Consider you are about to move into a newly constructed property.

The excitement of stepping into a

fresh, pristine space is obvious. However, as you start settling in, you notice a few issues: a door that
doesn't close properly, a patch of wall that isn't painted evenly, or perhaps a light switch that doesn't
work. These minor defects, though seemingly negligible, can dilute your excitement about a new home.
This is where the concept of snagging comes into play.

Snagging is a crucial construction process that aims to identify and rectify defects in new construction
before the client takes ownership. This blog will help you discover what is snagging in construction and
how AEC teams rely on snagging list to conduct surveys and audits of construction projects in their final
stages. Let’s start with some basics.

What is Snagging in Construction?

Snagging, in construction, refers to the identification and rectification of defects or incomplete works in
a newly constructed building. It is a quality control process carried out towards the end of a construction
project, typically during the final inspection phase. The goal is to ensure that all aspects of the
construction meet the contractual standards and specifications before the project is handed over to the
client.

Snagging ensures that the property meets the required standards and specifications. The aim is to
provide a safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing environment for its occupants. The process lies in
creating a snagging list, a detailed document listing all the defects that need attention. This list serves as
a roadmap for the contractor to ensure all issues are addressed before the project is deemed complete.

The process involves carrying out a detailed audit to validate the final construction product by the
following factors:

· Identification of Defects

· Documentation of Defects

· Rectification Process

· Verification and Approval

· Final Handover

Identification of Defects

This involves thoroughly inspecting the property to identify any issues, ranging from minor cosmetic
defects to significant structural problems. Examples include poorly finished plasterwork, misaligned
doors and windows, or faulty electrical installations.
Documentation of Defects

Each identified defect is documented in detail, often accompanied by photographs, to create a

comprehensive snagging list. This list is essential for the contractor to address all issues systematically.

Rectification Process

The contractor is responsible for rectifying the identified defects. This may involve various trades, such
as carpenters, electricians, and painters, to ensure all issues are resolved to the client's satisfaction.

Verification and Approval

Once the defects have been addressed, a follow-up inspection is conducted to verify that all issues have
been rectified. The client must approve the completed works before the project is officially handed over.

Final Handover

Upon successful rectification of all defects, the project is handed over to the client, marking the
completion of the construction process.

Snag List vs. Punch List: What is the Difference?

If you are not in the UK and asked about what is Snag List in construction. Do not get tricked with
interchangeable terms. In the construction industry, the terms "snagging" and "punch list" are often
used interchangeably, albeit in different regions. In the United Kingdom, the process is commonly called
snagging or creating a snag list. Meanwhile, in the United States, the same process is known as creating
a punch list.

Despite the difference in terminology, both snagging and punch lists serve the same purpose. The
process is integral to maintaining high construction quality standards and client satisfaction, regardless
of the terminology used.

Fun Fact:

Another fun fact and mini history lesson is that the term "punch list" comes from the process of actually
punching holes in a list to mark which items needed fixing. This practice dates back to when physical lists
were used, and a hole punch was an effective way to indicate completed tasks or identified defects.

Understanding Snagging Lists

The primary purpose of snagging lists in construction is to ensure that all aspects of a project meet the
specified quality standards and contractual obligations before handover to the client. The primary goal is
to:
 ● Identify and document defects
● Highlight and complete unfinished work
● Notice and address deviations from the agreed-upon specifications

This systematic approach ensures that all identified issues are addressed, rectified, and verified, thereby
guaranteeing that the final deliverable is of the highest possible quality. By comprehensively detailing
these discrepancies, snagging lists facilitate efficient communication between contractors,
subcontractors, and clients, streamlining the remediation process and preventing potential disputes.

The term 'snagging' can be interpreted differently across various stakeholders in the construction
industry.

● For contractors, snagging might be viewed as a final quality control measure, ensuring that all
work is completed to the highest standards and that minor defects are rectified before project
completion.
● From the perspective of clients or project owners, snagging is often seen as a critical phase that
assures that their investment meets the desired specifications and quality.
● For project managers, snagging represents a comprehensive checklist to verify that all tasks are
completed and any issues are resolved, ensuring a smooth transition from construction to
operational status.

