❗ Why 90% of Dubai Homebuyers Skip Snagging—and Regret It Later

The Property Marketing
2 days ago
4 min read

Buying a home in Dubai is a dream come true. Whether it's your first home, an investment, or a family upgrade, the excitement of finally receiving the keys is unmatched. But amid this excitement, there’s a crucial step that many buyers overlook — snagging. Shockingly, over 90% of Dubai homebuyers skip this step, and most end up regretting it later.

In this article, we’ll uncover why property snagging is the most overlooked — yet most essential — part of your home buying journey in Dubai. From hidden defects to costly repairs, we’ll show you how skipping snagging can cost you more than just peace of mind.

🔍 What Is Snagging and Why Does It Matter?

Snagging is the process of inspecting a property before final handover to identify any issues, defects, or unfinished work. It involves checking everything — from cracks in the ceiling and misaligned tiles to leaking pipes and faulty electrical sockets.

Once a snagging inspection is done, you receive a comprehensive report with:

📸 Photos of each issue
⚠️ Severity rating (minor to major)
🛠️ Recommended actions

This report is then submitted to the developer for rectification — all before you officially take possession.

➡️ Book Your Professional Snagging Inspection Today

🚫 Why Do Most Buyers Skip Snagging?

Despite the clear benefits, many homebuyers in Dubai skip snagging. Here’s why:

❌ 1. Lack of Awareness

Most buyers simply don’t know that snagging exists — especially first-time buyers. They assume a newly constructed or handed-over home is perfect.

❌ 2. Trust in Developers

Buyers often trust developers blindly, believing that a brand name guarantees quality. Unfortunately, even top-tier developers can miss critical defects.

❌ 3. Rushing the Handover

In their eagerness to move in or start renting the property, buyers skip snagging to avoid delays. But this shortcut can lead to long-term headaches.

❌ 4. Cost Concerns

Some buyers see snagging as an extra cost. But a few hundred dirhams spent today can save thousands in repair bills later.

➡️ See How Snagging Saves You Money

💸 Real Regrets: What Happens When You Skip Snagging

Here’s what homeowners commonly face when they skip a snagging inspection:

🧯 1. Safety Hazards

Exposed wires
Loose sockets
Gas leaks
Faulty plumbing

These aren’t just annoying — they’re dangerous.

🧱 2. Structural and Aesthetic Issues

Uneven tiles
Peeling paint
Cracked ceilings
Misaligned doors/windows

These may seem cosmetic but can affect the property’s long-term durability and resale value.

💡 3. Utility Inefficiencies

Faulty AC units
Water leaks
Poor insulation

These issues spike your DEWA bills and impact comfort.

🧾 4. Unexpected Repair Costs

Without snagging, all defects discovered post-handover become your problem — both legally and financially.

Common Issue	Cost Without Snagging	Covered If Snagged?
AC Gas Recharge	AED 2,000	✅ Yes
Plumbing Leak	AED 3,500	✅ Yes
Repainting Walls	AED 2,000+	✅ Yes
Fixing Tiles	AED 1,500–3,000	✅ Yes