Any new construction project is a complex and labor-intensive undertaking. As your project nears completion, you might be feeling worn out by all the details involved in the process — but don’t stop now! You need to ensure all the minor fixes that come with “new house construction near me” have been done prior to closing or you could have to deal with problems as soon as you move in, such as a leaky kitchen sink or a sticking window. This means you have to submit warranty requests and wait for repairs on top of getting settled into your new house. No fun.
Fortunately, a properly completed punch list can spare you these headaches and ensure you enjoy your new build from the moment you walk in the door.
What Is a Punch List?
When it comes to construction, the term “punch list” refers to a checklist of incomplete tasks to be finished by a contractor and related tradespeople to meet contract specifications. In the past, such to-do lists were written on paper. The person responsible would then use a hole puncher to punch a hole next to an item after it was completed, hence the name “punch list.” Today, these lists are often digital to make them easy to share among team members, but still just as necessary to track which tasks need to be completed and the estimated completion timeline.
During our construction process, there will be more than one punch list generated since a Gateway superintendent and project manager do a thorough inspection of each home prior to the final walk-through with the homeowner. Once all punch lists have been finished and both the contractor and the homeowner have signed off, the project is officially move-in ready!
How a Punch List Works
Punch lists are created near the end of a new construction project, after the structure, major systems and finishes have been installed. When you build a Gateway home, we will schedule a final walk-through a week or two before the closing date. In addition to learning about how your new home functions, this appointment gives you an opportunity to review all systems and features and determine if there are any items you want addressed.
During the final walk-through, examine the home closely. Turn switches and faucets on and off, open cabinet doors and drawers, and do any other checks to make sure things are working properly. Double-check that countertops, flooring, paint colors and any other customizations are correct.
Typically, a final punch list only includes small fixes, because larger issues will already have been addressed previously. Common punch list items include:
- Plumbing & electrical defects (like a leak or a switch not working)
- Drywall cracks, dings & flaws
- Paint touch-ups
- Missing or damaged hardware & trim
- Scratched flooring
- Incorrect installations
Prior to the closing date, the Gateway team and applicable subcontractors will work together to resolve punch list items and ensure all quality expectations are met.
Why a Punch List Matters
When you are purchasing a brand-new home, the punch list is a valuable tool to help you track what needs to be done and ensure that you are satisfied with the final product before you move in. From a homebuilder’s perspective, small things can easily be overlooked during the rush to get to the finish line of “new house construction near me.” The punch list keeps us focused on what needs to be completed, including smaller items, before the end of the build.
Searching for ‘New House Construction Near Me’?
At Gateway, we’re always striving to ensure any home construction project exceeds our client’s expectations. We carefully check our work and promptly address any corrections that need to be made. And in case something falls through the cracks during the punch list process, we have a full-time warranty manager available to help.
As the largest staffed home builder in southeast Wyoming, Gateway is ready to deliver your new home on time and on budget. To discuss your next project in Cheyenne, Casper or Laramie, contact our sales team at (307) 632-8950 or reach out online. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn to stay up on our latest news and listings!
