A punch list is an accounting of incomplete or poorly executed items on a construction project. Near the end of a construction project, the architect or engineer draws up a list of items that must be completed before he gives the contractor payment in full. A punch list gets its name from the early practice of punching a hole in the margin of the paper next to each item on the punch list document as it is completed. Two copies of the punch list were placed atop each other and punched at the same time, rendering a record for both the architect and the contractor. Punch list is primarily an American term, sometimes the hyphenated punch-list is found.
Examples
A decision was made after a closed door meeting last month to apply for the retainage and hold it until punch list items — includding the painting of a North Street hydrant, fitting for a leaking hot water sink at the water treatment plant and inspection of a new tank — were completed. (The Hornell Evening Tribune)
When Missouri’s General Assembly returns Tuesday from its annual spring break, members have a punch list of work to complete in the seven weeks left in the session. (The St. Louis Business Journal)
The new borough police station received a Certificate of Occupancy Monday pending completion of a post construction punch list, said Bill Hilburt, a borough council member. (The Wilkes-Barre Times-Leader)
“The village has issued a temporary occupancy permit for the facility and a final occupancy will be issued once a few punch-list items have been completed on the two buildings, but overall everything is moving forward,” said Kevin Timony, assistant to the village manager. (The Daily Herald)