Handling OSHA Punchlists and Walkarounds

How roofing contractors can manage punchlists and other requirements on the jobsite

By Art Aisner, Editor-in-Chief, Roofing Contractor, Trent Cotney

As one of the leading legal experts in roofing, Trent Cotney hears a lot of complaints. One that’s always been problematic, but is becoming one of the biggest headaches on the jobsite for roofing contractors today is punchlists.

When Clients Stall and OSHA Calls

The OSHA Walkaround Rule enacted during the Biden Administration faced major objections from some in the construction trades because it allowed third-party representatives to visually inspect jobsites, regardless of their profession -- or who they are.

“You’re about 95% complete, or you’re at a point when the owner can occupy the property and you start getting punchlist after punchlist,” Cotney, partner with Adams & Reese said in a recent videochat with W&C. “These constant corrective items or alleged corrective items are used as justifications to pay you.”

Learn ways to avoid that trap, and how get to protect yourself by watching the full conversation here.

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Art Aisner is Editor-in-Chief of Roofing Contractor and Roofing Supply Pro. He spent the bulk of his career as a multi-media journalist for newspapers and television stations before joining the RC team in 2015. He is the driving force behind the publication’s content development, editorial strategy and other initiatives that serve growing audiences in the roofing space.

Trent Cotney is a Partner with Adams & Reese and a Florida Bar Board Certified Construction Lawyer, licensed to practice in multiple states across the U.S. and in Canada. With nearly 25 years of experience, Trent has dedicated his career to serving the construction and roofing industries. He is a zealous advocate for the international commercial roofing sector and serves as general counsel for over 10 prominent trade associations and organizations, including the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA), National Slate Association, Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3), and Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA). Trent’s commitment to the industry extends beyond legal counsel; he is an active participant in education, advocacy, and innovation, working tirelessly to address the challenges contractors face and advance the industry as a whole. Known for his deep understanding of construction law and unwavering dedication, Trent Cotney remains a trusted advisor and leader in the roofing community.