5 Free Templates for Builder Checklists

5 Free Templates for Builder Checklists

Posted on June 30, 2021July 28, 2025 by April Jones

5 Free Templates for Builder Checklists

Inspections | Business Operations | Forms

What is a construction checklist?

A construction checklist is a simple project management tool used to help contractors keep track of a list of items that need to be completed or inspected as part of a job or work order. Building construction includes many different types of jobs to be completed throughout the project lifecycle, so companies will typically have many types of standard checklists to use for a given job.

How do you create a construction checklist?

The most basic construction checklist can be created using a paper form. Excel checklists are also commonly used to create templates for building construction. Excel checklist templates are technically free to download, however, this form of recording data is not always in the best interest of a construction company.

For example, if you are a medium or large business with a distributed workforce, keeping track of Excel spreadsheets or dealing with manual data entry from paper forms can be a drain on company resources. The hidden costs of Excel templates and paper forms include:

Redundant and time-consuming work
Lost data and rework
Lost revenue and productivity
Decrease in employee satisfaction

A better way to create construction checklists is to use mobile apps and forms designed to increase productivity and streamline business operations.

Why every builder needs digital tools for construction

Construction work requires a great deal of paperwork to start and finish projects. Instead of relying on paper forms, construction companies have started to use digital building construction forms that eliminate manual work.

These building and construction apps can be accessed by desktop and mobile devices, making them ideal for workers who want to use them at work sites without an internet connection. Form fields are completed using an app and PDF reports are automatically generated to be stored in the cloud and shared with anyone that needs to access the information.

Builders can create checklists and other types of forms to digitize all of the critical information that is created and stored as part of a project. Builders and contractors need digital tools for construction to create a competitive advantage, increase their productivity, and lower their costs by embracing simple technology designed for the jobsite.

5 Free Templates for Builder Checklists

GoCanvas is a trusted provider of mobile apps and forms for the construction industry. Using our no-code platform for mobile apps, contractors and builders can quickly digitize their paper forms without help from IT. The GoCanvas App Store has over 20,000 templates that can easily be customized to fit your business needs. Simply search the app store for building construction templates or follow the links below to some of our top checklist forms used by builders.

Project Startup Checklist Template

The project startup checklist is a project management app to make sure that all pre-construction services are checked before work begins. The construction project plan app covers everything from defining the scope of work at the job site, to developing the construction project plan and timeline.

You can also customize the construction requirements checklist for your business needs to ensure that every step of your process is included. Once completed, the general contractor, management, and other stakeholders can sign off on the project requirements electronically to ensure that all quality standards are met.

Project Closeout Checklist Template

The project closeout checklist app is designed to help with quality assurance, project closeout forms, and the entire contract closeout process. The app helps with inspecting completed work and getting the appropriate signoff from the contracting officer, design, and construction teams.

Use this app to ensure that all details are covered when handing off project work for quality assurance purposes and that requirements from the general contractor and project managers have been met.

Work Site Inspection Checklist Template

Routine occupational safety inspections are required at all job sites. The work site inspection app ensures that your work areas are meeting necessary safety requirements and safety training is completed prior to work.

This safety report app reviews personal protective gear, employee fall protection, and other safety standards for the job site. Use this app to help ensure that your company is meeting employee safety standards and that all construction work is performed in a safe work environment.

New Home Construction Checklist Template

The new home construction checklist is designed to ensure that homes are move-in ready. The app also generates an electronic version of the report that can be accessed and shared online.

Designed for use throughout the building process, the app covers both indoor and outdoor items in a new home, including inspecting the hot water heater, garage door, air conditioning unit, and plumbing fixtures. The customizable app for house building also helps ensure that building codes are followed and that the building project is completed according to the original house plans.

Simple Construction Task List Template

The construction task list app helps managers and construction contractors keep their tasks organized each day. Add notes about the construction process, manage schedule milestones, and more using the digital task list. This app helps ensure that construction contractors are all on the same page when it comes to timeline management and the work schedule, giving management transparency into the status of the project. Reports are saved electronically and can be easily shared with the general contractor, construction manager, and others on the construction team.

About GoCanvas

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

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The Ultimate Guide to Quality Control Inspections

Managing a construction project is a complex and stressful process. Among other things, you have to coordinate project team members, materials, and equipment and ensure that contractors are not afflicted by the potential risks and hazards present at the construction site. That said, quality means different things to different people which is why you should…

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Constructions Digital Transformation

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See how VIP Lighting optimized efficiency with GoCanvas

VIP Lighting is a retail lighting and electrical maintenance business that services over 10,000 retail locations all over Australia and New Zealand. Before GoCanvas, VIP Lighting had two separate systems that were impossible to integrate, leading to inefficiencies. GoCanvas made it easy to integrate their systems into single, centralized platform…

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Business Operations | Reporting

A Complete Guide to Construction Daily Reports [+Templates]

Posted on June 23, 2021March 13, 2026 by April Jones

A Complete Guide to Construction Daily Reports [+Templates]

What’s a construction daily report?

A construction daily report or daily log is a document that includes all of the details and events of a single day working on a construction project. Site managers or contractors fill out and file these reports to keep an up-to-date record of the relevant project information. The reports typically include things like a list of crew members, material and equipment usage, incidents, job progress, and more.

What’s the purpose of a construction daily report?

The purpose of construction daily reports and logs is to provide a detailed description of an ongoing construction project. The daily report includes anything that the stakeholders, investors, project owners, and contractors need to know about that project.

These reports are useful for keeping everyone on the same page. They help to make sure that everyone is aware of any potential delays and that they are getting updates on the progress that is being made toward project completion.

Given how essential these documents are to the project’s success, it’s important that your construction daily reports and logs are accurate and thorough. That’s why we’ve created a complete guide to writing construction daily reports. Continue reading this article for everything you need to know about creating and filing your documents.

How to write a construction daily report

Here are four basic steps to follow when writing your construction daily reports:

Step 1: Create a cover page

The very first step in creating a construction daily report is drafting the cover page. A cover page provides basic information about the project, including the project name, the date, the location of the job site, and your name. The report’s cover page lets you and your client know at first glance what’s inside.

Step 2: Record details of crew and job site

The majority of a construction daily log will include essential information and even minute details about the project. Recording these details of your project will be the most involved step in creating your daily report.

Make sure to complete the report in a timely manner and don’t wait until the end of the workday to try and complete the entire daily report. You should add information to your report every hour or so throughout the day, or any time a significant event occurs.

Timely recording can also reduce the chance that you’ll forget important details about the project that day. Consider leveraging technology like construction project management software that can streamline the process and simplify your workflow for creating reports.

Step 3: Sign and date

Don’t forget to sign and date your construction daily reports, as this makes them official. Once work at the job site is finished, you should set aside some dedicated time to review your completed report to look for any mistakes and review the progress your team made.

When you’re satisfied with your report, sign, and date it. Making this part of your routine helps you ensure that the daily report is accurate and completed at the end of every day.

Step 4: File the report

Once you’ve reviewed and signed your construction daily report, be sure to promptly send it to your client. Construction software apps for daily reports can streamline the process for sending these documents to your clients. Apps can enable you to create your reports digitally and send them instantly to your client or other team members in real-time.

