Pre-Completion Inspection vs Post-Completion Survey

You get two chances to check your new-build home. Most buyers only use one.

A quick check before you complete is a good start. But the defects that cost the most – missing insulation, hidden leaks, damp – usually only show up once you've got the keys and the heating's on.

Which check do I need? →See the comparison
93.7%

of new-build buyers reported at least one issue to their builder after moving in – and more than a quarter reported over 15.

Source: PBC Today, 2026
Your buying journey

Where each check fits

1

Reservation

You reserve your new home

2

Notice to Complete

The developer says the home is ready

PCI

Pre-Completion Inspection

Quick visual check before you complete

🔑

Completion

You get the keys and move in

✓

Post-Completion Survey

Full survey within your two-year builder warranty

Side by side

What you get with each

Pre-Completion Inspection (PCI)

–
WhenBefore legal completion, once the Notice to Complete has been served
–
ReportFollows the NHQB standard Pre-Completion Inspection Checklist
–
ScopeA visual, non-invasive check limited to the checklist items
–
Thermal imagingNot included in the checklist inspection
–
Additional checksRestricted by developer access and the checklist requirements
–
EvidenceChecklist findings only
–
TimingA short inspection window that does not delay completion

Post-Completion Survey RECOMMENDED

✓
WhenAfter you receive the keys – ideally within the two-year builder warranty period
✓
ReportA full, independent report tailored to your property
✓
ScopeRoom-by-room snagging supported by specialist checks
✓
Thermal imagingIncluded to identify insulation gaps, cold bridging, air leakage and concealed leaks
✓
Additional checksMay include moisture readings, loft and roof-space inspections, and ventilation and extractor checks
✓
EvidenceA photographic schedule, thermal images and test readings for your developer and warranty provider
✓
TimingMore flexible, with scope to include issues you've noticed since moving in
Why it matters

Why choose a Post-Completion Survey?

More thorough

Not limited to the PCI checklist, so issues hidden behind finishes – such as insulation gaps or damp – can be found.

Stronger evidence

Thermal images and test readings give your developer clear, objective proof – making defects harder to dispute.

Real-world conditions

With the heating on and the home lived in, cold spots, draughts and condensation show up properly.

Still protected

Defects reported within the first two years remain the developer's responsibility under the New Homes Quality Code.

30-second check

Which check do I need?

Question 1 of 3
Our recommendation

Get a quote →Call 07928 786820
Good to know

Common questions

Can I have both?

Yes. A PCI is a useful quick check before you move in, and a Post-Completion Survey after you get the keys gives you a far more complete picture, with specialist evidence to get defects fixed.

Is it too late if I've already moved in?

No. A Post-Completion Survey is carried out after you receive the keys – ideally within the two-year builder warranty period, while defects remain the developer's responsibility.

Why does thermal imaging matter?

It identifies insulation gaps, cold bridging, air leakage and concealed leaks – problems hidden behind finishes that a visual checklist inspection cannot see.

What do I get at the end?

A full, independent report tailored to your property: a photographic schedule, thermal images and test readings, ready to submit to your developer and warranty provider.

Don't leave defects to chance.

Book your independent Post-Completion Survey with Snapshot Property Inspection.

Email us07928 786820
Snapshot Property Inspection Ltd · Clyde Offices 2nd Floor, 48 West George St, Glasgow G2 1BP · Registered in Scotland SC673673