Why it is important for a contractor to have a punch list

A general contractor in Florida, main contractor or prime contractor is responsible for the day-to-day oversight of a construction site, management of vendors and trades, and the communication of information to all involved parties throughout the course of a building project. When you are considering building a home, remodeling, or spruces up your current business you will need to hire a general contractor to take care of the project for you. The best part of hiring a contractor is they will be dealing with all the supplies and talking to other vendors for the needs your project could possibly need. In this article we will discuss why it is helpful for a general contractor to have a punch list when working a job. This may not seem like a big deal but it definitely helps with staying on schedule and on task. Most contractors are working several different big jobs at one time, so it is good practice for them to do this so they do not end up getting behind on their jobs.

A construction punch list is a list of items that must be completed before a construction project is declared complete and subcontractors can receive final payment. A punch list—also referred to as a snag list, a deficiency list, or a punch-out list—is created near the end of a project. Most often, the items are minor issues, like scratches and markings on walls and floors from construction, but it may also include items that were done incorrectly and require rework. Punch lists may even include brand new items that were not included in the original project specifications. Some things that you should look to have on your while doing general contractor list are as follows:

• Appliances are fully functioning.
• Cabinet drawers and doors open and close without problems
• No hardware is missing and works smoothly
• Windows and doors open and lock without problems
• Lights and outlets are fully functioning
• Paint and texture problems
• Items that you will need for the project
• Individual task of other vendors and cost
• Time frame estimates
• Scheduled appointments for the project

How To ensure a Punch List is completed:

1. Be present near the end of the project. Inspect the work. Ask questions.
2. Consult. Have an eye for detail. Be prepared and helpful.
3. Get it done. Follow-up. Communicate changes in scope.
4. Design Intent. Confirm what was built.

Since no building project will ever be perfect, contractors may make a distinction between reasonable flaws (minor, insignificant flaws that still meet contract specifications) and unreasonable flaws (errors that must be fixed). A punch list identifies unreasonable flaws for correction. This is a sure set way to stay on track to be prepared as a general contractor should any issues happen to arise. Obviously, it’s crucial that the punch lists report is crystal clear (to avoid misunderstanding), well structured, and legally binding. An “11 Month Punch List” would be recommended toward the completion of your first year in the home. If there are any failures of systems during the first year, a call in to the builder (or contractor on the builder’s list) is important at the first sign of an issue. When you are about to close out your construction project as a general contractor in Florida you need to do so by doing the following:

1. Collect Necessary Documents.
2. Review Change Orders and Modifications.
3. Ensure Order Specifications Are Met.
4. Present to the Client.
5. Address All Client Feedback.
6. Close Any Open Contracts
7. Gather Project Takeaways for Future Learning.

Taylor Builders is a full-scale General Contractor servicing the Tri-County area of South Florida and beyond providing ground up construction and addition services. If you are in the Florida area or surrounding areas. Contact Taylor Builders FL today for you construction project needs. They are reliable  and get the job done to your satisfaction.