What’s a Construction Punch List and How Do Contractors Use One
A construction punch list comprises tasks and items that need to be completed or fixed before the project can be handed over. Creating an accurate punch list is essential in delivering a successful project. This step is performed last in the lifecycle of a construction project. This ensures that all work done can be reviewed and double-checked.
To ensure the best review process, the contractor, subcontractor, owner, and architect should all walk through the project together. Each has a specific role in ensuring the punch list is completed successfully. Also, having multiple sets of eyes will help catch all remaining issues and flaws.
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How to Create a Construction Punch List
Usually, a construction punch list is created before the project is completed. Specifically, companies will start a punch list when the construction project reaches substantial completion.
Substantial completion is a legal term used within the construction industry. It marks the point at which the owner rather than the contractor is responsible for the project. The American Institute of Architects determines substantial completion as the moment when the owner can occupy the building or the building can be used for its intended use.
To create a construction punch list, the owner, contractor, and other stakeholders walk through the project and list out any remaining work. Designers and architects attend to make sure the building matches their plans, while subcontractors and contractors attend to determine if any issues are reasonable or unreasonable.
This last part is crucial because every project will have some flaws. So reasonable deficiencies must be defined and explained. This can include minor flaws that meet all specifications, like a small ding in the floor or paint splatter on a pipe. Unreasonable flaws are errors that must be fixed. This could also be the walls being the wrong color or even bigger issues.
The punch list is a to-do list to successfully and fully complete a construction project.
Roles Involved in Creating a Construction Punch List
Every role in the construction project should have a spot on the walkthrough because they need to know what their responsibilities may be. The owner or client will probably lead the walkthrough with the contractor and subcontractors becoming responsible for last-minute changes or fixes. Here is a breakdown of the roles and their responsibilities in creating a construction punch list.
Owner – The owner or client will lead the walkthrough and inspect the work. They must ask questions about anything they might not understand. The owner should list any incomplete work or work that was not completed properly or according to the contract. They must give the contractor their punch list so these issues can be resolved.
Architect/Designer – The architect or designer’s role is a rather small one in this part of the construction process. They must confirm that their recommended designs were built accordingly. They must also ensure that any changes made were approved by them and all appropriate bodies.
General Contractor – The general contractor may go on a walkthrough with the owner but should also examine all building details on their own. Using the owner’s construction punch list and their walkthrough they will create punch lists for the subcontractors and trade contractors that worked on the project.
Subcontractors – The subcontractors will take the punch lists and address each request. Some of these addresses could explain why certain elements might not be made to specifications. They will also have to address and document all changes and explain what fixes were made.
With this completed, it is easier for the project to close out. These lists and explanations will have to be turned in to the owner or client for approval. Once the punch lists are approved the process is complete.
Construction Punch List Template and Item Examples
A construction punch list can contain tasks of all shapes and sizes. They can be small enough to be fixed right away or large enough to take a whole day or more.
Large-scale projects, though, will always result in a longer punch list. The contractor’s experience dictates how a construction punch list should be made for each project.
There are two aspects that a construction punch list template should cover. Firstly, the template should include a list of general items that must be checked or inspected for the entire building. Secondly, if an item on the list requires fixing, it should be marked accordingly with as much detail as possible.
For example, testing water connections is an important punch item that must be done for the entire building (washrooms, kitchens, porches, etc). If one of the faucets is leaking, it should be marked alongside the room or location and assigned to the plumber.
The following template should get you started on your first construction punch list. Do note, though, that you are free to edit it to add more columns or details as you see fit.
| Room/Floor | Item | Description | Assignee | Start Date | Due Date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kitchen (GF) | Sink and Faucets: Check leakages and water flow. | The water flow is low. Check the facets and water pipes for blockages and issues. | Plumber | May 2 | May 3 | Incomplete |
| Lights: Check all connections. | All lights are working. | May 2 | – | Complete | ||
| Exhaust Fan: Check connections. | The exhaust fan is not turning on. | Electrician | May 2 | May 3 | Incomplete | |
| Cabinets: Check for cracks and test hardware. | No damage was found, and all cabinets are opening/closing smoothly. | May 2 | – | Complete | ||
| Walls: Check the color and the paint for blemishes. | ||||||
| Flooring: Check the tiles for cracks and damages. |
How to Aim for Zero Construction Punch List
Going for a zero construction punch list is an ambitious goal of many construction companies. The idea is that by the time the project reaches substantial completion, there are no punch lists at the end. By not having to make many punch list changes projects are more profitable. There are many ways for companies to be able to improve their chances of going for zero-punch.
By improving quality control procedures, and enforcing clear contract documents, documentation, and communication companies should be able to go for zero.
The first step to getting close to a zero construction punch list is to have clear contract documents. Complete documents should cover all specifications to prevent the amount of necessary rework.
Next contractors need to enforce documentation and communication across all stakeholders. This ensures there is documentation to back up any changes, and communication to show when changes were made.
Finally, quality control must become a top priority. Every step of the project should be checked for quality before starting a new phase. This can reduce end-of-project rework and help contractors reach their zero construction-punch goals.
How eSUB Software Can Help With Construction Punch Lists
eSUB is a cloud-based project management platform built especially for subcontractors. It seamlessly integrates with leading construction software systems so you can easily switch from your current RFI process to a cloud-based system to upgrade RFI process.
eSUB organizes all of your project information in one place, allows for smooth collaboration, and streamlines communication through its intuitive interface. It also works on your mobile, so you can track projects on the go—no matter where or when—and stay up-to-date.
