New Build Completion Planner UK

The completion date is when ownership legally transfers to you and you can collect the keys. For new builds, this is often estimated rather than fixed, as it depends on construction progress. The developer will give a long-stop date (the latest possible date) in the contract. If the developer misses this date, you may be able to rescind the contract.

On new builds, exchange typically happens when the property is 2-8 weeks from completion, though some developers push for earlier exchange. At exchange, you pay a deposit (usually 10%) and are legally committed to buy. Ensure your mortgage offer covers the expected completion date before exchanging.

A snagging inspection identifies defects, unfinished work and poor workmanship in a new build property. This includes cosmetic issues (paint drips, scratched surfaces), functional problems (doors not closing properly, leaking taps) and construction defects (cracking, poor pointing). Professional inspections typically cost GBP 300-500 and can identify 50-100+ issues.

Ideally before legal completion, so you can negotiate fixes before paying. If the developer will not allow access before completion, do it as soon as possible after getting the keys. You have 2 years under the NHBC warranty to report defects to the builder. After 2 years, major structural defects are covered for a further 8 years by the warranty provider.

Yes. Your mortgage lender will require buildings insurance from the date of exchange (not completion). For houses, you arrange this yourself. For flats, the freeholder or management company usually arranges buildings insurance for the whole building — you should confirm this and obtain the certificate. You still need your own contents insurance.

If completion is delayed beyond the long-stop date in your contract, you may be entitled to compensation or the right to rescind (cancel) the contract and get your deposit back. Some developers offer delay compensation schemes. Check your contract terms carefully. If using Help to Buy, delays can cause your authority-to-proceed to expire.

Most new builds come with a 10-year structural warranty (commonly NHBC Buildmark, LABC, or Premier Guarantee). The first 2 years are a builder warranty period where the developer must fix defects. Years 3-10 cover major structural defects and are backed by the warranty provider. Always check which warranty scheme applies.

Yes. Developers are often open to negotiation, especially at end of financial quarters, on last few plots, or in slower markets. Rather than reducing the headline price, developers may offer incentives like upgraded kitchens, flooring, landscaping, stamp duty contribution, or legal fees paid. These can be worth GBP 5,000-20,000.

A demonstration visit (or home demo) is when the site manager walks you through your new property, typically 1-2 weeks before completion. They show you how to operate the heating, appliances, consumer unit, stopcocks and any smart home features. Take notes and photos. This is also a good time to point out any visible defects.

On completion day, check: all keys and fobs are handed over; meters are accessible and you have opening readings; all appliances work; heating and hot water function; all windows and doors open and lock properly; no new damage since your last visit; all snagging items from your list have been addressed; you have warranty documents, user guides and certificates.