10 things you need to document on your construction daily reports

Construction daily reports provide the most accurate picture of what goes on at the job site. That’s why it’s important to include as many details as possible when creating your report. Here are ten must-have sections to include in your construction daily reports and logs:

1. Job details

The first section should include specific details about the job or project, including things like the job name, the job type, and the job number.

You should also include a brief description of the phase the job is in. For example, you should note if the workday included demolition, groundbreaking, framing, and so on.

2. Crew list

It’s best to record all crew members present at the job site. This information helps you cover your bases in case questions arise concerning attendance or payroll.

A crew list also helps promote safety in your work environment. Knowing who is on the site will help you ensure you’ve got enough workers to complete daily tasks and that no one is being stretched beyond their limits to work safely.

3. Weather conditions

Your documentation should include the weather report for that day, including things like temperature, wind speeds, and any precipitation.

Bad weather can bring your workday (and sometimes your work week) to a grinding halt, so it’s important to note the conditions of each day so you can record delays that are caused by the weather.

4. Work accomplished

In this section, detail project completions and progress that occurred. Make sure to record individual tasks and what took place to move them forward, as well as include the job’s progress as a whole.

Some days, you might have to note that no progress was made or that you’re experiencing delays because of material or staff issues. Even if the project doesn’t see forward progress, document what’s been done and the overall status of the job.

5. Site visitors

Sometimes you might have visitors to the construction site. These visitors could include investors, reporters, company leadership, and even family.

Any time someone other than your crew enters the work site, you should record it in your daily report. This helps you stay compliant and provide accurate paperwork should an accident occur on-site.

6. Equipment on site

All heavy machinery on a worksite must be accounted for. You’ll need to include the equipment present and how many hours each machine was used.

Even if a piece of machinery wasn’t used that day, note that it was parked at the site. This documentation provides information that can be used to maintain the equipment and ensure that every piece is where it should be.

7. Material quantities

A daily construction report also helps you keep track of the amount of materials available each day, as well as the quantity of those materials used.

This data gives you a clear picture of how much progress a crew makes each day. It also helps you to plan new orders by knowing what you begin and end each day with for materials.

8. Material deliveries

Material deliveries go hand-in-hand with material quantities. Knowing how many and which building materials arrived on-site ensures that your company receives the shipments they’re paying for.

You should make a note if a shipment doesn’t arrive as scheduled. If your crew is delayed in completing tasks due to a lack of materials, you will then have a record of the missed delivery and show that you’re not at fault.

9. Potential delaying events

A late material delivery can cause severe delays at your work site. But that’s not the only reason for slowed or even halted progress.

Your daily construction report needs to include any event that caused a delay or could potentially cause a delay. These events could be things like a significant crew absence, weather, or malfunctioning equipment, for example.

10. Incidents and accidents

Safety is the number one goal for all contractors. But when incidents occur, you are required to report them.

Your daily reports should note both significant incidents, as well as any near misses that occur. In addition to your daily report, you are also required to formally file a separate incident report.

Consider using incident report apps that can help with the process and provide templates to use when incidents happen for creating the reports and sharing them with all the appropriate parties.

How to use reports to improve your services

Construction daily reports offer more than just a record of what occurred on a work site. When utilized correctly, they can also serve as tools to help you improve your services. Here are three ways your daily logs can improve your team’s productivity and quality:

1. Increase efficiency

Construction daily reports are more than just progress notes for the client. You can also gauge the efficiency of your entire operation by reviewing and analyzing the data on your reports.

Mobile apps can help to create your reports and then the data is available so you can see the full picture of your team’s progress and if they are completing tasks to your standards.

2. Save money

Every company wants to save money, without cutting any corners. Your daily reports provide valuable data about money spent on materials, employees, and more.

Data from your reports can help you to discover patterns and trends. It can help to understand when and why a job is being delayed. By analyzing this information, you can discover patterns in spending, and where budgets can be restructured to save both time and money.

Digitizing your daily reports through mobile apps can help to ensure that you’re collecting the right information and the data is easily accessible in the form of analytics that provides useful insights for your operations team.

3. Streamline workflows

Daily logs detail everything that happens on a job site and they can help you see what you’re doing well and what can be improved.

Digitizing this information and making it more accessible will enable your team to find better, faster, and even safer ways to complete your projects.

When you complete your reports on an app, the reports can instantly be sent to the office, clients, and other team members who need access in real-time. This helps to streamline workflows, save time for your employees, and improve the processes that are in place for sharing and communicating documentation for your business.

Optimize your daily reports with digital processes

Construction daily reports contain essential information for documenting the progress and status of your projects. Consider implementing simple mobile apps for contractors that can help you to easily capture the details of a day on your site with digital documentation.

Your peers in the construction industry have found that these tools give them a competitive advantage, increase productivity, and eliminate much of the time spent on paperwork and other manual tasks.

All of this can lead to greater profitability for your business, projects completed on schedule, and increased satisfaction and retention of your workers with modern processes in place to help them succeed.

Why you should use construction daily log apps

Many contractors and construction firms are moving their daily logs to the digital format using mobile apps to record daily logs and create PDF reports. This technology works well for the construction industry because it provides mobility and ease of use for many people to enter the required information into mobile forms.

Once the information is collected, it’s instantly shared as a formatted report and the data can be used for reporting and analytics purposes. The end result is a more efficient way to collect information in the field and greater visibility into operations.

This saves valuable time by reducing manual paperwork and outdated processes and it gives the business insights needed to make decisions that help the business operate in smarter ways.

Free Examples and Templates

General Construction Daily Log

The construction daily log makes it simple to keep track of a daily report of work performed and noteworthy updates that occur daily on a job site. The mobile app can be completed using a tablet or a phone to ensure that all of the important data from the field is captured and shared back with the office.

The mobile app can also be used as a time-tracking tool, helping to eliminate paperwork for managers on-site. The daily log is designed for documenting all employee’s activities so that management can monitor productivity in real-time to avoid potential delays.

How it works:

Capture images of work completed
Add details about potential safety hazards and other daily work details
A digital report is automatically generated and sent to the construction manager, general contractor, and safety managers.
Customize the app to add specific inspections or other required documentation that is required for your job site.

example of a construction daily report template

Subcontractor Daily Logs

Looking for a specific template to use based on the type of subcontractor work? Follow the links below to find additional examples and templates by use case.

Carpenter Daily Log
Cleaning Crew Daily Log
Drywall Daily Log
Electrical Daily Log
Fire Sprinkler Installer Daily Log
Heavy Equipment Operator Daily Log
HVAC Daily Log
Mold Remediation Daily Log
Painting Daily Log
Plumbing Daily Log
Roofing Daily Log

Frequently asked questions

What is a construction daily report and why is it important? +

A construction daily report is a document that captures the details and events of each day on a construction site. It is typically filled out by site managers or contractors and includes information such as crew members present, material and equipment usage, incidents, and job progress. This report serves as an up-to-date record of the project’s status.

The importance of construction daily reports lies in their ability to keep all stakeholders informed about the project’s progress. They help ensure everyone is aware of any potential delays and provide updates on the work being done. Accurate and thorough reports are crucial for the project’s success, making it essential to document all relevant information daily.

