Complete Your Bathroom Remodel Punch List
The punch list is your last line of defense before signing off on your bathroom remodel. This critical walkthrough ensures every detail meets your expectations and the contractor fulfills their obligations. A thorough punch list protects your investment and guarantees the quality finish you deserve.
Quick Summary
Time needed
1-3 days
Difficulty
Easy (attention to detail)
Cost
Included in contract
Why a Punch List Matters
After weeks of construction, you might be tempted to rush through the final stages. But the punch list is where quality control happens. It's the difference between a good remodel and a great one.
Quality Assurance
Catch imperfections while the contractor is still on the job. Once they leave, getting them back for minor fixes becomes exponentially harder.
Payment Leverage
Your final payment is tied to punch list completion. This is your strongest leverage to ensure all work is done correctly.
Documentation
A written punch list creates a clear record of agreed-upon corrections, protecting both you and the contractor.
Attention to Detail
Small imperfections that seem minor now will bother you every day once you start using the bathroom. Address them now.
What Is a Punch List?
A punch list (also called a "snag list" or "deficiency list") is a document created during the final stages of a construction project. It itemizes all the small tasks, corrections, and touch-ups that need to be completed before the project is officially finished.
Origin of the Term
The term "punch list" comes from the old practice of punching a hole next to each item on the list as it was completed. Today, it's simply a checklist of items that need attention before final payment is released.
How to Conduct a Thorough Walkthrough
1. Schedule at the Right Time
Choose a time when natural light is at its best (late morning to early afternoon). Bring a strong flashlight for inspecting corners, under cabinets, and behind fixtures. Allow at least 1-2 hours for a thorough inspection.
2. Go Room by Room, Surface by Surface
Start at one corner and work systematically around the bathroom. Examine every surface from multiple angles. Get close to check details, then step back to see the overall effect.
3. Test Every Function
Turn on every faucet, flush the toilet multiple times, operate the shower, open and close every cabinet and drawer, test every light switch and outlet. Don't assume anything works just because it's installed.
4. Use Your Hands
Run your hands along surfaces to feel for rough spots, bumps, or debris under paint. Check that fixtures are secure by gently pulling and pushing. Feel countertops for uneven seams.
5. Bring Reference Materials
Have your contract, plans, and any change orders on hand. Reference the original specifications if something seems different from what was agreed upon.
Common Punch List Items
These are the most frequently found issues during bathroom remodel punch list walkthroughs. Use this as a guide for what to look for.
Paint Touch-Ups
- Missed spots on walls and ceiling
- Drips or runs on trim and baseboards
- Paint on fixtures, hardware, or tile
- Color inconsistencies or visible brush strokes
- Touch-up needed around outlet and switch plates
Caulk & Sealant
- Gaps in shower/tub caulk lines
- Incomplete caulk around vanity and countertop
- Uneven or messy caulk application
- Missing caulk at wall/floor transitions
- Caulk that has shrunk or cracked during curing
Grout Repairs
- Missing grout in corners or edges
- Color variations in grout lines
- Cracked or crumbling grout sections
- Grout haze remaining on tile surfaces
- Pinholes or voids in grout lines
Hardware & Fixtures
- Loose towel bars or toilet paper holders
- Crooked or unleveled mirrors
- Scratched or damaged fixture finishes
- Faucet handles not aligned properly
- Showerhead or handheld not secure
Doors & Drawers
- Cabinet doors not closing properly
- Drawer slides sticking or misaligned
- Medicine cabinet door adjustment needed
- Soft-close hinges not functioning
- Gaps between doors or uneven reveals
Final Cleaning
- Construction dust in corners and crevices
- Adhesive residue on surfaces
- Fingerprints on fixtures and glass
- Protective film left on appliances
- Debris in drains or P-traps
How to Document Issues
Clear documentation protects both you and the contractor. It eliminates disputes about what needs to be fixed and provides a record of completion.
