Professional Contractor Punch List Template | PDF

Contractor punch list template

Contractors can efficiently document and track outstanding tasks before project closeout with this template. It makes your final inspection process faster, which is critical for payment release and project handover. A study by Cornerstone Projects found that 91% of construction professionals who responded were involved in delayed projects in recent years, highlighting the industry-wide challenge of timely completion. Our contractor punch list template addresses this issue with specialized sections for task assignment, priority levels, and verification workflows.

Unlike our general construction or residential punch list templates, this contractor-focused version includes dedicated fields for subcontractor accountability, compliance documentation, and contractual reference points. When properly implemented, this template helps prevent the delays that have become all too common in today’s construction landscape.

Related categories

Preview of the template

Page 1

General Information

Project Name

Contractor Name

Date of Inspection

Exterior

Roof condition (leaks, missing/damaged shingles)

Exterior siding (cracks, peeling paint)

Windows (cracks, seals, operation)

Doors (hardware, weather stripping)

Gutters and downspouts (leaks, clogs)

Landscaping (grading, drainage, plants)

Interior

Walls (cracks, drywall damage)

Ceilings (stains, damage)

Floors (scratches, unevenness)

Doors (alignment, hardware)

Electrical (outlets, switches, lighting)

Plumbing (faucets, drains, fixtures)

Miscellaneous

Overall cleanliness

Permit and inspection approvals

Warranties and manuals provided

Comments or additional notes

Frequently asked questions

What causes most items to end up on a contractor punch list?

Most punch list items result from rushed work during the final stages of construction, miscommunication between teams, or unclear specifications in the original contract. Subcontractors juggling multiple projects often leave small details unfinished. Weather damage, material defects, and simple human error also contribute significantly to punch list items that delay final payment.

How can you prioritize items on your contractor punch list to finish faster?

Categorize items by trade and location first, then prioritize based on impact to occupancy permits and client satisfaction. Focus on items affecting building systems at the start, followed by safety concerns and visible cosmetic issues. Schedule trades efficiently to minimize return visits, and tackle quick wins early to build momentum and show progress to stakeholders.

Why do contractors struggle to close out punch lists on time?

Contractors struggle because they’ve often moved resources to new projects, making it difficult to pull workers back. Many also face subcontractor scheduling conflicts, material delays for replacements, and disputes over whether items are defects or design issues. The financial pressure of having retention held also creates stress that can impair efficient problem-solving.

What’s the difference between a contractor punch list and a snag list?

Both identify incomplete or defective work, but a contractor punch list is more formal and comprehensive. It acts as a contractual document that affects final payment in the US construction industry. A snag list is more common in UK and European markets. It often refers to a preliminary inspection list that may be addressed before the official punch list process begins.

This template, developed by Lumiform employees, serves as a starting point for businesses using the Lumiform platform and is intended as a hypothetical example only. It does not replace professional advice. Companies should consult qualified professionals to assess the suitability and legality of using this template in their specific workplace or jurisdiction. Lumiform is not liable for any errors or omissions in this template or for any actions taken based on its content.