It was launched with great fanfare in 2013 and has been credited with helping many thousands of young people and families on to the housing ladder.

New homes are often marketed by developers with the promise of lengthy warranties offering peace of mind. Many consumers aren’t aware that outside of an initial two-year period, it is primarily structural issues that are covered.

Weak mortar, faulty drainage, unfinished fittings … for many buyers of newly built properties in Britain, their dream home quickly turns into a nightmare. Last week, it emerged that residents had to move out of a recently completed Manchester apartment block, Islington Wharf Mews, because it breaks fire safety rules.

A snagging list is created by new build buyers in the UK and Ireland to detail the snags and defects in their new home.  Many opt to create their own snag list using a snagging checklist or guide book which represents great value compared to the cost of using a professional snagging company.

Getting the keys to a brand-new house that no-one but you has lived in before is a tempting idea. And there are lots of people for whom that dream comes true each year. Last year around 160,000 new homes were built, with the total set to increase by 50,000 a year.