Tenant Improvement Punch List Template for Faster Closeouts
A tenant improvement punch list template with 55 inspection points for TI build-outs — partitions, ceilings, doors, MEP, and finishes. Free checklist.
Written by Luke Johns · August 28, 2026 · 13 min read
Tenant improvement projects run on tight schedules and tighter budgets — the tenant is paying rent the day the lease starts, and every day of closeout delay is a day of lost occupancy. A tenant improvement punch list that is specific, photo-backed, and dispatched fast is what gets you to certificate of occupancy and rent commencement on time. This template covers 55 inspection points for commercial TI build-outs, from partitions and ceilings through MEP, finishes, and closeout documentation.
Run the TI punch list with the tenant's representative and the landlord's PM if required by the lease. Log every item with a photo and a room or suite number, assign it to the responsible sub, and dispatch in writing the same day. TI closeouts slip when items are vague and unassigned — this template keeps both from happening.
Partitions & Framing
Partition walls plumb, straight, and in the correct location per plan
Wall types match the plan (STC-rated where required)
Demising walls and fire-rated assemblies correct and unpenetrated
Corner beads straight and undamaged
Drywall finish level matches spec (Level 4 or 5)
No screw pops, visible seams, or cracks under raking light
Acoustical sealant at partition top and bottom per STC assembly
Ceilings
Ceiling grid level and square within tolerance
Ceiling tiles seated fully — no gaps or lifted corners
Ceiling tiles cut clean at walls and penetrations
HVAC diffusers and returns aligned and flush with grid
Light fixtures seated flush and square in grid
Sprinkler heads centered and at correct height below grid
Speakers and sensors aligned with grid
No stained or damaged ceiling tiles
Doors, Frames & Hardware
All doors swing correctly per the door schedule
Doors plumb, square, and flush in frame
Door hardware correct per the hardware schedule
Closers adjusted — door does not slam or stay open
Locksets and access control functional
Panic hardware on egress doors functional and code-compliant
Door sweeps and seals installed and functional
Thresholds set level and sealed
No paint or drywall mud on hardware
MEP — Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing
HVAC balancing report complete and within design tolerances
All supply and return diffusers open and adjusted
Thermostats functional and labeled
All outlets, switches, and data ports functional and labeled
Panel schedule labeled and accurate
Lighting controls and dimming functional
Emergency lighting and exit signs functional and tested
Plumbing fixtures installed, sealed, and leak-free
Domestic hot water functional at all fixtures
Floor drains clear and trapped
Finishes — Flooring, Paint, Casework
Flooring (carpet tile, LVT, VCT, polished concrete) installed per spec
Flooring seams tight and pattern aligned
Base and transition strips installed clean
Paint complete — walls, ceilings, and doors per finish schedule
Certificate of Occupancy / Completion coordinated with AHJ
Tenant training on systems (HVAC, lighting, access) scheduled
Who should attend the tenant improvement punch walk?
The GC or PM, the tenant's representative, and — if the lease requires it — the landlord's PM. Walk suite by suite, log every item with a photo and a room number, and assign each to the responsible sub on the spot.
How is a TI punch list different from residential?
TI punch lists emphasize fire-rated assemblies, life safety, MEP balancing and labeling, ceiling grid alignment, and code compliance for certificate of occupancy. The scale is larger (multiple suites, shared systems) and the schedule pressure is higher because the tenant is paying rent.
What closeout documents does a TI project require?
As-built drawings, O&M manuals, warranties, the HVAC balancing report, fire alarm and sprinkler acceptance reports, the certificate of occupancy or completion, and the completed punch list record. Assemble these as the job progresses, not at the end.
How do I get to certificate of occupancy faster?
Resolve life-safety and code items first — fire-rated assemblies, egress, exit signs, sprinkler and alarm acceptance. Those are what the AHJ inspects. Dispatch them with the tightest due dates and verify completion before the inspection is scheduled.
Can I use this template for retail TI build-outs?
Yes. The partitions, ceilings, doors, MEP, finishes, and life-safety sections apply to retail. Add retail-specific checks for storefront, display lighting, POS/data rough-in, and health-department requirements if food service is involved.
Luke Johns spent a decade on job sites running punch lists, coordinating subcontractors, and closing out projects before building QuickPunch. Punch lists, subcontractor coordination, quality control, and project closeout across residential remodeling, production home building, and commercial multifamily construction. More about Luke Johns →
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Construction Checklist App — Turn daily, pre-drywall, finish, and final walkthroughs into photo-backed punch list items dispatched to the right trade.