Top 20 Snagging Issues Found in Dubai Apartments (2025)

New apartments in Dubai often appear flawless during handover—but beneath the surface, dozens of defects can impact comfort, safety, and long-term value. Based on Snagify’s certified inspections, these are the top 20 defects we find most frequently in Dubai homes.

1. AC Not Cooling Properly

Air conditioning systems are often unbalanced, underperforming, or incorrectly calibrated during handover.

2. Water Pressure & Drainage Problems

Low water pressure, slow drains, and faulty P-traps are extremely common.

3. Cracks in Walls and Ceilings

Hairline cracks appear due to movement and poor finishing. We document all of them with photographic evidence.

4. Door & Window Misalignment

Doors often don’t close properly or rub against frames. Sliding doors may get stuck.

5. Electrical Socket Issues

Loose sockets, incorrect wiring, or non-functioning switches.

6. Tile & Grout Defects

Hollow tiles, uneven flooring, poor grouting, and gaps between tiles.

7. Scratched Glass

Balcony and window glass often has scratches from construction.

8. Loose Hinges and Fittings

Cabinets, wardrobes, and bathroom units frequently have loose hinges or poorly installed fittings. Over time, this leads to sagging doors and damage. Snagify checks all hinges and moving parts for proper alignment and stability.

9. Uneven Counters

Kitchen and bathroom countertops are often installed unevenly or without proper leveling. This can cause water pooling, gaps, and long-term damage. We use precision tools to verify level accuracy.

10. Poor Silicone Finishing

Messy or incomplete silicone edges around kitchen counters, bathrooms, and windows can lead to water leakage and mold. We identify missing or sloppy silicone work throughout the property.

11. Paint Drips and Roller Marks

Despite appearing freshly painted, many new apartments have visible roller lines, patchy sections, or paint drips. We thoroughly inspect all walls and ceilings for finishing defects.

12. Cracked Marble or Tiles

Cracked floor tiles, chipped marble edges, and lifted corners are typical in rushed handovers. These defects worsen over time if not corrected before move-in.

13. Noisy Exhaust Fans

Bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans often produce excessive noise due to faulty installation or dust buildup. We test all fans for proper operation and noise levels.

14. Faulty Lights and Flickering Fixtures

Loose wiring or poor-quality fixtures frequently cause lights to flicker or fail. Snagify tests every light, switch, and connection to ensure full functionality.

15. Incorrect Kitchen Installation

Cabinets, drawers, and countertops may be installed incorrectly or misaligned, affecting usability and overall finish. We check for alignment, stability, and proper fitting.

16. Cabinet Doors Not Aligned

Misaligned cabinet doors lead to gaps, friction, and long-term wear. This issue is very common, especially in wardrobes and kitchens. We document all alignment problems clearly.

17. Balcony Door Seal Gaps

Balcony doors often have compromised seals, allowing dust, heat, and noise to enter the apartment. We check all seals and sliding mechanisms to ensure proper closure.

18. Missing Screws in Fixtures

Developers frequently overlook small but important details like missing screws in door handles, locks, electrical plates, and fittings. Snagify ensures every fixture is safely secured.

19. Poor Waterproofing Around Wet Areas

Bathrooms, balconies, and kitchens often have weak waterproofing, leading to leaks and long-term damage. We test all wet areas for signs of moisture, coating gaps, and seal failures.

20. Broken or Missing Door Stoppers

Door stoppers prevent damage to walls and furniture. Many units are missing them entirely or have cheap ones that break quickly. We check all door stops for presence and quality.