Punch List Template: Free New Home Snagging Checklist

A punch list, or snag list, is the list of defects you check before you accept a new or renovated home. Check every room for walls, paint, floors, doors, windows, electrics and plumbing, mark what needs fixing, add a note and send the list to your builder.

How to use the punch list

  1. Set the rooms Use the rooms of your plan or add them one by one.
  2. Walk through and mark For every line: OK, to fix (with a note) or fixed.
  3. Send and follow up Print or share the list with your builder and mark items as they are fixed.

Whole house

  • Builder's materials and rubbish removed
  • Home and garden left clean

Living room

  • Walls and ceilings smooth, no cracks
  • Paint even, no marks or drips
  • Floor level, no gaps, chips or squeaks
  • Doors open, close and lock smoothly
  • Windows open, close and seal; glass unscratched
  • Sockets, switches and lights work
  • Heating or air conditioning works

Kitchen

  • Walls and ceilings smooth, no cracks
  • Paint even, no marks or drips
  • Floor level, no gaps, chips or squeaks
  • Doors open, close and lock smoothly
  • Windows open, close and seal; glass unscratched
  • Sockets, switches and lights work
  • Heating or air conditioning works
  • Tiles even, grout and sealant complete
  • Sink, taps, shower and toilet fixed and working
  • No leaks; water drains away
  • Extractor fan works
  • Cabinets and worktops level, doors aligned

Bedroom

  • Walls and ceilings smooth, no cracks
  • Paint even, no marks or drips
  • Floor level, no gaps, chips or squeaks
  • Doors open, close and lock smoothly
  • Windows open, close and seal; glass unscratched
  • Sockets, switches and lights work
  • Heating or air conditioning works

Bathroom

  • Walls and ceilings smooth, no cracks
  • Paint even, no marks or drips
  • Floor level, no gaps, chips or squeaks
  • Doors open, close and lock smoothly
  • Windows open, close and seal; glass unscratched
  • Sockets, switches and lights work
  • Heating or air conditioning works
  • Tiles even, grout and sealant complete
  • Sink, taps, shower and toilet fixed and working
  • No leaks; water drains away
  • Extractor fan works

Outside

  • Outside walls and paint finished
  • Fences and gates secure
  • Paths and drive even, no puddles
  • Gutters and drains clear and connected
  • Roof covering complete
  • Roof space or loft insulated and dry

Check items based on LABC Warranty: LABC Warranty

Questions about the punch list

What is a punch list in construction?

The list of defects and unfinished work found when you inspect a new or renovated home before handover. The builder fixes each item before the final payment.

When should I do the snagging inspection?

Before you accept the house and before the last payment, and again before the defects period ends.

What should a snag list include?

Every room: walls, paint, floors, doors, windows, electrics and heating, plus tiles, fixtures and leaks in kitchens and bathrooms; outside: walls, fences, paths, gutters and the roof. This list follows LABC Warranty.

Next step

A checklist to help you inspect, not a professional survey.