Sometimes yes, but not in the simple “I demand it and they must comply” sense. In the UK, your ability to make a contractor return and fix snagging items depends on:
- what your contract says (written quotation, scope, payment terms, retention, defects period)
- whether the issue is a true defect / incomplete work versus a change of mind
- whether the work falls below reasonable skill and care (and, for consumers, your statutory rights)
- how you handle the process (evidence, notice, opportunity to remedy)
In practice, you don’t usually “force” a contractor on day one—you create leverage and a paper trail that makes remedying snags the sensible outcome.
Note: This is general information, not legal advice. For complex disputes or large sums, a solicitor can advise on your specific contract and circumstances.
1) Start with the most important question: what are your “snags”?
Contractors will often push back if snags are vague. Before you escalate, be clear whether the items are:
A) Defects or incomplete works (you have a strong position)
Examples:
- poor finishing that doesn’t match the agreed specification
- missing items that were included in the scope
- leaks, faulty drainage, poor sealing, unsafe fixings
- doors/windows not operating properly due to poor fitting
- uneven tiling, cracking due to poor workmanship, loose fittings
B) Wear-and-tear or post-completion damage (weaker position)
Examples:
- scratches caused after you moved back in
- chips/damage from other trades you arranged
- misuse or heavy occupation impacts
C) Changes you now want (not snags)
Examples:
- “I’ve changed my mind about the layout/finish”
- “I want different tiles/paint”
These are variations, not defects.
If it’s category A, you’re typically on firm ground.
2) Your strongest “force” is usually your contract (and your payment position)
If you still haven’t paid the final balance
This is often the biggest leverage point.
If work is incomplete or defective, it’s usually reasonable to:
- withhold a portion that reflects the cost of completing/remedying the defects, or
- agree a retention until snagging is completed.
Important: Don’t withhold money without explaining why and what it relates to. Make it clear and proportionate.
If you have paid in full
You still may have rights, but leverage reduces. Your focus becomes:
- written notification
- giving a reasonable opportunity to fix
- escalating properly if they refuse
If there’s a defects period in the contract
Some building contracts include a “defects liability” or “snagging” period. If that exists, use it:
- notify defects during the period
- request a return visit timetable
- keep written records
3) Your statutory rights (for consumers) can be significant
If you hired the contractor as a consumer (not as a business), consumer protection law generally requires services to be carried out with reasonable care and skill, within a reasonable time, and for a reasonable price if not fixed upfront. If work is substandard, you can typically request a remedy.
How this plays out in real life:
- you notify the contractor of defects
- you give them a chance to put it right
- if they refuse or fail, you may be able to pursue other remedies (price reduction, paying someone else and claiming costs, etc.)
This is one reason keeping everything in writing matters.
4) The correct process to “make” a contractor fix snags (step-by-step)
Step 1: Document your snags properly
A professional snagging list format is best:
- location (room/area)
- defect description
- photo evidence
- what you expect as a remedy (where appropriate)
- priority (urgent vs minor)
This reduces wriggle room and prevents misunderstandings.
Step 2: Notify the contractor in writing
Send an email (or letter) that:
- attaches your snagging list
- states the work appears defective/incomplete
- asks them to confirm a date to inspect and rectify
- sets a reasonable time frame for response (e.g., 7–14 days)
Keep it calm and factual.
Step 3: Give them a reasonable opportunity to remedy
This is important. If you go straight to another contractor without giving the original firm a chance, you can weaken your position (unless the issue is urgent or dangerous).
Agree:
- dates
- access
- sequence of works (especially where multiple trades are involved)
Step 4: Confirm everything after site visits
If they visit and agree items, follow up in writing:
- “Thanks for attending. Please confirm you will rectify items 1–12 by X date…”
Paper trail matters.
Step 5: If they refuse or delay, escalate formally
If the contractor:
- ignores you,
- disputes everything without reason,
- or repeatedly fails to return,
you can escalate step-by-step:
- a formal “notice to remedy” letter
- notifying any trade body membership (if applicable)
- using dispute resolution routes in the contract (if stated)
- seeking legal advice where sums are significant
- in some cases, court action may be the final step
Most disputes settle long before court once the evidence and paper trail are clear.
5) What if the snag is urgent (leaks, safety, active damage)?
If there’s an urgent defect—like active leaks, electrical danger signs, or anything causing ongoing damage—you may need to act quickly to protect the property.
In urgent cases, it can be reasonable to:
- notify the contractor immediately (in writing)
- ask for a same-day/next-day response
- take steps to mitigate damage (temporary measures)
- if they fail to respond, arrange emergency repairs to prevent further harm
Keep records and receipts. This is about preventing the defect from escalating.
6) Common reasons contractors argue about snagging (and how to handle it)
“That’s within tolerance”
Reply with:
- photos and location
- reference to the agreed specification/finish
- a calm request for the proposed remedy
“That wasn’t caused by us”
This is where early evidence helps:
- dated photos
- snagging inspection close to completion
- consistent documentation
“That’s just settlement”
Some shrinkage cracking can be normal. But poor finishing, repeated cracking, loose items, and leaks are not “normal settlement.”
Ask:
- what exact remedial plan they propose
- when it will be completed
“We’ll come back later”
Agree a date in writing. If no date is offered, the snag can drift indefinitely.
7) Realistic expectations: you can’t always force their attendance, but you can enforce outcomes
Even if you can’t physically compel a contractor to show up, you can often enforce a remedy by:
- withholding retention (where contract allows / payment still outstanding)
- using written notice and dispute mechanisms
- recovering the reasonable cost of remedial works if they fail to remedy (in appropriate circumstances)
- escalating via formal complaint, mediation, or legal routes if necessary
The goal is to make refusal more costly than compliance.
8) How to protect yourself on future projects (so snagging is easier)
If you’re still mid-project or planning another, the best protection is contractual:
- staged payments with a clear final payment condition
- written scope and finish standards
- retention until snagging complete
- clear defects period and response times
- photos at key stages before finishes conceal work
This prevents the common scenario where everything is paid and you’re left chasing.
The takeaway
You can’t always “force” a contractor in the immediate sense, but you often can enforce your rights—especially when snags are genuine defects or incomplete work. The strongest approach is:
- document properly,
- notify in writing,
- give opportunity to remedy,
- escalate with a paper trail if they refuse.
That’s what gets results.
Need help presenting your snags so they actually get fixed?
Email mail@howorth.uk or call 07794 400 212. Tell us what works were carried out (extension, refurb, bathroom/kitchen, new build), your stage (completed or ongoing), and what the contractor is disputing. We can advise how to document the snags properly, prioritise the high-risk items, and approach the remedial process