A punch list is a document that details the last tasks that must be carried out before a construction project can be declared complete. Every task that does not conform to the specifications in the construction contract is added by the contractor to the punch list. A punch list often includes little adjustments, modifications, or repairs needed before the release of the final payment.
To ensure that work fulfills specifications as well as receiving payment on a construction project, it is important to understand punch lists. To learn more about punch lists, including examples of what to include and how they might help you get paid, continue reading.
What Purposes do Punch Lists Serve?
The punch list is normally the final stage of the project to confirm that everything has been finished in accordance with the owner’s requirements. Historically, contractors would manually punch holes next to each item on a paper list to indicate that a task was finished, hence the name “punch list.”
All the tasks that need to be finished before the building is ready for habitation are included on a punch list that has been carefully created. We’ve provided some examples of what you might find on a punch list below. Punch work items are typically quick repairs.
What Items Belong on a Punch List?
Project items to test, add, fix, or remove are listed in a punch list. While the precise items will greatly depend on the project, here are some examples.
Things to test
- Appliances
- Equipment
- Windows and doors
- Thermostat
- Plumbing components
- Mechanical components
- Internet/phone/cable
- HVAC zoning
Things to add
- Lighting covers
- Hardware
- Retouching the paint
- Coating/sealant
Things to mend
- Plumbing issues
- Drywall damage
- Drywall damage Pavement crack
- Poor flooring installation
Things to remove
- Equipment
- Tools
- Garbage
- Protective Covers
Who is in Charge of the Things on the Punch List?
The general contractor, owner, architect, and any subcontractors on a construction project all have a part to play in managing the punch list.
Before a final completion certificate for the project can be granted, it’s often the general contractor’s (GC) job to make sure that all these line items are taken care of. The GC may delegate punch work to the subcontractors in charge of specific work areas.
The GC and owner will often conduct a walkthrough to identify any unfinished or non-conforming work and produce the initial punch list. Some subcontractors may be asked to return to the project to address any issues that are still present.
This is as far as the punch list goes for most projects.
The punch list process often places the greatest burden on subcontractors. They are the ones doing the most of the punch work and obtaining all the paperwork and change orders that the GC needs to give the owner. The best course of action in this situation is to begin organizing these documents as soon as you can, as opposed to waiting until the job is complete.
US Framing Is Here to Serve Your Construction Needs
Whether it’s project management, pre-construction, or executing construction, US Framing uses a range of detailed processes, including the punch process discussed in this article. As the nation’s leader in wood construction, US Framing brings to our projects key team members who are experienced and have proven track records in all of the services that we offer. Check out our range of construction services today!