How can I create a construction daily report? +

Creating a construction daily report involves several steps. First, draft a cover page with basic project information like the project name, date, location, and your name. Then, throughout the day, record details about the crew, job site activities, and any significant events. It’s important to update the report regularly to capture accurate information.

After documenting the day’s activities, review the report for completeness and accuracy. Finally, sign and date the report to make it official, and file it promptly. Using construction management software can streamline this process, allowing you to create and share reports digitally with clients and team members.

What should be included in a construction daily report? +

A construction daily report should include several key sections to provide a comprehensive overview of the day’s activities. These sections typically cover job details, crew lists, weather conditions, work accomplished, site visitors, equipment usage, material quantities, material deliveries, potential delaying events, and any incidents or accidents.

Including these details ensures that the report accurately reflects the day’s progress and any challenges faced. This information is valuable for keeping all parties informed and can help identify areas for improvement in project management and execution.

What are the benefits of using digital tools for construction daily reports? +

Digital tools offer numerous benefits for creating construction daily reports. They provide mobility and ease of use, allowing information to be entered directly into mobile forms on-site. This reduces the need for manual paperwork and ensures that data is collected efficiently and accurately.

Once data is entered, digital tools can automatically generate formatted reports that can be shared instantly with stakeholders. This improves visibility into operations and allows for real-time monitoring of project progress. Digital tools often include analytics capabilities, providing valuable insights for decision-making and improving project management.

What are some common challenges in maintaining construction daily reports? +

Maintaining construction daily reports can be challenging due to the need for consistent and accurate data entry. One common challenge is ensuring that all relevant information is recorded in a timely manner. Delays in documentation can lead to incomplete reports and missed details.

Another challenge is managing the volume of data generated daily, particularly on large projects. This can be mitigated by using digital tools that automate data collection and report generation. These tools help streamline the process, making it easier to maintain comprehensive and accurate daily reports.

About GoCanvas

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

Check out even more resources

Connect with an Expert Today.

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9 Examples of Construction Forms for Contractors [+ Templates]

Posted on June 15, 2021July 28, 2025 by April Jones

9 Examples of Construction Forms for Contractors [+ Templates]

Business Operations | Forms | Inspections

The construction industry uses forms to collect and share information at every stage of a project. Traditionally on paper, these forms are now being converted into digital forms that enable workers to share information via mobile devices and tablets on the job. There are many benefits of moving to a digital form rather than paper:

Reduction in manual work and costs
Greater business insights
Data loss prevention
Lowered risk and liability
Better client and employee experience

Bringing construction forms online is one step in digitization for construction firms and contractors, bringing information online into a secure cloud location for real-time and accessible data to use in reporting.

What are the top forms used by construction firms and contractors?

As a leading provider of mobile forms for the construction industry, GoCanvas has seen many different types of forms created using our no-code platform to launch apps and forms in the field. All of this can be done without advanced technical knowledge and our platform is highly customizable to meet all of the construction industry’s needs for mobile forms.

This blog article compiles the 9 common types of forms that are used by contractors to streamline their workflows and create business efficiencies. Continue reading for a summary of how these forms are used and follow the links in this article to dive into our free templates and examples.

#1 Inspection Forms

Construction companies are required to perform routine inspections for many different purposes. The construction inspection form is a template with all of the fields that need to be filled out by an inspector. Common inspection forms include:

Safety inspections
Building inspections
Machinery or equipment inspections
Vehicle inspections
OSHA inspections

The common workflow for companies is to dispatch jobs to workers to perform the inspection, collect required signatures on the job, and automatically generate a report that is sent after the inspection is completed.

Find Inspection forms and templates here on the GoCanvas App Store.

#2 Construction Checklist Forms

Often included with inspection forms, construction checklists are very widely used in the construction industry. A simple construction checklist provides employees with a common template that is used to ensure the proper items are all being covered. Digital forms provide the added benefit that required fields can be used to make sure that information is completed, cutting down on the need for re-work and mistakes. The digital construction checklist can also have dynamic fields, meaning that certain form fields can be added or removed depending on the responses. This helps save time for workers by reducing the number of form fields to be only what is required for that specific job.

Find Checklist forms and templates here on the GoCanvas App Store.

#3 Work Order Forms

Work order forms are widely used in the construction industry to help automatically dispatch workers to perform a job or task. Using digital forms for work orders, contractors can streamline the process and eliminate manual work. Using work order templates and forms, contractors can complete work orders offline and have them sync back to the cloud once internet service is available. Using digital forms allows workers in the field to take advantage of automatic calculations for things like labor and material costs and it enables digital signatures and automatic reports to be generated. If change orders are required, all of this can be done from the same platform and brings greater efficiency and visibility into job operations in the field and on job sites.

Find Work Order forms and templates here on the GoCanvas App Store.

#4 Construction Timesheet Apps

Contractors are using construction project management apps to track employee hours worked. Having this information online allows for more efficient operations, with the ability to integrate with payroll and HR applications that your business already uses. Construction timesheet apps make it easy for workers to fill out their timesheets from anywhere using a mobile device to complete the form. Construction timesheet apps have other advanced features like GPS monitoring to automatically track arrival and departure times from a jobsite or to create a record that the work was performed at the correct location.

Find Construction timesheet forms and templates here on the GoCanvas App Store.

#5 Safety Forms

Safety is a top priority in the construction industry and there are many types of safety forms that are used to help track and manage these safety programs. Some common examples include:

Digital toolbox talks to ensure workers engage with safety programs and management can track compliance across job sites.
Forms to complete job safety analysis
Digital copies of safety data sheets
Incident and accident reports and other forms to ensure compliance with OSHA

Safety forms allow companies to track and report in real-time on the progress of their safety programs, giving safety managers the opportunity to understand trends and take the appropriate next steps. This helps to reduce a company’s risk and liability, leading to greater workplace safety and productivity.

Find Safety forms and templates here on the GoCanvas App Store.

#6 Construction Daily Reports

Construction daily reports are essential for capturing the progress and details of a project. Digital forms are used by construction companies to digitize their logs and give managers the ability to capture all of the required information through a mobile device for the construction daily report. Mobile logs help with project management, helping to eliminate paperwork and other manual tasks for workers. For complex projects, digital logs can help to keep projects on schedule and provide greater transparency into your operations for all stakeholders that need this information. Simply log all of the details from a job site and mobile apps help to digitize this information for reporting purposes.

Find Log forms and templates here on the GoCanvas App Store.

#7 Estimate Forms

Digital forms are useful for contractors that need to provide estimates on the job. Using a mobile phone or tablet contractors can generate estimates in the field and have the information digitized for records. Most commonly, contractors use estimate forms to help them calculate the exact pricing for materials, parts, and labor costs using data that is stored in the mobile application. All of this information is updated in real-time with the latest pricing information, helping to ensure that estimates are accurate for clients. With digital signatures, clients can sign off and reports can be generated to document the entire process for your business.

Find Estimate forms and templates here on the GoCanvas App Store.

