When is a punch list typically prepared during a construction project?

A punch list is typically prepared at the end of construction, and it serves a critical function in the project delivery process. This document outlines any remaining tasks, repairs, or inspections that need to be completed before the project can be considered fully finished and acceptable for the owner.

The preparation of the punch list is usually conducted as part of the final inspection process, where the project manager, owner, and contractor review the work done against the original plans and specifications. Identifying outstanding work items at this stage helps ensure that the project meets quality standards and all contract requirements before it is handed over to the client.

Creating a punch list earlier in the project, such as at the beginning or during the planning phase, would not be feasible because the work necessary to identify defects or incomplete tasks has not yet been undertaken. Similarly, waiting until after the project is completed would not be practical, as the purpose of the punch list is to address deficiencies before final project acceptance. Thus, the timeline of preparing the punch list aligns perfectly with the concluding phases of the construction process.