Common Items Included in Snagging Lists

AEC teams categorise the snag list items to address and rectify issues systematically, ensuring a seamless
and high-quality project handover. Let’s have a look at these categories and items included in each
category for a quick overview.

Indoor Items

Painting and Finishes

● Scratches, smudges, or uneven paint surfaces

● Incomplete or missing paint in corners and edges

Electrical Installations:

● Non-functional light switches or sockets

● Poorly installed or loose fixtures

Plumbing:

● Leaks under sinks or around fittings

 ● Incorrect water pressure or temperature issues

Carpentry:

● Misaligned doors or windows

● Defective or damaged cabinetry

Outdoor Items

Exterior Finishes:

● Cracks or chips in render or cladding

● Incomplete or uneven brickwork

Landscaping:

● Improperly laid turf or planting

● Drainage issues leading to water pooling

External Lighting:

● Non-operational outdoor lights

● Poorly positioned or installed fixtures

Structural Elements

Roofing:

● Loose or missing tiles

● Inadequate sealing around chimneys or vents

Foundations:

● Visible cracks or settlement issues

● Poorly finished or exposed concrete

Mechanical and HVAC Systems

Heating Systems:

● Uneven heating or malfunctioning radiators

 ● Faulty thermostats

Ventilation:

● Inadequate airflow or blockages in ducts

● Noisy or inefficient fans

Categories of Snags Based on Scope and Nature

By understanding and addressing different categories of snags, construction professionals can
significantly improve project outcomes and ensure safety, quality, and client satisfaction. Let’s examine
snagging categories based on their nature and scope as follows:

· Omitted Aspects of the Project

· Problems That Take Time to Emerge

· Poor Craftsmanship

· Design and Material Problems

· Hidden Defects

Let’s discuss it one by one.

Omitted Aspects of the Project

Forgotten aspects of a project often include elements that were either overlooked during planning or
omitted during execution. For instance, missing electrical outlets in key areas, uninstalled handrails, or
omitted insulation in walls can have significant implications.

These oversights can lead to operational inefficiencies, safety hazards, and increased costs due to the
necessity of post-completion modifications. For example, missing insulation can result in higher energy
costs and compromised thermal comfort. At the same time, the absence of handrails poses safety risks,
particularly in high-population facilities like hospitals or corporate setups.

Preventive Measures:

Comprehensive planning and thorough checklists should be used to prevent such oversights. Detailed
project schedules and rigorous site inspections can help ensure that all aspects of the project are
addressed. Employing Building Information Modelling (BIM) can also assist in visualizing and tracking
project components, thereby reducing the likelihood of omissions.

Problems That Take Time to Emerge

Certain issues, such as plaster cracks and foundation shifts, may not be immediately evident upon
project completion but can emerge over time due to natural settling, material degradation, or
environmental factors. Plaster cracks, for example, can result from building movement or improper
curing, while foundation shifts might be caused by soil settlement or inadequate compaction.

Long-term Monitoring and Maintenance:

Implementing a robust post-construction monitoring plan is crucial to identifying and addressing these
latent issues. Regular inspections and maintenance schedules should be established to detect early signs
of distress. For foundations, periodic assessments using techniques like geotechnical monitoring can
help identify and mitigate shifts before they compromise structural integrity.

Poor Craftsmanship
Poor craftsmanship can manifest in various ways, such as uneven tiling, improperly installed fixtures, or
sloppy paintwork. Examples include tiles that are misaligned or have inconsistent grout lines, electrical
outlets that are not flush with the wall, or paint that shows visible brush marks and drips.

Ensuring Quality Control:

Stringent quality control measures must be implemented to ensure high standards of workmanship. This
includes hiring skilled labor, providing adequate training, and conducting regular inspections throughout
the construction process. Establishing clear quality benchmarks and employing independent quality
auditors can further help maintain craftsmanship standards.

Design and Material Problems

Incorrect design can lead to functional inefficiencies, safety hazards, and increased costs. For instance,
poorly designed drainage systems can accumulate water. Issues like these can further lead to structural
damage and health hazards from mold growth. Inadequate spatial planning can also compromise the
usability and comfort of the space.

