Do I Need a Snagging Inspection in Ireland?

Do I need a snagging inspection in Ireland? The honest answer: in most new-build scenarios, yes — and the cost of skipping it almost always exceeds the cost of doing it. Here's the framework.

Yes, You Need One If…

• You're buying a brand-new house or apartment from a developer
• You're closing within the next 30 days
• The property has been built within the last 24 months
• You're moving in immediately or letting it out
• The development is large-scale and multi-phase

Probably Not, If…

• You're buying a pre-owned home over 10 years old (book a full building survey instead)
• You're buying derelict for renovation (you need an engineer)
• You're a builder buying your own product

The Economics

A typical inspection costs €250–€450. A typical report identifies 30–80 documented defects. If even three of those defects would have cost €100+ to remedy yourself, the inspection has paid for itself.

The Other Argument

Beyond cost, the snag list is your written record. If a defect emerges six months in, the question is always: was it there at handover? With a report, you have the answer.

For full guidance see our complete snagging guide.