Photo Documentation
- Take a wide shot showing location in the room
- Take a close-up showing the specific issue
- Use good lighting (flashlight if needed)
- Use a coin or ruler for scale when helpful
- Label photos with numbers matching your list
Written List Format
- Number each item for easy reference
- Include specific location (e.g., "left wall, 3ft from door")
- Describe the issue clearly and objectively
- Reference photo numbers when applicable
- Leave space for sign-off when completed
Pro Tip: Use Blue Painter's Tape
Place small pieces of blue painter's tape next to each issue as you find it. This makes it easy for the contractor to quickly locate each item during the walkthrough and serves as a visual checklist during corrections.
Working with Contractors on Corrections
A professional contractor expects a punch list and welcomes the opportunity to address issues. Approach this process collaboratively, not adversarially.
Walk Through Together
Review each item with your contractor present. This ensures you both agree on what needs to be fixed and how. Some items may have explanations you weren't aware of.
Prioritize Items
Not all punch list items are equal. Safety issues and functional problems should be addressed first. Cosmetic issues can follow. Agree on the order of completion.
Set a Completion Deadline
Agree on a specific date for all corrections to be completed. For most punch lists, 1-2 weeks is reasonable. Put this in writing and both parties should sign.
Maintain Professionalism
Stay factual and objective. Focus on the work, not the person. A collaborative approach yields better results than an adversarial one.
Final Sign-Off Process
The final sign-off marks the official completion of your bathroom remodel. Take this step seriously as it affects your legal rights and warranty coverage.
Before You Sign Off:
Payment Milestone Tied to Punch List
Most well-structured contracts tie a portion of the final payment to punch list completion. This is standard practice and protects your interests.
Typical Payment Structure
Important Note
Never make final payment until the punch list is 100% complete to your satisfaction. Once you pay in full, your leverage to get corrections made decreases significantly. This is your contractual right and is expected by professional contractors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a punch list in a bathroom remodel?
A punch list is a document created near the end of a construction project that lists minor tasks, corrections, and touch-ups that need to be completed before the project is considered finished. It typically includes items like paint touch-ups, caulk repairs, hardware adjustments, and any work that doesn't meet the agreed-upon standards.
When should I do the punch list walkthrough?
Schedule your punch list walkthrough after all major work is complete but before making the final payment. Choose a time with good natural lighting (ideally midday), and allow at least 1-2 hours for a thorough inspection. Bring a flashlight to check corners and under cabinets.
How long should contractors take to complete punch list items?
Most punch list items should be completed within 1-2 weeks of the walkthrough. Simple touch-ups may be done immediately, while items requiring materials or scheduling (like replacement hardware) may take longer. Agree on a specific timeline before proceeding.
Should I withhold payment until the punch list is complete?
Yes, it's standard practice to withhold a portion of the final payment (typically 5-10%) until all punch list items are satisfactorily completed. This provides incentive for timely completion and ensures you have leverage if issues arise.
What if the contractor refuses to fix punch list items?
First, reference your contract's warranty and completion clauses. Document all communication in writing. If the contractor is unresponsive, you may need to withhold final payment, file a complaint with your state licensing board, or pursue mediation. Having detailed photos and documentation is crucial.
Punch List Walkthrough Checklist
Use this comprehensive checklist during your walkthrough to ensure you don't miss anything.
Walls & Ceiling
Tile Work
Shower/Tub
Vanity
Toilet
Electrical
Plumbing
Accessories
Ready for the Next Step?
Once your punch list is complete and signed off, it's time to capture your beautiful new bathroom with professional after photos.
Related Guides
Bathroom Remodel Checklist
The complete step-by-step checklist for your bathroom remodel.
Payment Milestones
How to structure contractor payments to protect your investment.
Review Your Contract
Understanding warranty clauses and completion requirements.
Take After Photos
Document your transformation with professional-quality photos.