Ensuring Material Quality:

Using substandard materials can severely impact a structure's longevity and performance. For example,
low-quality concrete might result in weaker foundations, while inferior plumbing materials can lead to
frequent leaks and water damage. Ensuring that all materials meet the specified standards and are
suitable for the intended project is essential for it’s durability and functionality.

Hidden Defects
Latent or hidden defects are flaws that are not immediately detectable during standard inspections but
become apparent over time. Such hidden aspects also have the potential to damage life or property. For
instance, fire breakouts due to electrical faults or malfunctioning equipment or subsurface structural
weaknesses due to water leakages.
Long-term Impact and Legal Considerations:

The long-term impact of latent defects can be significant, potentially leading to major repairs or even
structural failures. These defects often necessitate costly and invasive remedial work, which can disrupt
building operations and impact overall project value. Legally, latent defects can lead to disputes
between clients and contractors, often resulting in cumbersome litigation and fines. It is essential to
have clear contractual terms addressing the liability and remediation responsibilities for latent defects,
including appropriate warranties and guarantees.

Step-by-Step Guide to Snagging in Bluebeam Cloud

Introduction to Bluebeam Cloud - Learn How to Access Bluebeam Cloud with your BBID

Video Caption: Introduction to Bluebeam Cloud

You now clearly understand what is snag in construction. Let’s look at the practical way to conduct a
snagging survey in Bluebeam, a market-leading AEC software for PDF document management and field
operations. Bluebeam Cloud offers all the features and tools to conduct snagging in construction
without disrupting the project deliverables. The solution's centralised nature allows in-house and on-site
teams to access crucial project files and becomes part of the audit trail anywhere and anytime. Let’s
discover the steps to carry out snagging in construction with Bluebeam Cloud as follows:

· Step 1: Open Bluebeam Cloud and Access Project

· Step 2: Access Punch (Snag) Items

· Step 3: Open the Drawing and Place Snag Items

· Step 4: Fill in Snag Item Details

· Step 5: Save and Manage Snag Items

· Step 6: Communication and Reporting

Step 1: Open Bluebeam Cloud and Access Project

How to Use Snag Items in Bluebeam Cloud

Video Caption: Snagging in Bluebeam | Step-by-step video guide

1A. Open Bluebeam Cloud on your desktop.

1B. Navigate to the Projects tab and click to open a project that has already been created.
*If you need help creating projects, refer to our video on Bluebeam Cloud Projects at the end of this
section.

Step 2: Access Punch (Snag) Items

Click the Punch Option from the side panel on the left.

Since no punch or snag items are saved here, you can create new ones directly on your drawings.

Step 3: Open the Drawing and Place Snag Items

3A. Go to the Drawings Tab and click to open a drawing saved in your Bluebeam Cloud project.
3B. Zoom into the Desired Drawing Region where you want to place the snag.

3C. Click the Punch Symbol in the bottom left corner of your workspace to mark the punch or snag.

3D. Click to Mark Your Snag Item in the desired drawing region.

Step 4: Fill in Snag Item Details

A New Punch Window will open where you need to fill in the following details:

● Location: Specify the exact location of the snag.

● Description: Add a detailed description of the snag item.
● Priority: Set the priority level (e.g., High, Medium, Low).
 ● Due Date: Add the due date for resolving the snag item.
● Assignee: Mention the team member responsible for addressing the snag.
● Scope of Work: Provide clarity on the scope of work required for the snag item.
● Attachments: Add pictures or other visual information to highlight the snag issues.

Once you are done, click the Save Button (on the bottom right corner of the punch window) to create
the snag item with a timestamp.

Step 5: View Saved Snag Items

Go to the Punch Tab to view and manage your snag items.

From here, you can edit, comment on, or generate reports of your snag items in PDF or Excel format.

Step 6: Communication and Reporting

Use the Comments Tab after clicking the saved snag (punch) items to post comments and mention team
members about the snagging workflow that is currently in progress. This will trigger communication so
that you can collaborate effectively with your team members.