#8 Invoice Forms

Similar to the use case for creating an estimate and work orders, digital forms can also be used when your business needs to generate an invoice for a customer. Once the work has been completed, an invoice can be generated using mobile forms and apps for contractors. This digital experience allows you to manage the entire process from a mobile device. Integrated with payment processing via services like Square or Stripe, mobile forms provide an easy way to generate invoices and collect payment from the field.

Find Log forms and templates here on the GoCanvas App Store.

#9 Contract Forms

Contracts are widely used in the construction industry as legal forms to document an agreement between the contractor and client. Instead of managing this process using paper forms that can be easily lost or damaged, companies are switching to digital forms for contracts and proposals.

Contract forms can be customized to include all of the relevant information, including client project needs, budget information, solution details, and project timeline. Make changes in real-time as the project progresses and collect signatures to track updated agreements.

Find Contract forms and templates here on the GoCanvas App Store.

About GoCanvas

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

Check out even more resources

The Ultimate Guide to Quality Control Inspections

Constructions Digital Transformation

See how VIP Lighting optimized efficiency with GoCanvas

Connect with an Expert Today.

We’ll help you put together the right solution for your needs.

Free Material Schedule Template for Construction

Posted on June 13, 2021July 28, 2025 by April Jones

Free Material Schedule Template for Construction

Business Operations | Forms

What is a material schedule in construction?

The material schedule in construction is a document that lists all of the building materials that are required to complete the project. Material schedules are often organized based on the category for the building, with different schedules for each component. The material schedule often will include additional information such as the quantity, description, unit price, total price, and other relevant information related to the building materials.

How to prepare a material schedule in construction

For complex construction projects, there are enterprise software solutions that allow you to create a material schedule. But if you don’t have a large IT budget for technology, there are many low-cost alternatives for preparing a material schedule in construction that can help with project management. One such option to consider is using the GoCanvas material schedule template that can be built using our no-code platform for mobile forms and apps.

Why you should avoid Excel templates for a material schedule

Excel templates are available for material schedules, but this is not always the best option for businesses today. Excel is a powerful tool for analysis, but not always the right tool for every job. Some of the pitfalls of Excel templates include:

Human error. Information can be overwritten by mistake and it becomes hard to recognize these errors when dealing with larger volumes of data.
Incorrect calculations. It can be difficult to perform calculations in Excel and a formula error can lead to incorrect pricing calculations that are hard to notice.
Lost data. If documents are stored locally on your PC, it’s always possible that the document gets inadvertently lost or destroyed before you can save it.
Data is not dynamic. Most of the time in Excel the information being input is updated at a given point in time. Should prices change, the data has to be manually updated, and this can be time-consuming to keep up with.

Your contracting business can’t afford to waste time or lose money – Excel templates can become a hidden cost and drain on your business. That’s why contractors are turning to mobile apps and forms that create business efficiencies and cost savings.

Top Reasons to use GoCanvas for Material Schedule Templates

GoCanvas templates are simple for anyone to use. Using our drag and drop editor, you can create digital documents that can be used for all types of construction forms.

Instead of using paper sheets, Google Sheets, or Excel, you can convert these documents into digital forms and apps that elevate your business operations. This can be material schedules, work orders, contracts, safety reports, and any other important documents your business uses throughout all phases of a project. Some of the top reasons to use GoCanvas templates include:

Secure, cloud-based data. Ensure best practices are met for data collection, using secure mobile forms and apps that digitize key business information. Ensure material schedules are accessible by anyone that needs them in real-time.
Integrations with other apps. Once your information is digitized, you can enrich this information with data from any other cloud-based apps your business already uses. Dynamically populate pricing information in real-time to ensure the material schedule created always has the current numbers.
Automatic report generation and sharing. Generate reports, gather signatures, and share documents automatically via PDF templates for material schedules.

Customizable form fields. Customize the form fields based on your unique business needs and do it all without any coding required. Create separate material schedules for different projects or customize the type of information that is included.
Embracing mobile technology. With mobile apps and forms, you can keep track of material design and parts shipments no matter where you are. Work offline from any remote location and have any information sync back to the cloud once you are able to access the internet again.

Going digital with GoCanvas can save your construction business time and money, increase productivity, and create a competitive advantage.

Download the free material schedule template

When it comes to construction management and placing purchase orders, it can be difficult for builders to stay on top of everything that a construction project and building contract require. Use this template provided by GoCanvas to help with scheduling construction projects and tracking building materials. GoCanvas customers have found that by going digital they can save time and lower costs with apps designed for the construction industry. Management can use this app to ensure the appropriate material resources are tracked and available. The app is designed to be a planning tool to ensure the complete delivery of your construction project to your client on time through proper site preparation.

Get started with this template or simply request a demo to see how it can work for your business.

About GoCanvas

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

Check out even more resources

The Ultimate Guide to Quality Control Inspections

Constructions Digital Transformation

See how VIP Lighting optimized efficiency with GoCanvas

Connect with an Expert Today.

We’ll help you put together the right solution for your needs.

The Ultimate Guide to Construction Contracts [Examples + Templates]

Posted on June 10, 2021July 28, 2025 by April Jones

The Ultimate Guide to Construction Contracts [Examples + Templates]

Business Operations | Forms | Project Management

No contractor and no client should begin a substantial construction project without a contract. What does “substantial” mean, here? First, that the complexity and duration of the project leave room for disagreements about the scope of the work. Second, that the amount of money involved for both the contractor and the client warrant legal protection.

The essence of a construction contract is often described as the contractor and client “being on the same page” about the project. That means the scope of work, timetable, payment, payment schedule, quality of work, penalties for late completion or late payment, and emergency situations.

Creating a contract with a client, and getting approval, take time. But it is safe to say no time is ever better spent on a construction project. What follows is a description of what a construction contract should include, why different types of contracts fit different projects, and some required details for any contract.

What is a construction contract?

A construction contract, of course, is a legal document. It can be enforced in a court. It outlines the scope of a project, the agreed-upon payment, and how to handle unexpected developments. Because the contract states objectively what both parties agree on, it represents a layer of protection as important to the contractor as to the client. Every contractor has run into a demand for work, without additional payment, that was not included in the original plan and run into arguments about the schedule of payments.

A contract has two great virtues:

It enables the work to begin with the client and contractor “on the same page” about what has been agreed.
It defines the legal recourse of each party if during the project they are not on the same page.

Types of construction contracts

There is no single type of contract for all construction projects. For example, a contract for a residential client will look different from a contract for a commercial client. But for any client, there are contracts with different structures that largely depend upon now payment is calculated. Here are the four most common:

Lump sum/fixed price: The client asks “How much will it cost?” and wants a single figure or lump sum for the entire project. This provides the client with an assured expenditure they are ready to accept; it provides the contractor with an incentive to get the project done fast, done right. But contracts allow for contingencies. What if the contractor finishes before or after the completion date? Is there an incentive for the former and a penalty for the latter? The contract should specify that.

Cost plus: This means that the client agrees to pay all costs of the project and, on top of that, a fixed amount or percentage of cost for the contractor’s profit. Often, this is viewed as full protection for the contractor, but it also can produce a project cost that does not include a contractor’s “just cover myself for any problems” boost in the fixed price.

