Founding of the National Association of Professional Snagging Inspectors (NAPSI)
In a meeting on Tuesday 20th February, the foundation stones were laid for what could become a pivotal organisation within the UK's construction and property industry - the National Association of Professional Snagging Inspectors (NAPSI). Spearheaded by a diverse group of industry experts, this assembly marked the beginning of a concerted effort to regulate, represent, and enhance the snagging profession, a niche yet crucial area that has long awaited formal recognition and standardisation.
David Wilce, a digital marketer introduced the concept. Motivated by a friend's challenges with a new build property and the subsequent discovery of the relatively obscure world of snagging, David realised the need for a platform to educate people about snagging and connect them with local inspectors. He envisioned an association that would lend a voice and credence to snagging professionals, a concept that, despite initial lukewarm interest, gained traction over time.
Echoing the sentiment for formal recognition and regulation, Ian Lively highlighted the necessity of establishing standards within the industry to prevent the inflation of reports with irrelevant content. The comparison with the Institute Clerk of Works was made, suggesting that while affiliations with established bodies like RICS, CIOB, or RPSA might not be the route forward, NAPSI could forge its own path, possibly in alignment yet distinct from such entities.
The discussion branched into various aspects of professionalising and promoting the snagging industry, from the creation of a standardised template similar to Pre-Construction Inspection’s, to advocating for the recognition and differentiation between building inspectors and snagging inspectors. The dialogue underscored the potential conflicts of interest when snagging inspectors work directly with developers, a practice that, while beneficial for collaboration, necessitates clear guidelines to maintain independence and integrity.
The meeting was not without its concerns; debates around the potential affiliation with the Institute of Clerk of Works and the implications of additional costs and deviations from NAPSI's core mission surfaced. Moreover, the challenge of including experienced professionals without formal qualifications was raised, highlighting the association's inclusive ethos.
As practical steps toward building NAPSI's foundation, participants agreed on the immediate creation of a WhatsApp group to foster communication and proposed the future establishment of a Facebook group to engage a wider audience. Suggestions also included leveraging group social accounts to promote the industry collectively and exploring partnerships.
Phil Lucas highlighted the importance of proper governance, and suggested the next meeting should focus on drafting governing documents, outlining rights and responsibilities, and setting a clear agenda to guide NAPSI's strategic direction.
The formation of NAPSI could represent a significant leap towards recognising and professionalising the role of snagging inspectors in the UK. By fostering a community of experts, setting industry standards, and advocating for the profession's value, NAPSI aims to ensure quality, integrity, and transparency within the snagging process, ultimately benefiting both professionals and consumers in the construction and property sectors.
Meeting Notes
Introduction by David Wilce
Background in digital marketing with an interest in the snagging industry following a friend's issues with a new build property.
Highlighted the lack of a platform for snagging education and inspector connectivity; hence, the creation of a snagging directory.
Proposed the idea of a formal body for snagging inspectors due to the industry's unregulated nature, aiming to be involved in promoting and maintaining the NAPSI website.
Founding Membership:
Various participants expressed interest in becoming a founding member of NAPSI.
Importance of SEO:
Discussed by Ian Lively, highlighting the significance of SEO for visibility and recommending using professional services.
Need for Regulation:
Agreement on the necessity to regulate the snagging industry to prevent report inflation with irrelevant information.
Discussion around NAPSI providing industry backing and credibility, distinct from existing bodies like RICS, CIOB, or RPSA.
Promotion and Professionalism:
NAPSI aims to promote the snagging industry and advocate for professionalism and expertise.
Gareth suggested creating a standard PCI-like template for standard inspections.
Qualifications and Experience:
Discussion on including inspectors without formal qualifications but with relevant experience, akin to ICWCI's approach.
Difference Between Inspectors:
Aboyewa emphasised clarifying the roles between building and snagging inspectors, suggesting a case study on the snagging industry in other regions like Canada.
Independence Concerns:
Concerns raised about maintaining independence when snagging inspectors work directly with developers. Discussion on potential conflicts when working with developers and the need for clear guidelines.
Communication Platforms:
Initial setup of a WhatsApp group for immediate communication among members.
Future consideration for a Facebook group to engage a broader audience.
Lack of Recognition:
Mentioned that platforms like Trust a Trader and Check a Trader do not recognise snaggers specifically. NAPSI could help push for things like this to be improved.
Promotion Strategies:
Scott Smith proposed using a group social account for industry-wide promotion.
Discussion on leveraging NHQC's social media following for broader engagement.
Next Steps:
Consider organisation structure, drafting governing documents, and setting an agenda for the next meeting.
Action Items:
Formalise communication platforms for member engagement and industry promotion.
Schedule the next meeting with a focus on governance and strategic planning.
Conclusion:
The meeting laid the groundwork for the formation of NAPSI, highlighting the collective desire to regulate, represent, and elevate the snagging profession. The discussions underscored the importance of establishing clear standards, promoting professionalism, and ensuring the independence of snagging inspectors. The next steps include formalising the association's structure and operational guidelines, with a continued focus on industry advocacy and member engagement.
Use the link below to request access to the NAPSI WhatsApp group. Once added please introduce yourself.
