Residential Construction Punchlist Template
For: GCs, project managers, owner reps, home buyers, building inspectors
A residential punchlist is the make-or-break document between "substantial completion" and "owner takes possession." This template covers the items that typically appear: exterior envelope, interior finishes, MEP, appliances, and the small stuff that delays signing. Use it during your final walkthrough and during the 30/60/90-day post-occupancy check-ins.
References: AIA G704 · NAHB Quality Standards · Local building codes
Want to do this on your phone — offline, with photos per item, exported as a PDF in 90 seconds?
Use OnsiteAudit — runs offline, captures photo evidence per item, exports a sharable PDF.
Exterior
Siding/cladding flush, no gaps, fasteners flush
Caulk continuous at penetrations, windows, doors, transitions
Paint coverage uniform, no holidays, edges cut clean
Gutters and downspouts secured, sloped, drain away from foundation
Grading slopes ≥6 in over 10 ft away from foundation
Driveway and walks no cracks >1/4 in or settlement
Fence/gates plumb, latch and lock function
Interior — Finishes
Walls free of dings, drywall seams flat, no popped nails/screws
Paint touch-up consistent with primary color, no flashing
Trim and base mitred tight, no gaps at corners or floor
Floors level — no squeaks, no gaps at thresholds
Tile grout consistent, no cracks, sealed at wet locations
Cabinet doors aligned, soft-close functional, drawers operate
Countertops sealed, no chips at sinks/cooktops, brackets hidden
Closet shelving level, supports adequate for load
Doors & Windows
All doors swing freely, latch without forcing, no rubbing
Door hardware tight, lock cylinders work, keys provided
Window operation smooth, locks engage, screens fit
Weatherstripping continuous at all exterior openings
MEP & Appliances
Every electrical outlet works (test with circuit tester)
GFCI test buttons trip and reset on every protected receptacle
Light switches operate intended fixtures (label any wrong-switch)
HVAC delivers heating AND cooling at every register
Thermostat reads accurately, scheduling functional
Hot water at every fixture within 30 sec, temp ≤120°F at fixture
IRC P2723
Faucets no drip, no slow-drain, hot/cold reversed nowhere
Toilets flush, refill, no run-on, no leaks at base/supply
Smoke detectors test (each one), CO detectors test, batteries fresh
Range hood vents to exterior, fan operates
Dishwasher and washer hoses no leaks, drains free
Refrigerator ice maker connected, water line no leak
Documentation Handoff
All warranties (HVAC, appliances, roofing, windows) collected and dated
Operating manuals organized in one binder
Subcontractor contact list with phone + email
Final occupancy permit posted/filed
As-built drawings + electrical panel schedule provided
Paint color codes, flooring SKUs, tile lot numbers documented
Run this on your phone
Run this checklist on every site, capture defect photos inline, generate a sharable report at the truck. All offline.