Time and materials: In this type of contract, payment is tied to an hourly or daily rate charged by the contractor and actual costs for materials. But consistent with the principle of a contract, clients pay additional, unexpected costs that arise during the project. One may be the contractor’s overhead or the contractor’s markup on materials the contractor obtains.

Unit pricing: Unit pricing contracts view the project in terms of measurable units—the type of task or its scope or work and the materials required.

The construction contract that is best for you, for the type of project, and for your client, depends largely upon how the contractor and the client want to structure payment.

The essentials for your construction contract

Any type of construction contract for your project will have certain key elements:

Identifying/Contact Information

Who is entering into this agreement?

For the client, that means a name (or business name), phone number, email address, and the specific location of the property where the construction project will be taking place.

For the contractor, that means a name, business name, phone number, email address, company address, and any relevant license and insurance information.

A title for the project with its description

Your contract both names the project–“Two-Car Garage with Second Story Studio”–and describes the scope of the work. The scope of work could be a description, with dimensions and other specifications. But a blueprint or other plan could be attached to the contract to pin down the scope of work. In that case, the attachment would be signed, as well, by the contractor and the client.

What is essential is the size, components of the project, and materials to be used. Again, that may require blueprints and other attachments.

Any required licenses and permits for the project must be specified.

Projected Timeline and Completion Date

Of the essence, in any project, is the expected time to completion. Make sure to include the starting date (when the contract goes into effect) and the projected completion date.

You should be clear about what happens if you cannot complete the project by the specified completion date. That means at least that you, as the contractor, inform the client and give a new projected completion date.

Cost Estimate and Payment Schedule

In any type of construction contract, you will want to include your cost estimate and the schedule of payments for the project. Of course, before reaching the contract stage, the client will want an estimate. If that is agreed, then it can be included in the contract.

No project ought to begin before payment of a non-refundable deposit.

The additional required payment should be tied to milestones in completion of the project.

And, lastly, the contract should include late fees to protect you, as the contractor, so that late payment of what is owed includes, for example, an interest rate to be paid on the balance due.

Stop Work Clause and Stop Payment Clause

Because the contract requires you, as the contractor, to complete the work on a given schedule, you will need a clause that gives you the legal right to stop the work if the client fails to pay. At the same time, the clause will have to give the client the right to withhold payment if the project milestones are not reached on schedule.

Act of God Clause

Naturally, you will not “re-invent” the language of a contract. You will rely on one of the many templates available, now in digital form. Your construction contract template will include language that you need for protection against the unexpected. In other words, how will the work continue in circumstances beyond your control?

Such a clause outlines how you and the client will proceed if faced with a hurricane, earthquake, or drastic shortage of a given material. To some extent, this will depend upon your location and the possible exigencies. The standard language, or boilerplate, in most construction contract templates should cover this.

Change Order Agreement

As projects proceed, ideas may change. Your client may want to make some changes or additions. This means enlarging the essential “scope of work” of the project. That, in turn, means changing certain elements of the contract. The contract must specify how that will be done. A “change order” agreement makes such changes in scope, and, of course, payment, easier to handle.

Warranty

A client entering into a contract will need to know that you stand behind the quality of your work and will be responsible for correcting problems. A warranty clause addresses this issue by guaranteeing that for a certain period of time, you will correct any problems. Typically, the warranty period is one year. Contractors who do quality work will gain from offering this warranty, which addresses many vague client concerns and gets the project going.

Dated Signature from Both Parties

Your contract with the client becomes official, legally binding, when both of you have signed and dated the contract.

Your contract in today’s digital era

You will want to choose a high-quality, flexible “template”–or standard form–for your construction contract app. This gives you a contract expressed in precise legal language into which to insert all the required specifications of your project.

You can download, print, and fill-in such a construction contract template, but, today, construction contracts, like so much business, are digital documents filled out via mobile forms and apps. They are readily adaptable to the specifics of your construction project and easily shared with your client for alterations.

Going digital helps to avoid the hassles of lost or misplaced paper contracts, and your digital version is saved automatically. For definite legal agreement, you have authorized digital signatures.

For the construction contract of any type that you need, your first step can be GoCanvas, where the forms you need at any step in the contractor-client relationship are available, can be modified, or can be created from scratch to suit your distinctive needs. Follow the links below to learn how GoCanvas can reduce your paperwork and make all your business documents more professional.

Construction Contract Templates and Examples

Prime Construction Contract

With the Prime Construction Contract app, general contractors, project managers and others in the construction industry have access to electronic versions of all building contracts in one location. Add details about the prime construction contract directly into the form, including design and construction planning costs, bid details, dispute resolution information, payment requirements, the scope of work, and more. All parties can sign off on the agreement once all requirements have been reviewed.

Cost Plus Fixed Fee Contract

The cost plus fixed fee contract app can be customized by the project owner or contractor, making it easy to manage all types of work and price details. Construction managers and general contractors can edit the total cost, manage the contractor price and add in their cost plus fixed fee details for the scope of work. Once the cost-plus fee contract has been completed, both parties can sign off on the details electronically.

Project Management Contract

Just about every element of a successful project in construction involves a project manager coordinating the various change orders and working directly with the general contractor to keep project team members on track with the work.

This construction project management app makes it easy to track all of the important construction contract details, including project owner contact information, general contractor name, pre-construction outline, task list, project milestones, and more.

Time & Materials Contract

Similar to cost-plus contracts in construction projects, the time and materials contract template includes cost estimates and markup in the hourly labor rate in the Overhead and Profit section. In construction projects, it’s critical to stay on top of the details to ensure that projects stay within the scope of work, and in case there are questions down the road about the contract document and terms, the general contractor or the construction services provider.

Cost-Plus Percentage Contract

Under a cost-plus construction contract, the client agrees to reimburse the contractor for the direct cost of the work, plus a percentage of all costs incurred, to cover overhead and profit. Unlike a fixed-price contract, cost-plus contracts guarantee the contractor a fair return, while allowing for various changes in the scope of work. As a construction manager, use this form to efficiently establish cost-plus pricing for long-term contracts with multiple change orders. With this design-build contract type for an agreement, use this app to best assess the estimated cost or fee according to a percentage of completion.

Looking for something different?

We have hundreds of pre-built forms with a variety of features to fit all of your business needs. Discover more inspections in our Application Store.

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Simple Guide to Electrical Inspection Checklists

Posted on June 5, 2021July 28, 2025 by April Jones

Simple Guide to Electrical Inspection Checklists

Inspections | Field Operations | Job Safety Analysis

A checklist is essential for keeping everything organized. It’s a useful tool for task management, project management, and workflow optimization. Investing in checklist apps can be a game-changer for enhancing your productivity. Thanks to advancements in technology, you can today leverage mobile devices (Apple/iOS or Android devices) with customizable checklists for specific purposes, such as an electrical inspection checklist.

An electrical inspection checklist app allows you to start from templates and customize them to suit your needs. You can input due dates, automate tasks, create subtasks, collaborate with co-workers, and take advantage of other advanced features.

What is the purpose of an electrical inspection checklist?

