The Quality Of New Builds-Snagged

Why Quality Concerns Persist for New-Build Homes in Ireland—and How Buyers Can Protect Themselves

In Ireland, the conversation surrounding new-build home quality remains a hot topic. While many builders are working hard to improve construction standards and energy efficiency, public trust in housebuilders is still low. According to a recent survey by the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), 55% of people believe older homes are of better quality, while just 21% prefer new-builds.

This gap in perception is particularly concerning given the ongoing housing shortage across the country. Despite improvements, the stigma surrounding new-build homes persists—largely driven by some high-profile construction issues and buyers' expectations, heavily influenced by social media.

The Perception Gap: Are New-Builds Really Worse?

One of the more concerning findings from the CIOB survey is the widespread belief that older homes are better built. Nearly a third of respondents said new-builds were of "poor quality," and 33% expressed doubts about housebuilders’ ability to meet high standards.

However, the reality may not be as dire as some believe:

• Building Regulations in Ireland: New-build homes in Ireland must meet strict regulations, particularly in terms of energy efficiency, structural integrity, and safety. These regulations are more robust than ever, ensuring that new homes are sustainable and up to modern standards.

• High-Profile Failures: While it’s true that some large developers have faced criticism for subpar work, these instances are not representative of the entire industry. Many smaller and more reputable builders continue to maintain excellent standards.

• Aesthetic Bias: With social media setting unrealistic expectations, many homebuyers focus on appearance over quality. For example, an Instagram-worthy kitchen may blind a buyer to more serious structural issues, such as poor insulation or defective plumbing.

The Market Context: Housing Supply and Demand in Ireland

The Irish housing market is in the midst of a crisis. A combination of housing supply shortages, rising demand, and inflated property prices continues to fuel a challenging environment for homebuyers.

• Supply Shortages: Ireland’s chronic housing shortage is exacerbated by delays in planning permissions and ongoing concerns about affordability. The government has set ambitious targets for new homes, but there is still a significant gap between targets and completions.

• Demand Pressures: With a growing population and economic stability, the demand for homes remains high. This, coupled with lower interest rates, has kept demand robust, creating pressure on builders to meet quotas, sometimes at the expense of quality.

In a market where the supply of homes is tight, the risks of rushing construction are real. That's why snagging inspections are more important than ever, helping buyers ensure their new homes meet the necessary standards before they move in.

Unrealistic Expectations: The Influence of Social Media on Homebuyers

Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest often set unrealistic expectations for what a "perfect" home should look like. These curated, polished images of new homes can lead many Irish buyers to place too much value on superficial aesthetics, missing important factors like structural integrity.

• A perfectly staged living room might hide cracks in the walls or issues with electrical systems.

• A beautifully tiled bathroom may distract from underlying water damage or faulty plumbing.

Buyers often lack the expertise to distinguish between cosmetic appeal and fundamental issues in construction. Without proper snagging checks, it’s easy to confuse "Instagram perfection" with real-life quality.

Why Snagging Inspections Are Essential for New-Build Buyers in Ireland

Given the challenges faced in the Irish housing market, snagging inspections have become an indispensable tool for buyers:

• Thorough Assessments: Snagging inspectors in Ireland go far beyond surface-level checks, identifying defects in plumbing, wiring, insulation, and much more.

• Peace of Mind: With a snagging inspection, buyers can ensure that their new home has been built to a high standard, avoiding costly repairs down the line.

• Accountability: Having an inspection report allows buyers to hold developers accountable, ensuring that any issues are rectified before they take possession.

Building Trust in New-Build Homes in Ireland

To shift the public perception of new-build homes, the Irish construction industry must take proactive steps to demonstrate quality and build trust:

1. Transparency and Compliance: Developers should provide detailed reports on compliance with Irish building regulations, showcasing how their homes meet modern energy efficiency and sustainability standards.

2. Engaging with Buyers: Open communication with buyers during the construction process can help address concerns, explain building techniques, and manage expectations.

3. Independent Snagging Checks: Encouraging third-party snagging inspections can provide buyers with an impartial and expert opinion on their property, ensuring that any defects are identified and resolved before they move in.

Conclusion: Protect Your Investment with a Snagging Inspection

Despite the challenges facing the Irish housing market, it’s important to remember that new-build homes offer many benefits, from energy efficiency to modern design. However, the potential for substandard workmanship still exists, and it’s up to buyers to ensure their property meets high standards.

Whether you’re buying your first home or upgrading to a new build, investing in a snagging inspection will provide peace of mind and help you avoid costly repairs down the road. By making snagging an essential part of your buying process, you’ll be better positioned to protect your investment and ensure your new home is built to last.