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What is a punch list?

A punch list records unfinished or corrective contract work near the end of a job, such as doors that need adjustment or appliance manuals still to be handed over. On projects using AIA G704-2017, it accompanies completion paperwork; ask for the attached list and an agreed period for finishing the corrections.

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What this means for your home project

  1. Compare each proposed item with the original or amended written scope; identify which contracted result still needs to be completed. Source: Connecticut Department of Housing, read 2026-11-04.
  2. Photograph each deficient item yourself and match the picture to its written list entry, so you can recognize it during follow-up. Source: LSU AgCenter, read 2026-11-04.
  3. For a Massachusetts housing project, request the joint inspection and its single agreed list; identify who will attend before the walk-through. Source: Massachusetts EOHLC, read 2026-11-04.
  4. For a Massachusetts housing project, ask the contractor to identify which subcontractors will receive the list for correction. Source: Massachusetts EOHLC, read 2026-11-04.
  5. If your project uses G704, request the agreed correction period and occupancy date in writing so the remaining-work schedule is explicit. Source: AIA Contract Documents, read 2026-11-04.
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Who will prepare the punch list?

For Massachusetts public housing work, preparation moves from the builder’s own corrections to a joint inspection; confirm whether your contract assigns the same roles. “After the Contractor and subcontractors prepare and correct their own punch list, the Contractor will request the Architect to do an inspection for Substantial Completion.” Source: Massachusetts EOHLC, read 2026-11-04. “All parties should be present for the scheduled inspection, so that the Architect prepares the one agreed-upon list.” Source: Massachusetts EOHLC, read 2026-11-04.

What should be on a punch list?

For a home walk-through, include door operation and appliance manuals from LSU’s checklist, then add the unfinished items your own inspection reveals. “Your project is unique, and you may not need all of these inspection items listed, but you may also have features to your house that are not covered here.” Source: LSU AgCenter, read 2026-11-04. “This list is a good starting point for adding to and removing finish-up items that your inspection reveals.” Source: LSU AgCenter, read 2026-11-04.

How should the punch list be handled?

For projects using the AIA standard G704-2017, ask for the attachment before accepting paperwork that records the remaining corrections. “AIA Document G704-2017 is a standard form for recording the date of substantial completion of the work or a designated portion thereof.” Source: AIA Contract Documents, read 2026-11-04. “If the architect finds that the work is substantially complete, the form is prepared for acceptance by the contractor and the owner, and the list of items to be completed or corrected is attached.” Source: AIA Contract Documents, read 2026-11-04.

Is a punch list the same as a change order?

When reviewing a Connecticut program rehabilitation job, compare every proposed correction with the signed scope before adding a newly requested feature. “Either way, the punch list will represent work yet to be done, not additional work over and above the original or amended contract.” Source: Connecticut Department of Housing, read 2026-11-04.

What if the contractor disagrees with an item on the punch list?

For a workmanship disagreement at home, ask the contractor which published criterion supports the disputed result before agreeing to close that item. “If you and your contractor disagree about an item on the punch list, a good reference guide to help with your negotiations is the Residential Construction Performance Guidelines , which can be purchased from the National Association of Homebuilders.” Source: LSU AgCenter, read 2026-11-04. “This manual stipulates criteria for judging workmanship.” Source: LSU AgCenter, read 2026-11-04. “It helps you and your contractor come to agreement about when flat is flat, when plumb is plumb and when finished is finished.” Source: LSU AgCenter, read 2026-11-04.

When should punch list work happen?

On a job using G704, schedule the remaining corrections within the period recorded in that form, alongside the planned occupancy arrangements. “In G704, the parties agree on the time allowed for completion or correction of outstanding items; the date when the owner will occupy the work or designated portion thereof; and a description of responsibilities for maintenance, heat, utilities, and insurance.” Source: AIA Contract Documents, read 2026-11-04. For Massachusetts public housing projects, the handbook says: “Paying close attention to detail during any project will help keep the punch list small and manageable.” Source: Massachusetts EOHLC, read 2026-11-04.

Sources

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