An electrical inspection checklist serves numerous purposes. When buying a new home, you must ensure that the electrical wiring is not faulty or dangerous. An electrical inspection checklist can help you verify the safety of the electrical installation. A licensed electrician can use an inspection checklist to verify the health of the electrical wiring. If you did major home renovations with the potential to change the configuration of your electrical components, it’s vital to have an electrical inspection done. The same applies if you’re adding a new home appliance or replacing an existing one.

Additionally, periodic electrical inspections of an older house ensure that the electrical system is functioning properly. Homes built before 1940 may have outdated lighting technologies, such as knob-and-tube lighting. By conducting an electrical inspection, you can know whether or not to replace obsolete fixtures and whether they are working as they should.

Benefits of electrical inspections

Having an electrical inspection saves you money by reducing electricity bills each month. Through an electrical inspection, your electrician can easily tell if your current electrical system is inefficient. This is particularly true for older houses with knob-and-tube wiring. Upgrading your electrical wiring will not only cut your monthly electricity spending but also help reduce your carbon footprint.

Other benefits of conducting an electrical inspection include:

1. Avert potential hazards

The primary purpose of an electrical code is to ensure safety. Having a licensed electrician inspect your home’s wiring helps prevent hazards such as electrical fires. It also ensures that your home’s electrical wiring is functioning correctly. It’s a reassurance that no mistakes were made during the installation, preventing future mishaps due to faults with your electrical system. System malfunctions and fires are the most common threats posed by faulty electrical components.

2. Compliance with electrical codes

Electrical inspections ensure that your house is not in violation of any federal or local electrical codes. Most local electrical codes follow the National Electrical Code (NEC) implemented by the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA). When national and local codes conflict, the local code typically takes precedent over the federal code. A local electrician should be well-versed with your local electrical codes and should be able to tell whether or not your home’s electrical system is violating any local or national code.

Who uses an electrical inspection checklist?

Electrical inspectors, property managers, and property owners can use an electrical inspection checklist to execute electrical system inspections for residential or commercial properties. The key purpose of the checklist is to ensure that the electrical system complies with NEC electrical safety guidelines. It also helps identify any electrical hazards such as electrical fires. Besides, you can use the checklist to check whether the equipment is in correct condition and working as it should.

What is checked during an electrical inspection?

An electrical inspection checklist includes the items that ensure your home or workplace adheres to National Electrical Code electrical safety standards. It’s a guidance document that helps in conducting electrical safety inspections for any property. The NFA 70 or NEC is a standard for the safe installation of any electrical wiring or equipment in the U.S. It’s published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). During an electrical inspection, the following parameters of your electrical wiring are checked:

1. Electrical meter

During an inspection, your electric meter will be checked for possible defects. Other than ensuring the electrical meter is logging the correct wattage, your electrician will also check if the meter is installed properly or if its mechanisms have become defective over time due to wear and tear. Your electrician will also look out for rust and other signs of water damage. If there is a leakage, water can easily seep from the meter through to the main electric panel.

2. Check the circuit breaker capacity

Another critical step during an electrical inspection is to check whether or not the circuit breaker is working as designed. Your electrician will also check if the circuit is at risk of overload, an integral consideration for electrical safety. Electricians primarily inspect if the circuit breaker can maintain electrical currents at safe levels. Additionally, they can determine if there is any water damage, corrosion, or structural and mechanical issues that might trigger sparks or fires.

3. Inspect electrical wires for damage or fraying

Electrical wires that are fraying, dangling from walls or ceiling, popping out of their protective coating, or exposed to damp or wet areas can pose hazards. Your electrician should look out for such issues and make the necessary adjustments. They should not leave any space unexamined but check all wires encased in plain sight and those looped through tight nooks and crannies. Where wiring could become unsafe, the electrician should recommend the right fixes.

4. Ensure that GFCI outlets are wired correctly

Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) are electrical devices installed on power outlets to cut appliances off from the power supply whenever there are irregularities. These irregularities may include water or moisture infiltrating the outlet or strange objects other than plugs. Overall, GFCIs are essential to home safety. Your electrician will double-check that these devices are in correct working order.

Software and forms for electrical inspection checklists

An electrical inspection checklist app or software simplifies the whole process of electrical inspections. It enables electricians to quickly and efficiently conduct routine electrical inspections using mobile devices rather than regular pen and paper. You can use the app to take pictures that are automatically linked to the inspection record to document all system issues and share the results in real-time.

Check out GoCanvas’s free templates for electrical inspections. Schedule time with one of our product experts to see what GoCanvas can do for your business.

About GoCanvas

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

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Business Operations | Field Operations

Job Card Apps – Examples & Templates

Posted on May 25, 2021October 7, 2025 by April Jones

Job Card Apps – Examples & Templates

What is a job card?

Job cards are used to record all of the pertinent information that workers need to know about a job or task to be performed as part of a work order. Many industries leverage job cards, including construction and contractors, manufacturing, engineering, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and other similar types of field service organizations.

What should a job card include?

Job cards should include any of the necessary information that will be needed to complete the job assigned. Typically, this would include:

Client information and project-specific details
Scope of work and what is being done
Form fields to note the time, materials, stock, and total cost of work
Signature lines to be signed by worker and project manager or client
Relevant images and additional notes

All of the fields on a job card will be custom to the work being performed and the job at hand. While these have historically been managed using paper forms for job cards, more companies are switching to apps for job cards to digitize their workflows.

Why use an app for job cards?

Construction Management Software for job cards are gaining popularity with businesses because they can be completed via a mobile device or tablet from anywhere. Instantly having all of the information digitized is a time-saver for teams and businesses benefit from eliminating paper forms. Some of the main drawbacks of using paper forms include:

Incomplete or illegible data
Lost or misplaced documents
Inefficient workflows that require manual work

Mobile apps are designed to simplify the process for everyone involved. Job card apps can be customized to include all of the key details, form fields, and automatic calculations for time and material costs, digital signatures, and image capture for additional context. All of the information is created as a report or PDF and sent automatically to anyone that needs the information.

Seamless process for job management

Beyond just the basic use case for a job card app, many companies also benefit from integrated job card apps with other business processes related to the job card app. App platforms today are designed to automate work and fit into many of the workflows that happen on a job site or out in the field.

This means that apps for job cards can be one part of the entire process for job management. You may also want to design the app platform to have other components like quotes, contracts, work orders, dispatching systems, invoicing, and payment processing.

Modern app platforms like GoCanvas can enable your business to streamline how this work gets done, with a completely seamless process for handling all of these different components from start to finish. Using our no-code platform for apps, companies are able to digitize their operations and enable employees on job sites and in the field to easily enter data using their mobile devices.

These tools are designed to be simple, giving businesses of all sizes the ability to embrace digital technologies to save time, reduce risk, and create a competitive advantage for the business. Learn more about how it works by visiting our website, or you can get started for free using one of our job card templates listed in the next section.

Getting started with one of our templates, you will see how easy it is to build and customize apps for job cards and many other key business processes.

Job Card App Examples and Templates

Material and Labor Job Card Mobile App

The material and labor job card app is used to record all of the materials used for a project. The app also has a worksheet for recording all the labor work used for the same project. The material section covers both the acquired materials at the course of the project and the offcuts which were left out after the project.

