Insights · Buying guide · 5 min read
What to Look for When Viewing a New Build
A practical checklist for UK buyers touring show homes and unfinished plots — from finish quality to snag lists and warranty cover.
Viewing a new build is different from buying a second-hand home. Much of what you see in a show home is staged, and unfinished plots can hide issues that only appear after handover.
Focus on build quality in the rooms you will use every day: kitchens, bathrooms, and main living spaces. Check for even plaster, aligned doors, and solid windows and patio doors.
Ask about the NHBC or equivalent warranty, the snagging process, and how aftercare is handled once you move in. Compare what the sales team promises with what recent buyers say in independent reviews.