Example of Snag Item Template in Bluebeam

● Location: Room 205, East Wall
● Description: The paint is chipped and peeling off the wall near the window.
● Priority: High
● Due Date: 2024-07-20
● Assignee: John Doe
● Scope of Work: Repaint the affected area and inspect for further damage.
● Attachments: (Pictures or files, if any)

Projects in Bluebeam Cloud

Video Caption: Bluebeam Cloud Projects - Everything You Need to Know

Role of AEC Teams in Construction Snagging

In construction projects, the snagging process involves multiple stakeholders who play specific roles
during two main phases:

· Identification (making the snag list)

· Resolution (addressing the snag list)

Each stakeholder’s responsibility is to ensure the project meets the required standards before the final
handover. Let’s look at each stakeholder and their associated responsibilities.

Owner

The owner's primary role is to verify that the project meets their expectations and contractual
requirements.

Phase Involvement for Owner

Identification Phase: The owner conducts a detailed inspection of the completed work, identifying any
defects, incomplete tasks, or deviations from the project specifications. They list these observations in
the snag list. The owner must scrutinise every aspect of the work, ask clarifying questions, and ensure
that all concerns are documented comprehensively.

Resolution Phase: After the contractor addresses the snag list items, the owner performs another
walkthrough to verify that all issues have been resolved satisfactorily. The owner’s final sign-off is crucial
for project completion and acceptance.

Responsibilities

● Conduct detailed inspections

● Document defects and incomplete work
● Communicate concerns and expectations clearly
● Verify resolution of identified issues

Contractor

The contractor oversees the entire snagging process, ensuring that the appropriate parties resolve all
identified issues.

Phase Involvement for Contractor

Identification Phase: The contractor reviews the owner’s snag list, making any necessary additions
based on their inspections. They ensure that the snag list is comprehensive and that all identified issues
are addressed.

Resolution Phase: The contractor coordinates with subcontractors to address the snag list items. They
must manage the remediation process, ensuring that all defects are corrected to the required standards
and within the agreed timeline. The contractor also performs interim inspections to verify progress and
quality.

Responsibilities

● Review and expand the snag list

● Coordinate and communicate with subcontractors
● Monitor and ensure timely resolution of issues
● Conduct interim inspections for quality control

Subcontractors

Subcontractors are responsible for rectifying specific defects identified in their scope of work.
Phase Involvement

Resolution Phase: Subcontractors receive the snag list from the contractor detailing the issues within
their specific trade. They must address each listed defect, ensuring that all work is completed to the
specified standards. Subcontractors must also explain their fixes and justify any deviations if they cannot
meet the specifications.

Responsibilities

● Address defects and incomplete tasks in their trade

● Ensure work meets specified standards
● Communicate and justify any deviations or challenges
● Provide updates to the contractor on progress

Architect/Designer

Architects and designers verify that the completed work aligns with the project’s design specifications
and aesthetic goals.

Phase Involvement

Identification Phase: Architects and designers review the completed work against the original design
documents. They ensure that the construction meets the design intent and identify any discrepancies or
deviations.

Resolution Phase: They may be consulted to clarify design specifications and approve corrective
measures. Their expertise is critical in ensuring that design integrity is maintained.

Responsibilities

● Verify that construction matches design specifications

● Identify design discrepancies or deviations
● Guide design-related corrections
● Approve corrective measures to maintain design integrity

Workflow and Sign-Off

Once the snag list has been compiled and distributed, each stakeholder addresses their responsibilities
within the specified timeframe. A final walkthrough is scheduled with the owner and contractor to verify
the resolution of all listed items. Once no new issues are found, the owner’s sign-off confirms that the
project meets all contractual and quality requirements, marking the official completion of the project.
This systematic approach ensures accountability, quality, and client satisfaction throughout the snagging
process.

Importance of Documentation and Communication

Documentation in construction projects is essential for ensuring transparency, accountability, and
accuracy. It provides a comprehensive record of all project activities, decisions, and changes, which is
crucial for:

● Quality assurance
● Dispute resolution
● Progress tracking
● Regulatory compliance
● Historical data analysis

Proper documentation ensures that materials, processes, and workmanship meet the required
standards, and it provides evidence for resolving disputes that may arise during or after the project.

