Practical completion means the work is finished and usable, with only minor items outstanding. It is not a synonym for 'nearly done'.
Producing a useful snag list
Walk the job in daylight, room by room, with the works complete and cleaned. Record specific, locatable items rather than general impressions, and separate genuine defects from change requests.
Defects are the contractor's to fix. Changes of mind are variations, and being clear about which is which keeps the end of the job straightforward.
Closing it out
Agree a realistic period for the list to be completed, allowing for anything that needs re-ordering. Then re-inspect together and sign the list off rather than leaving it open-ended.
Some items only appear after a heating season — small shrinkage cracks in new plaster are normal and are usually dealt with at a later decoration touch-up rather than immediately.
The handover pack
Building control completion certificate where applicable, electrical and gas certification, product warranties and manuals, paint and tile references for future touch-ups, and the written workmanship guarantee.
Knowing the exact paint colour two years later is a small thing that owners are consistently grateful for.
Common questions
What is practical completion?
The point at which the works are finished and usable with only minor outstanding items, which are recorded on the snagging list.
Are hairline cracks a defect?
Fine shrinkage cracking in new plaster is normal as the building dries, and is usually addressed at a later touch-up rather than as a defect.
How long should snagging take?
A defined, agreed period suited to the list — days for minor items, longer where anything needs re-ordering.
What documents should I get?
Completion and compliance certificates, product warranties, finish references and the written workmanship guarantee.