a sun-filled room turned into a claustrophobic box.

5. The Fake Kitchen Cupboard

One of our team discovered a fake kitchen cabinet installed purely for symmetry. It hid nothing—except for rats nesting in the wall void behind it. Disgusting and dangerous.

6. A Toilet Flushing into the Sink

We wish we were joking. A client complained of smells in the kitchen every time someone flushed. We uncovered a toilet waste pipe connected to the kitchen drainage line. The builder’s subcontractor made a critical connection error—and no one caught it until we arrived. To book your inspection click here.

Unexpected Structural Failures

7. Hand-Sized Cracks in Walls

One family found a vertical crack wide enough to fit a hand into. We traced the cause to an uneven foundation pour—a serious structural issue that required professional underpinning.

8. Floors That Weren’t Level

Marbles rolling on their own? Not a ghost—just a 3-degree floor slope caused by improper ground compaction. The home required slab jacking, costing time and money.

9. Doors That Wouldn’t Close

Every door in the house either jammed or swung open. Why? They were installed before the screed was laid, throwing off the alignment. We had to recommend full rehanging.

Why Do These Snagging Issues Happen?

Builders face tight deadlines, limited oversight, and subcontractor coordination chaos. Combine that with poor quality control and lack of detailed inspections, and you’ve got a recipe for failure.

Learn how our snagging experts in Dublin catch these issues before you move in.

The Human Cost of Snagging Nightmares

Behind every snag is a frustrated homeowner. The emotional and financial toll can be huge:

• Delayed move-ins

• Expensive repairs

• Health risks (e.g., mold, pests)

• Legal battles

  
  

How to Avoid Snagging Disasters

✅ Hire Professionals: At Affordable Snag List Dublin, our qualified inspectors use thermal imaging, moisture meters, and detailed checklists to catch what the eye can’t see.

✅ Inspect Thoroughly: Don’t rely on show homes. Walk through your actual unit, test every fixture, and bring a checklist.

✅ Get It in Writing: Document everything. Take photos. Keep emails. Create a snag report to protect yourself.

Contact us for snagging inspections.

Conclusion

Snagging isn’t just a checklist—it’s your insurance policy against nightmare scenarios. From missing stairs to sewage in sinks, these stories are all too real. The good news? With a trusted snagging company in Dublin like Affordable Snag List Dublin, you don’t have to face these surprises alone.

FAQs

Q1: When should I book a snagging inspection?

Ideally before completion or within the first two weeks after moving in.

Q2: How long does a snagging survey take?

Usually 2–4 hours depending on the property size.

Q3: Is it worth hiring a snagging company?

Absolutely. The cost of inspection is minimal compared to potential repairs.

Q4: What tools do professionals use?

Thermal cameras, moisture meters, laser levels, socket testers, and more.

Q5: How can I contact Affordable Snag List Dublin?

Visit our Contact Page to book your snagging inspection today.