Completing Your Main Line Remodel: Substantial Completion, Punch List, and Warranty

Substantial Completion, Punch List,  and Warranty are phrases we use to define the stages of completion of a project. Substantial completion is when the space is fully functional, the trades have essentially completed their work and the homeowner can move into the space and start living in it. There may still be a few items that still need to be addressed, such as installing a light fixture that might be on back order, touching up a piece of trim, or straightening a crooked outlet cover. These are generally small items that do not impact use of the space. These items are performed during the Punch List part of the project. After the project is 100% complete and the items on the Punch List are all checked off, you might think you will never see us again. Although we love to hear from our customers down the road that everything is going perfectly, occasionally, something needs to be addressed. This is the Warranty stage which lasts five years. 

What exactly is substantial completion?

In a nutshell, the work is complete but not quite 100%. I know this might sound incongruous, but it’s when you can fully move into the space and expect not to be tripping over workers, tool boxes, tarps, and plastic sheeting. There will be a few items that get noticed only once you are in the space and able to really take a good look around without the daily buzz of saws and banging of hammers. That leads us to the second phase of completion. 

Why do we need a punch list?

It seems like it shouldn’t be necessary if everyone finishes the job they start! Since there are so many pieces to a large project, the trades people focus on the work at hand and sometimes don’t notice a little drop of paint, or a missing nail in a piece of trim because they are focused on the bigger picture. Once the dust settles and the distractions are gone, the homeowner might notice a few details needing attention.

We set up a meeting to walk through the project with the homeowner after they have lived in it for a little while and we create a list of things that need to be addressed. That list is the Punch List. Once complete, with the homeowner’s approval, we declare that we are 100% complete! 

What does the warranty cover?

Down the road, sometimes something breaks, comes loose, of just doesn’t function properly. That’s where the Warranty comes in handy. The warranty covers everything that we supply and install for 5 years. Even if a manufacturer’s warranty is only active for a year, our warranty extends that to 5 years. In some cases, the manufacturer’s warranty will exceed our own, such as with roofing shingles, siding, or windows.

Generally, we have very few warranty issues. In some cases, we have extended the warranty period beyond 5 years. For example, if we think something really should have lasted longer, but didn’t, we will probably take care of it. We would review such situations on a case by case basis. We stand behind our work and will always take care of our clients. We want to make sure that our work lasts as long as it should last, and we always err on the side of the customer. 

Warranty Exclusions

Our Warranty exclusions are written into every contract in plain English. Additionally, we take the time during the pre-construction meeting to ensure everything is clearly explained. Following are some of the exclusions. 

Pre-Existing Issues

If you have a pre-existing conditions, like work improper done by previous contractors, termite damage, or humidity problems, we cannot be expected to remedy those issues under our warranty. 

HVAC System Exclusion

If your project includes connection of an existing HVAC system to a new renovation or addition, we cannot guarantee adequacy of heating or cooling unless we install new equipment. Although we design the ducting to be suitable for your project, in some cases, additional work may be required to supplement the system. 

Humidity And Water Exclusion

If your home has an excess of humidity during any season or experiences water infiltration, this may cause damage to some materials. If this occurs, the damage will not be covered by our warranty. If you know of any existing humidity or water infiltration problems, let us know right away so that we may propose a solution. 

Painting Exclusion

If painting was excluded from your contract, any warranty work will also exclude the paint. If drywall repairs are required, for example, painting of the repaired area remains the responsibility of the owner. 

Normal Wear And Tear Exclusion

Normal wear and tear are excluded from the warranty. Examples of this might be scratched or stained surfaces, worn finishes, changes in color due to UV light exposure, or normal expansion and contraction of natural materials.

Do you have any questions about the finish and warranty process? Reach out today and schedule a conversation.