Snagging Comes to the App – Streamlining Site Inspections and Aftercare
We’re excited to announce a major enhancement to the Housebuilder Pro mobile app: snagging functionality is now in our mobile app!
Providing site teams a faster, smarter way to manage defects and aftercare directly from their devices. This update is part of our ongoing commitment to improving the efficiency of , especially in light of evolving Part L regulations and the increasing need for real-time site data.
With the new snagging feature, users can log issues on-site with just a few taps, capturing photos, adding notes, and assigning tasks instantly. The intuitive interface ensures that even non-technical users can record and track snags without hassle, while the backend syncs seamlessly with the customer portal to keep everyone informed. Whether it’s a cracked tile, a missing fitting, or a post-handover repair, the app now makes it easier than ever to document and resolve issues efficiently.
This update also supports better communication between site teams and customer care, reducing delays and improving accountability. Notifications and status updates ensure that snags don’t fall through the cracks, and everything is logged for audit and compliance purposes. It’s a smarter way to manage quality—and a big step forward in our mission to digitise the homebuilding journey.
The End of No-Fault Evictions – What It Means for the Future of Housing
More than 11,000 households in England have been evicted through no-fault procedures in the past year, despite the Labour government’s pledge to abolish Section 21 evictions. These evictions allow landlords to remove tenants without providing a reason, and have long been criticised by housing charities and tenant advocacy groups. The Renters’ Rights Bill, which aims to end this practice, has passed through the House of Lords and is expected to be debated in the House of Commons when Parliament returns from its summer recess.
Under the proposed legislation, new tenants will benefit from a 12-month “protected period” during which they cannot be evicted if the landlord wishes to sell or move into the property. After this period, landlords must provide a valid reason and give four months’ notice—double the current requirement. Evictions for reasons such as rent arrears or criminal behaviour will still be permitted.
Shelter, a leading housing charity, has called the continued use of Section 21 “unconscionable,” urging the government to set a clear implementation date. The charity estimates that around 950 households could be evicted for every month the ban is delayed. The National Residential Landlords Association has also called for clarity, citing confusion among landlords and increased pressure on the court system.
Meanwhile, housing affordability remains a concern, particularly in Northern Ireland. According to the Office for National Statistics, the average rent-to-income ratio in NI rose from 22% in 2020 to 25.3% in 2024. Although still one of the more affordable regions in the UK, the trend reflects a broader issue of rent increases outpacing wage growth. London remains the least affordable region, with renters spending nearly 42% of their income on housing.
As the Renters’ Rights Bill moves closer to becoming law, stakeholders across the housing sector—including tenants, landlords, developers, and policymakers—are watching closely. The reforms are expected to reshape the rental landscape, offering greater security for tenants while introducing new responsibilities and expectations for landlords.
New build House Prices Show Mixed Trends Across UK Regions
New data from Propertymark reveals a varied picture for new build house prices across the UK, with some regions seeing significant drops while others experience notable increases. In the East Midlands, average prices for new instructions fell by £43,078 between July 2024 and July 2025, marking the steepest decline nationally. The North East followed with a £37,123 drop, and the South West saw a decrease of £30,826.
However, not all regions saw downward movement. The East of England recorded a £20,763 increase in average newbuild prices, bringing the regional average to £523,714. The West Midlands also saw growth, with prices rising by £13,182 to £384,443. These fluctuations reflect a complex market shaped by regional demand, supply constraints, and broader economic factors.
From a national perspective, the average price for a new build property coming to market now stands at approximately £427,143. This figure presents a significant affordability challenge, particularly for first-time buyers. With many mortgage lenders typically offering loans up to five times annual income, the gap between earnings and property prices remains a key concern.
To address affordability and housing supply, the UK Government is pressing ahead with the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, which aims to facilitate the construction of 1.5 million new homes before the next general election. Devolved administrations across the UK have also set ambitious targets to ensure housing supply keeps pace with demand.
Propertymark’s Chief Executive, Nathan Emerson, noted that while price decreases may offer opportunities for aspiring homeowners, affordability remains a major hurdle. He emphasised the importance of ensuring a steady flow of new homes in areas where demand is highest, and called for realistic pricing to make homeownership a viable goal for more people.