Subcontractor Job Card Mobile App

This subcontractor job card app is used to collect all the relevant information required by the general contractor for an ongoing contract or job. This includes project requirements, the scope of work. estimated cost, estimated completion date, risk analysis, and more. Once the contractor requirements form is complete, the job card sheet is stored for your records and can be edited as needed. This makes it easy for general contractors to maintain current records for construction projects and all other jobs that require the help of subcontractor employees.

Engineering Job Card: Service Installation Mobile App

The engineering job card app enables the professional engineer to record excavation and reinstatement information. This mobile application can be modified to meet your customer expectations, including preventative maintenance and quality assurance.

Looking for something different?

We have hundreds of pre-built forms with a variety of features to fit all of your business needs. Discover more inspections in our Application Store.

Frequently asked job card app questions

How do job card apps benefit businesses? +

Job card apps help businesses automate job tracking and cut errors. Workers update job details in real time, and managers can monitor progress as it happens. This improves efficiency, strengthens communication, and removes paperwork. In fields like construction and field services, these apps also streamline invoicing, time tracking, and reporting. GoCanvas offers a job card app that helps teams save time, reduce mistakes, and keep more accurate job records.

What is the best job card template for a workshop? +

The best workshop job card template includes the job title, a clear task description, a list of materials or tools used, labor hours, and costs. It should also include worker details and a space for supervisor approval. Many workshops need to capture inventory or machinery usage and maintenance notes, depending on the work. GoCanvas provides a flexible workshop job card template so teams can track details in real time and improve operations.

What industries use job card templates? +

Job card templates are common in construction, field services, HVAC, plumbing, and maintenance. These industries use job cards to record work details like labor, materials, and time on task. In construction, a card may outline project phases. In HVAC, it tracks installs and repairs. GoCanvas supports these teams with digital job cards that automate tracking, reduce errors, and provide real-time updates for smoother project management.

Can job cards be used for maintenance tracking? +

Yes. Job cards work well for maintenance tracking. They record tasks performed, parts replaced, labor hours, and service dates on equipment, machines, or facilities. This creates a clear record, helps teams follow schedules, and keeps nothing from being missed. GoCanvas offers customizable digital job cards so maintenance teams can track work accurately and access records quickly.

What is the difference between a job card and a work card? +

A job card tracks the details of a specific job, including the description, materials, and time spent. A work card focuses on labor hours and productivity during the job. In short, job cards cover the job and materials, while work cards emphasize worker time and performance. GoCanvas lets businesses use both in one system to improve job management and efficiency.

About GoCanvas

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

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Business Operations | Compliance and Safety

3 Reasons to Invest in Safety Apps for Construction

Posted on May 23, 2021July 28, 2025 by April Jones

3 Reasons to Invest in Safety Apps for Construction

Safety programs managed on paper are difficult to track. That’s why construction companies are going digital with their safety programs to gain more visibility into safety and track compliance. With digital training or toolbox talks, employees have an easier time accessing information through mobile devices. A digital record is created for documentation purposes within a safety meeting app.

Beyond safety meetings, apps for contractors can act as a comprehensive safety management solution. With robust reporting that’s visible in real-time, organizations can address potential hazards and limit OSHA violations and fines.

This article covers some of the top reasons why construction companies and contractors are moving away from paper-based processes to modern, construction project management apps and digital operations using safety apps.

#1 Modern Operations

Safety apps like GoCanvas are designed to empower businesses of all sizes to completely digitize their operations and business processes. There are many components of a safety program that can be moved away from paper sheets, including things like incident reporting, inspections, safety data sheets, safety meetings, job safety analysis, and much more.

Safety apps for the construction industry take these paper-based processes and convert them into digital programs that are completely accessible to employees via a mobile device on a job site or on a computer.

Making this type of investment in digital technologies is good for workers and the company’s bottom line.

For businesses, investing in worker safety means lower direct and insurance costs, lower legal fees, more competitive bids, and better overall company performance. An article from Construction Executive even cited that an effective safety program “will increase business value and return between $2 and $6 for every $1 invested in injury prevention.”

And for employees, an investment in digital apps brings a modern solution for construction safety. This helps to formalize the programs, makes them accessible for everyone, and promotes best practices in the workplace. All of this can lead to greater employee satisfaction in the long run when employees see a clear investment in programs that benefit their well-being.

#2 Greater Insight into Safety Trends

Data and analytics have historically been underutilized in the construction industry. Research from FMI suggests that 96% of data in the construction industry goes unused.

With mobile apps for safety, construction firms and contractors can have a better understanding of the data that is collected across job sites, automatically rolling this information up for easy reporting.

The end result is time saved on manually manipulating data for reporting purposes and greater insights into trends. A survey of GoCanvas customers found that going digital with forms and apps for construction has saved their teams 50+ hours per week that was historically spent on manually creating reports.

When thinking about greater insights and visibility into the business, take safety meetings as an example.

By digitizing safety meetings through apps, management can get real-time visibility into who has attended required safety training and which job sites are underperforming compared to others, in terms of compliance.

Having the data rolled up instantly for analytics and the ability to drill down into specific job sites or other demographic data can be incredibly useful for spotting safety trends, so your organization can take the appropriate next steps.

#3 Ensure Compliance and Lower Risk

Safety apps are designed to help construction companies and contractors stay in compliance with OSHA and other regulations.

With digital and mobile apps for safety, GoCanvas customers have reported and 18% reduction in their risk and liability. Some of the most common risks with paper forms are data loss, errors on paper forms, and missing or lost information.

Moving from paper to mobile apps can make your OSHA compliance efforts much easier and more effective. With digital technology you can:

Enter data in real-time and that data is not only stored in the cloud but can be immediately shared with a supervisor or manager, minimizing response times
Create a variety of inspection checklists for various tasks and sites – all accessible from a smartphone or tablet
Update your mobile apps as OSHA guidelines evolve and change to reflect changes and immediately deploy the information across your organization

Your mobile safety apps will help to ensure that your business is in compliance with the latest regulations and employees won’t have to rely on paper sheets and inefficient processes.

To learn more about digital apps for safety, check out the GoCanvas website and sign up for a free trial of our no-code platform with app templates designed for the construction industry. Go digital with safety apps for incident reports, inspections, safety data sheets, safety meetings, job safety analysis, and more.

About GoCanvas

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

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What to Know About Building Inspections

Posted on May 21, 2021October 7, 2025 by April Jones

What to Know About Building Inspections

Inspections

Inspecting buildings is not an easy task, as you already know as a contractor or manager of a construction company. Perhaps you’re facing one of your first building inspections, though, and need more information about how they work.

Keep reading to learn about what happens during a building inspection. You’ll learn about the inspection stages, what inspectors check, why inspections are important, the inspector’s role, types of inspections, inspection checklists, and new inspection apps available.

What occurs during a typical building inspection?

The building inspector is there to make sure there isn’t a problem with the structure before it’s bought, rented, or leased. This first means doing one important thing: inspecting the structure and grounds to make sure they comply with all regulations.

To start, the inspector inspects the exterior of the building for any structural problems. They usually check more than the structural integrity of the building outside. It also means checking outdoor handrails, stairs, or even parking areas nearby.

