5 Tips For An Efficient And Effective Punchlist Process

Is your project buildout nearing completion, and you are being asked to attend a punch list walkthrough?

1. Hire an owner's Rep project manager!

When you enlist the services of a good owner's rep, they will perform this step with or for you to ensure that you get what you've paid for and that all the minor to major issues are identified and quickly addressed by all of your contractors and consultants. We will also be able to help you understand if items were 'existing to remain' and, therefore, not the error of the GC to fix unless asked to do so for added time/materials costs to you. These added requests are often referred to as 'Day 2', which means a new work scope that was not part of the original work scope as defined at the outset.

2. Ask Questions!

While your owner's rep is there to lead the task, you should not be shy in asking about items on your mind. The only bad question is the one not asked.

3. Schedule more time than you think and be patient!

We encourage using software such as Plangrid or Procure to identify, document, photograph, and track all items that need to go on the list. This takes time to log the item properly, but your patience is rewarded in the organization and dissemination of the list once it is complete. It can be tedious, and there can be tension when a contractor does not agree that something needs to be corrected. Once the list is complete, provide a reasonable amount of time in which the contractor has to correct the issues identified. It takes time to schedule the subcontractors to come back.

4. Don't be afraid to be firm!

Use your architect, engineer, and owner's rep to fight most of your battles, but when the time comes, you'll know it – don't be afraid to get firm about something you are passionate about. Does the scuff of paint on the soffit irk you? Does the way the baseboards are wobbling bother you? Guess what; they always will unless you speak up and demand that the item be corrected to your satisfaction.

5. Be reasonable.

Unless the space you are punching out is meant to be an immaculate high-end showroom, residence, or a medical/scientific buildout where precision is mission-critical, be reasonable in your expectations. The goal is not going to be absolute PERFECTION unless that was the clear expectation set out from the project's very beginning. A large gap between the expectations and reality causes most of the friction during this process. Lean on your advisors to guide you on acceptable and truly sloppy or negligent work.