Before conducting your final punch list there are some guidelines that should be followed to ensure everything runs accordingly.  The first that should be completed is scheduling the Pre-Con meetings.  It should be documented when, where, what time and with whom the meeting will be taking place.  During the meeting, samples of acceptable quality of work throughout the life of the project should be presented to the General Contractor.  Local inspection procedures should be understood by everyone on the project.  There shouldn’t be any questions remaining about what can or cannot be done.  Lastly, material submittal and approval processes should be established immediately.  Once these preliminary steps have been administered the following four steps will assist you in improving your final punch.

1)   Set expectations and conduct routine inspections

There should always be a clear set of expectations before starting a project.  Guidelines and criteria should be set among all key players.  Detailed specifications and equipment manuals should be defined.  Most importantly, there should always be a current copy of the contract onsite at all times!

Some additional information that should be clearly defined are visualizing color materials board, well-defined readily available finishes, pictures/drawings, detailed specifications and equipments manual, and contractors and subs should visit other locations.

2)   Emphasize details

It is not only important to be clear about the major issues such as meetings, equipment, and contractors, but even the smallest details should be covered as well.  Don’t put aside even the most trivial tasks because they may play a major role in delaying your final punch list.  Even if the details require you to determine what brand of caulk to use….DO IT!

3)   Stay vigilant until the last punch list item is completed

As the finish line approaches, it becomes very appealing to rush through the project, but a nonchalant attitude could add weeks to your final punch. This would be the biggest mistake a construction manager could make.  It’s essential that the expected punch list timeframe is established.

4)   Establish a format and routine for the punch list

Having a standard, clear, and precise punch list form could save you countless time and money.  Everyone should follow the same format for all projects, and it should be clearly defined how often the punch list is performed.  Additionally, having an 8 ˝ x 11” floor plan to coincide with each item on the punch helps make the walk-through process run more efficiently.  For example, if item #1 on the right wall in the bathroom needs to be changed you aren’t leaving anything to chance.  There is a very low percentage that particular issue would be overlooked.