A construction snag list or also called a punch list is simply a list of items or snags that need to be completed because it doesn’t conform to the contract specification. This document is prepared near the completion of a construction project. A good punch list addresses all the issues that don’t conform to the agreed initial plans.
A snag list is typically a list of small defects that need fixing because any major defect would have already been addressed prior via a change order.
When a construction nears completion, the contractor will arrange for a walkthrough at the construction site with the owner or owner representative together with the architect and designer to look at the site to look at the things that don’t conform to specifications.
The construction snag list is considered done when a final inspection has been done, and if no additional work has cropped up, the owner signs off and closes the snag list.
At first glance, it seems simple enough –check the construction site, and make a list. But unfortunately, this process can drag out longer than it was first anticipated, not to mention that it can be a very stressful and grueling experience for the team in charge of it. But, technology in the form of a construction snag list software can help automate some of the repetitive tasks of a punch list so that you can pay more attention to the client.
There are many snag list apps in the market, and it comes in all permutations – home construction snag list software, construction sang list app for Android, construction snag list app for IOS, construction software with a snag list, the list goes on and on. But whichever software you choose, here are some features that you might want to keep in mind.
Features of A Good Snag List Software
Contents
1. K.I.S.S ( Keep it a Simple Software)
Although it might be tempting to choose an app with a lot of features, keep in mind that most of the time, you’ll only need 10% of your software’s functionalities. You’ll need an easy way to add an observation, with photos, room number and an indication on a PDF floor plan.
Fewer buttons and functionalities mean fewer risks for issues, frustrations, and misunderstandings, and it makes it easy for your team to learn it.
2. Offline Capabilities
You never know when you’ll encounter a dead spot ( a place where there is no signal) when you’re going on a punch list walkthrough. And, if you scoff and say that in today’s modern age, it doesn’t happen, trust me, it does. You’ll want a software that can still function even though its offline with a capability to upload whatever changes to the list when you get the signal back.
3. Cloud Storage
You want your software to have the ability to automatically back up your files in the cloud so you know that you’ll be able to access it easily, with no fear that it might get lost. You also want something that will allow multiple users to work on the same project.
4. It Should Have Basic Features
Yes, you want the software to be simple to use, but you also want these features listed below to be present.
- Add a list with text, photos, the person assigned and due date
- Generate a PDF report and observation lists
- Filter issues based on assignee, status, category
- Import/ export from other systems
- Ability to sign off the punch list or field report
- Draw on photos and PDF plans
- The auto numbering of items and reports
Benefits of Using a Snag List Software
So, now that you know which features to look for in a construction site punch list software, how can it benefit you and your organization? Here are a fee ways:
- It Reduces Errors and Centralizes Information
Making a list is easy, but creating a good list takes a lot of effort. Having a software to help you in creating a uniform list can make it easier for you to do so. If you are using a cloud-based software, your files are stored in the cloud, making it easier for all the people involved to access it.
A snag app also allows you to filter the list by status, as well a monitor due dates and send overdue email notices. This helps keep items from falling out of sight, and clearly note when the items due date have passed. This helps you be more efficient and systematic in dealing with the punch list.
- Mobility
Snag software and applications allow you to create and assign a snag list items directly from the field where most issues are likely to be found. In addition to this, snag software packages allow you to create a detailed snag list in real time, as well as the ability to let your client sign off on the completed snag list.
- It helps In Determining Schedule & Cost Impact
A good punch list app can help you determine schedule and cost impact within a snag list item. Team members can note whether an item will have an impact on the project schedule. And if it does delay it, then it can note how many days the project will be delayed as well as its cost impact.
- It Increases Coordination Among Team Members
Construction is all about teamwork – from the beginning until the end. Snag software allows coordinating the effort across everybody who is involved in closing out the snag list. Subcontractors who are in charge of making sure that the snag list will have the ability to update the snag list in real time, and list any problems if there are any, so the contractor can be aware of it, and take the necessary steps to resolve it.