Snagging inspections for Darwin Green new builds.
Darwin Green is a major phased neighbourhood on Cambridge's north-west edge, mixing townhouses, family homes and apartments. Three-storey townhouses and phased handovers make a plot-specific inspection worthwhile.
between Huntingdon Road and Histon Road, north-west Cambridge · Builders on site: Barratt · David Wilson Homes · partner builders
Why Darwin Green needs a plot-specific inspection
- Three-storey townhouses add loft, dormer and stair details that are easy to rush.
- Phased build-out means detailing differs between parcels.
- Apartment blocks bring shared services and fire-stopping to check.
Common build flaws to check at Darwin Green
Dormer and roof window flashing
Lead or proprietary flashings poorly dressed around dormers and roof windows, risking water ingress.
NHBC Ch. 7.2
Stair balustrade fixings
Loose newels and balustrades on three-storey stairs — a safety item to record before move-in.
Approved Document K
Cavity insulation gaps
Missing or slumped insulation at floor junctions, found with thermal imaging.
Approved Document L
Fire-stopping at service penetrations
Gaps around pipes and cables passing through compartment walls in apartments.
Approved Document B
Extract fan ducting
Ducts disconnected or terminating in the loft rather than outside.
Approved Document F
Timing tip: Darwin Green parcels complete in batches — book as soon as your notice-to-complete window arrives.
Fixed fees for Darwin Green — no mileage charge
Apartment
1 bed / studio / flat
Pre-completion £320
Full diagnostic £360
2–3 Bed House
Terrace, semi or coach house
Pre-completion £320
Full diagnostic £360
4–5 Bed House
Semi or detached
Pre-completion £410
Full diagnostic £460
Detached 5+ Bed
Large detached / executive
Pre-completion £520
Full diagnostic £590
Book with your next-door neighbour for the same day and you both get £40 off.
New builds on Darwin Green complete in clusters. When two neighbouring plots book the same inspection day, we pass the saving on our travel time straight to you. Mention the Street Pass and your neighbour's plot number when you book — the discount applies to both full inspection fees.
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