A punch list is a record of all construction items within a project the builder/contractor must correct or complete to the satisfaction of the homeowner before the job is considered complete. You and your builder compile this list together during a walk-through of your nearly-completed home.

The builder or contractor must fix every item on the list to your satisfaction in order to have final approval on the house (this should be written into the contract you have with your builder) and receive final payment. 

Some items on the list might be simple fixes such as touching up paint, correcting badly-hung interior doors, or securing a rattling fan in the kitchen. Other items might be more serious and can affect the livability of the home, such as a gas leak, loose wiring, or poorly installed windows. 

The concept behind the punch list is to ensure your builder is aware of all fixes requiring correction. It’s a good idea to list the items in order of your importance or urgency. The least-important items at the bottom of the list may never get done, but it’s better to have hot water than scuff-free baseboards. A good builder will make sure that every item on the list is completed to your level of satisfaction.

Unfortunately your desire to get the items on the punch list complete may not match your builder’s schedule (or mood). Your builder wants to be finished with the project just as much as you want your house completed, so it’s important for both you and your builder to work out a schedule for completing the job. 

Some builders may not be as interested in finishing the punch list – they may lose interest in the job or may have already moved on to the next project. But good (and successful) builders understand that if you aren’t satisfied with the construction of your home, you won’t be a willing referral for additional projects. It could also be a matter of money. 

Withholding final payment can be a powerful incentive for builders to complete your punch list. But if you’ve already paid them in full, where’s the incentive for having them come back to complete the job? It would be truly unfortunate if a good home building project was soured by an incomplete punch list, but it happens. 

When you communicate well and work with your builder to get the punch list items fixed, you’ll finally be able to enjoy your happy home.


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