In 2026, with the New Homes Quality Code (NHQC) providing stronger consumer rights, these are the top 10 questions a savvy homebuyer will likely ask before booking an independent Clerk of Works or snagging inspector.

 

1. When is the best time to have the inspection?

Ideally, you should book a Pre-Completion Inspection (PCI) after the developer has issued the "Notice to Complete" but at least 15 days before your legal completion date. If you've already moved in, you should aim for an inspection within the first 2 months to ensure the builder addresses issues early in their 2-year warranty period.

 

2. Does my builder have to allow you on-site before completion?

If your builder is registered with the New Homes Quality Board (NHQB), they are legally obligated to allow a professional inspector to visit the site before you move in. We carry all necessary CSCS cards and insurance to ensure compliance with their site safety rules.

 

3. How long does a full defects inspection take?

For a standard 3-bedroom home, a thorough inspection takes between 2 to 3 hours. We don't just look at the surface; we test every window, socket, and tap, and use thermal imaging to check for hidden issues like missing insulation.

 

4. What equipment do you use to find "hidden" faults?

As an independent Clerk of Works, we go beyond a visual check. We use thermal imaging cameras to detect heat loss and moisture, laser levels to check for structural "plumb," moisture meters to find hidden leaks.

 

5. Can you find issues that Building Control might have missed?

Yes. Building Control and warranty providers (like NHBC) typically only visit a site at specific milestones. They often miss "finish" quality, minor leaks, or thermal bypass issues. We act as your personal guardian, looking at your specific plot with a level of detail a site-wide inspector cannot offer.

 

6. How quickly will I receive my report?

We pride ourselves on a 24-hour turnaround. You will receive a digital, photographic report that is formatted so you can send it directly to your site manager or customer service team for action.

 

7. Will the builder actually fix the things you find?

Under the NHQC, builders are required to provide a home that meets the technical standards we inspect against. Our reports cite specific Building Regulations or British Standards, making it very difficult for a developer to argue that a defect is "within tolerance."

 

8. Are you independent from the developer?

Absolutely. We never work for builders or developers. Our loyalty is 100% with you, the purchaser. We provide an unbiased, third-party assessment to ensure you get the quality of home you paid for.

 

9. What happens if I find more issues after you leave?

Houses "settle" over the first 12–24 months. While our initial report is comprehensive, we offer End-of-Defect inspections at the 22-month mark to catch any structural cracks or settling issues before your builder’s 2-year liability period ends.

 

10. How much does a professional inspection cost?

Fees are typically based on the size of the property (number of bedrooms). While prices vary, the cost of an inspection is usually a tiny fraction of the cost of the home—often less than the cost of one major repair that the builder might have otherwise avoided.