What Is a Punch List?
A punch list is a list of tasks which need to completed to satisfy the terms of a construction contract. Punch lists may be included in the contract itself, but more commonly, they are generated in the final phases of construction, as people walk around the site and note down any issues and deficiencies which need to be resolved. Punch lists are very useful for project management, whether people are dealing with a contractor or doing the work themselves, because it’s easy to miss small details which can be problematic later. The term “punch list” is a reference to the fact that people used to punch a hole in the paper next to tasks which had been completed. Today, punch lists may be managed as simple written checklists, or even in electronic form. Electronic punch lists are very convenient because they can be distributed to numerous people and updated instantly, allowing everyone to see progress. This can be especially important when multiple contractors need to address the same issue.