Additionally, maintaining detailed records allows project managers to track progress against schedules
and budgets, identify deviations early, and implement corrective actions promptly. Comprehensive
documentation also ensures compliance with various regulations and standards, avoiding legal
complications and providing valuable data for future project planning and decision-making.

It further facilitates open communication that:

● Fosters transparency
● Builds trust among all parties involved
● Keeps everyone in the loop about the project's status, challenges, and progress

Efficient communication reduces misunderstandings and errors, leading to smoother workflows and
increased productivity. By ensuring that instructions and information are clearly conveyed and
understood, effective communication enhances the overall success of construction projects.

Tools and Technology for Snagging

There are various tools for snagging in construction. Choosing the right tool that gives liberty of remote
access is always recommended to facilitate both in-house and on-site construction teams. This is where
Bluebeam comes in handy, as it offers a centralised platform where all project documentation is stored
and easily accessible. This includes drawings, specifications, contracts, reports, and snag lists. Having all
critical information in one place ensures that stakeholders can access the latest documents, reducing
the risk of working with outdated or incorrect information.
Subscription for Bluebeam comes with access to

● Bluebeam Revu (For desktop users)

● Bluebeam Studio (For desktop and Cloud)
● Bluebeam Cloud (For desktop, web, and iOS users)

Bluebeam Cloud facilitates real-team collaboration and efficient management of field operations,
including RFI, Submittals, and Snagging in construction. With a complete suite of AEC solutions,
Bluebeam is a top choice of AEC professionals and is used by over 3 Million experts around the globe.
The snagging capabilities of Bluebeam are second to none, offering everything you expect from such a
leading construction snagging cloud solution.

Why Choose Bluebeam for Snagging in Construction?

Bluebeam Cloud offers field practical tools with unmatched efficiency for in-house, remote, and on-site
construction teams to conduct surveys. Let’s examine what Bluebeam Cloud offers to make snagging in
construction seamless.

Sharing of Information

With Bluebeam Cloud, sharing information and snagging items becomes seamless. Users can easily
upload, share, and collaborate on documents in real-time. Snag lists can be updated and exported to
distribute instantly, ensuring that all parties have the latest information and can act accordingly. The
ability to mark up documents and add comments directly within the platform enhances clarity and
collaboration.

Anytime, Anywhere Access

Bluebeam Cloud is designed to be accessible from desktop, web, and iOS devices, allowing stakeholders
to access project information and collaborate from anywhere at any time. This flexibility is particularly
helpful for site managers and field personnel who need to access and update information on the go.
Whether in the office or on-site, users can view and edit documents, ensuring that the project continues
to move forward without delays.

Enhanced Collaboration and Communication

The platform’s communication tools, including real-time notifications and collaborative features, ensure
that all stakeholders are kept informed of updates and changes. This ensures better coordination and
quicker decision-making, as everyone has immediate access to the latest project data and can
communicate efficiently.

Efficiency and Productivity

By streamlining documentation and communication processes, Bluebeam Cloud significantly enhances
overall project efficiency and productivity. It reduces the time spent on administrative tasks, such as
searching for documents or manually updating snag lists, allowing stakeholders to focus on more critical
activities.

(We will position Bluebeam here.)

Digital vs. Traditional Snagging Methods

Digital snagging methods are transforming traditional paper-based approaches. Practical tools like
Bluebeam Revu offer advancements that lead to more efficient, error-free, and streamlined snagging
processes. Let’s examine how digital technologies are revolutionizing field team snagging workflows.

Accuracy and Error Reduction

Digital snagging methods use software and mobile applications to record and track defects, ensuring
higher accuracy than traditional paper-based methods. Digital tools minimise the risk of human error in
data entry, interpretation, and communication. They also reduce the likelihood of information being lost
or misinterpreted, which is common with handwritten notes.

Real-time Updates and Collaboration

Digital snagging tools allow real-time updates and instant communication among stakeholders. As issues
are identified and logged on-site using mobile devices, the information is immediately accessible to all
relevant parties. This instant access facilitates quicker decision-making and more efficient resolution of
snags, unlike traditional methods where communication delays can slow down the process.

Centralised Data and Easy Access

Newer generation digital platforms like Bluebeam provide a centralised repository for all snagging data,
making it easily accessible from anywhere. This contrasts with traditional methods, where paper-based
records can be cumbersome to manage, store, and retrieve. Centralised digital records ensure that all
stakeholders can access the most current information, enhancing transparency and coordination.

