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Punch Lists
by
Shawn Pace
July, 05, 2017
in
Working with Contractors
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What You Need to Know About Punch Lists
Punch lists are an integral part of the construction process. As the property owner, it’s crucial that you understand how punch lists work. The punch list identifies any issues requiring completion or correction. The list includes exactly who is responsible for the work, whether it’s an electrician, painter, carpenter or other subcontractor. Usually, contracts specify that a certain percentage of money is not paid to the contractor until the punch list is complete. That withheld money helps ensure the contractor will finish the project. The right punch list tool, such as Buildshop, makes the process much easier and more efficient.
Punch Lists
From the beginning to the end of the work, contractors are punching out projects as part of their job. They must ensure that all work is done to code. Much of the punch list consists of simple things, such as confirming staples and screws are in place and separated by the correct distances. When the project is completed, the contractor gives the property owner an opportunity to punch out the project, generally accompanying the owner on the walk-through. When doing a punch list, make sure you cover all items. Generally, you have only one opportunity to punch out, so make sure that work is complete. When you punch out, take a roll of colored tape - typically blue - and attach it to the item needing attention. Find out how long it should take before the issue is fixed. If there’s an emergency situation, such a water leak, get the plumber out immediately.
Wait Until Completion
As a rule of thumb, do not punch out a project before it is done. If a contractor requests you to punch out an item before completion, don’t do it unless it is extremely minor. It is standard for the owner to withhold at least twice the value of any incomplete punch list items when paying the retainage. That’s an incentive for the contractor to come back and fix the item. If you’ve punched out an item that wasn’t actually completed, you have no leverage over the contractor.
The Buildshop Punch List Tool
Take your iPad or tablet with you when inspecting the work and enter your punch list items in the Buildshop punch list tool. This way, you have a record of it and so does the contractor and subcontractors. Using this software helps organize the punch list by various categories, locations and/or subcontractors.
It’s important to punch out items the first time, because nothing upsets a contractor more than having to complete multiple punch lists. That’s especially true when the items should have been caught in the first punch out. However, there are problems that turn up after you have closed and moved into the home. These are usually minor issues not affecting your ability to stay in the house. Your builder may want a complete list within 90 or 180 days or prior to the first year of the homebuyer’s warranty. Contact the contractor, include the problem in the punch list tool, and find out when you may expect repair.