The punch list, also known as a snag list in the U.K., is a document showing work that still needs to be done on a construction project. Another fun fact and mini history lesson is that the term punch list comes from the antiquated process of actually punching holes in a list to mark which items needed fixing.
In regards to construction today, the Business Dictionary defines a punch list as, “Listing of items requiring immediate attention” and as a “Document listing work that does not conform to contract specifications, usually attached to the certificate of substantial completion. The contractor must correct the punch list work before receiving payment.”
Additionally, a punch list might include specifications on damages to other materials or items that occurred during construction and must now be fixed. It may also include incorrect installations or aspects of the building that currently do not function as promised. Typically, punch lists only include small fixes, because the majority of large issues have already been fixed or addressed previously through a change order. Nonetheless, however minor the changes are, it’s incredibly important to execute a construction punch list correctly to ensure your project has the finishing touches it needs to be considered complete.