Enhanced Documentation and Reporting

Digital snagging tools offer advanced documentation capabilities, including attaching photos and
detailed annotations to each snag item. These rich media records provide a clear visual representation
of issues, making it easier to understand and address them. Additionally, digital tools often include
automated reporting features, which streamline the creation and distribution of comprehensive
snagging reports.
Integration and Efficiency

Digital snagging systems can integrate with other project management and construction software,
creating a seamless survey process that enhances overall project efficiency. This integration ensures that
snagging data is part of a larger project ecosystem, which is crucial for facilitating better project tracking
and management. Traditional paper-based methods, on the other hand, are often siloed and require
manual data entry into other systems, leading to data redundancy and inefficiencies.

Best Practices for Effective Snagging

When we discuss what is snag in construction, it is also crucial to know the best practices involved in
snagging surveys. By implementing these best practices as follows, construction professionals can
enhance the effectiveness of the snagging process, ensuring high-quality project outcomes and client
satisfaction:

· Leveraging Digital Tools

· Proactive Issue Identification

· Integrated Workflows and Collaboration

· Scheduled Quality Audits

· Detailed Records and Traceability

· Post-Project Evaluation

Let’s look at each of them.

Leveraging Digital Tools

Buy advanced digital tools and software for snagging, like Bluebeam. Investing in market-leading digital
technologies enhances the accuracy and efficiency of inspections, allowing for precise identification and
documentation of defects. Digital tools also facilitate real-time updates and instant communication,
streamlining the snagging process.

Proactive Issue Identification

Implement a proactive approach to identify and rectify defects as early as possible during the
construction process. Utilise continuous inspection techniques and advanced technologies such as
Building Information Modelling (BIM) to detect potential issues early, preventing them from escalating
into larger problems. This approach reduces rework and ensures timely resolution of snags, thereby
maintaining project timelines and quality standards.

Integrated Workflows and Collaboration

Establish integrated workflows that promote seamless collaboration between main contractors and
subcontractors. Utilise digital snagging tools that enable real-time communication and task assignment.
Ensure that each subcontractor understands their responsibilities and the importance of addressing
snag items promptly. Regular coordination meetings and the use of collaborative platforms can help
maintain alignment and efficiency in resolving snags.

Scheduled Quality Audits

Conduct scheduled quality audits and regular inspection surveys throughout the project lifecycle. Use
standardised checklists and digital inspection tools to ensure consistency and thoroughness. Document
all findings comprehensively and update snag lists regularly. This systematic approach ensures
continuous monitoring of project quality and timely identification of emerging issues.

Detailed Records and Traceability

Maintain comprehensive and detailed records of all snagging activities, including photographic evidence,
annotations, and descriptions of defects. Store and manage these records using cloud-based platforms,
ensuring traceability and easy access for all stakeholders. Detailed documentation is crucial for tracking
the progress of snag resolution and for any future reference or dispute resolution.

Post-Project Evaluation

Conduct a post-completion evaluation to review the snagging process and identify areas for
improvement. Gather feedback from all stakeholders and document lessons learned. This evaluation
helps refine snagging practices for future projects and ensures continuous improvement in quality
management.

Conclusion
You now have a clear understanding of what is snagging in construction. Creating a robust snagging
survey and a sharable snag list in construction is mandatory to avoid any reputation damage, lawsuits,
and disputes during or after the project handover. The responsibility lies on contractors and other
associated project handovers to proactively become a part of snagging in construction, leading to an
expected and promised project completion without any minor or crucial aspect left unattended or
neglected.
Bluebeam offers all the features and solutions that you expect from a market-leading snagging tool for
contractors. It offers a quick and easy-to-use platform for sub-contractors to collaborate with
contractors and other project stakeholders, along with a second-to-none document management
solution and field tools like RFI, Submittals, and Snag in construction. Looking forward to shifting your
traditional snagging workflows to a more robust, digital snagging solution? Look no further than
Bluebeam. Connect with our team of experts to find and buy the solutions that best serve your needs.