Going inside the building, the inspector then checks the interior walls for signs of any issues. It goes beyond checking how the walls are structured and into signs of mold or cracks. Checking for water damage is also done since this is sometimes hard to detect with the naked eye.

From there, the inspection starts to get more detailed:

Checking doors and windows

Inspecting windows and doors means looking for cracks or other issues that might prevent them from being opened. Emergency exits are carefully inspected to ensure employees or residents can easily open them in the event of a disaster.

The electrical system

An inspection of the electrical system in a building is absolutely essential since one missed flaw in the building’s wiring could mean a future fire hazard. Your inspector checks all the circuit breakers as starters. Also checked are the building’s lights and general security systems.

Plumbing

Making sure the building’s plumbing system is working is equally important as the electrical. Even a minor leak in a pipe could bring considerable damage to a building in the months or years to come. Inspectors look at all fixtures on the premises and check their water pressure.

Fire safety equipment

All fire alarms are checked, plus sprinkler systems to ensure they’ll operate efficiently when or if a fire occurs in the building.

Roof Inspection

Next, the inspector goes on the roof to checks its condition. Leaks are checked for here, including whether the roof can hold up under specific weight from snow or ice.

Ductwork and vents

HVAC systems in buildings need very careful inspection. These often hide flaws that require extra inspection time. Thermostats are checked thoroughly to make sure they have proper filters. You’ll know whether any potential mechanical failures or fire hazards are there.

Other stages of building inspection

As you can see, the stages of a building inspection are very detailed and usually take a full day if not more. Much of this depends on how large the building is.

Inspecting is only one part of the job. Each inspector also has to organize numerous forms, reports, and other important paperwork. It’s all part of the job of having to physically write down what they encounter during the inspection.

Working with physical forms is slightly problematic in today’s time with so much complexity in inspecting buildings. An inspector can easily lose many of their forms in their vehicles or during the inspection process.

Many of those forms are being digitized as apps nowadays to make work easier. Using apps like this also helps with other inspection stages, which might include:

Filling out quality control sheets
Creating dilapidation reports
Creating good condition reports
Handling building permits
Pest/termite inspection reports
Building code violation checklists
Filling out safety and health forms
Asbestos testing

Why are building inspections so important?

Without a building inspection, a number of things can obviously go wrong. While it might seem inconvenient to have the scrutiny of a building inspection, it’s for your own (and everyone’s) safety.

As a construction company or contractor, a building’s structural integrity rests on your shoulders. Should something go wrong and cause injury or death, you might be legally responsible for any damages.

Working closely with a building inspector means being able to scope out any potential fire hazards, or other safety risks posing dangers to people. Something as simple as inspecting a wall, for instance, could scope out the soundness of the building’s structure, not including potential mold issues. Or, the wall might be hiding termites you had no idea were there.

So many building issues are hidden, something only an inspector can find. Being able to find them out means you’ll save your own professional integrity. The building’s owner might discover something wrong and expect you to fix it right away, potentially costing both of you major money.

The role of the building inspector

No one should consider a building inspector to be a burden. A professional inspector will always be courteous and give a fair, educated inspection to save your reputation.

Their role is to also help you avoid any kind of fines from violating regulations or specific building codes. Zoning regulations are often complex and can easily be overlooked within the chaos of construction. Inspectors alert you to any kind of violations you might have missed.

Also know that building inspectors may inspect the site before you even construct the building. With an inspector’s knowledge of construction and engineering, they may have to write up violation forms or even stop-work orders.

Different types of building inspections

Building inspections vary based on what type of building it is. Some inspections are done on the construction site itself. Others take place after the building is built.

In the pre-build phase, the inspector might have to:

Conduct a land survey prior to construction to make sure the land is safe to build on.
Review all your construction blueprints and building plans.
Check the foundation depth before the rest of the building is constructed.

During the construction phase, it might mean the inspector inspecting all your construction equipment to make sure it’s also safe. Another major aspect is inspecting the crane you’re using if building a multi-story structure.

Also during construction, the inspector verifies proper alignment and leveling of the building during the building phase.

Inspectors like this might be different from the ones who inspect the building after it’s completed. Often, inspectors are separated into specific categories. Some will focus just on electrical, plumbing, or mechanical inspections. Others are educated to inspect homes only.

Most important is to respect an inspector’s knowledge. Considering they have degrees in engineering and architecture, they’ll be able to find any flaw in your building.

Apps and software for building inspections

The age of building inspectors using paper for all their forms is starting to come to an end. This is a good thing because with the complexity of their job, losing inspection forms or permits could lead to confusion and more time amending errors.

Over the last five years, more building inspectors are starting to use apps and software to handle their enormous tasks. Best of all is being able to use apps the inspector can take with them to use on their mobile device.

An added bonus to working with these apps is that it allows new intuitive features to help make data entry less stressful. Plus, with the use of more advanced technology, more analytical insights are made available in real-time an inspector could never see using paper in years past.

Data is available in real-time and shared with colleagues instantly. Information is automatically saved to the cloud to avoid any risk or liability of losing paper forms. Analytic trends on apps also offer insights into field operations, something only possible before when the inspector returned to the office.

Create reports and checklists on a phone or tablet

Imagine how much time is saved by a building inspector being able to compile reports on something like a tablet. Even a simple smartphone can hold all the information they need, removing a major hurdle of handling paper forms when entering the building.

Building inspections are done more efficiently this way with lesser chances of making mistakes. GoCanvas digital forms have become the leader in providing these apps. As a result, it’s helping many more building inspectors be able to streamline how they work.

Working with us, inspectors can:

Create their own custom mobile apps.
Collect all the data they need right on their phones.
Instantly share all inspection data with co-workers or customers.

Our apps and software are proven to give a seven-month ROI, plus a 24% productivity rate. Out of all the users we’ve tested, most use GoCanvas for construction inspections, but also for checklists, work orders, safety reports, audits, and inventory.

Above all, our software can easily integrate well with other business apps like Salesforce, Dropbox, or Google Drive.

Visit us to find out more about how our GoCanvas apps and software work with a free demo.

Frequently asked building inspection questions

What is a building inspection and why is it important? +

A building inspection is a visual check of a building’s structure and systems to confirm compliance with building codes and regulations. It helps identify safety hazards, confirm structural integrity, and verify that work matches approved plans. Regular inspections prevent costly repairs and protect occupants.

How do I schedule a building inspection? +

Contact your local building department. Many municipalities have online portals where you can request an inspection by entering permit and project details. Book inspections at key stages of construction to stay compliant with safety standards and regulations.

What does a building inspector look for during an inspection? +

Inspectors review structural components, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, and overall code compliance. They check that construction follows approved plans and local regulations. Finding issues early prevents future problems and keeps occupants safe.

When are building inspections required during construction? +

Inspections are required at key phases such as after the foundation, framing, electrical and plumbing rough-ins, and before final occupancy. These checks confirm each stage meets code and allow corrections before work progresses.

What should I do if my building inspection fails? +

The inspector will list the deficiencies. Correct them promptly and schedule a re-inspection. Addressing the items ensures compliance with safety standards and regulations so the project can move forward without delays.

About GoCanvas

Since 2008, thousands of companies have chosen GoCanvas as their go-to partner for seamless field operations.

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