During the lead up to substantial completion, problems start popping up like crabgrass. You can't stop them. You can't avoid them. They drive you nuts, constantly testing you temper and pushing your hot buttons.

If you are one of the finishing trades (painter, flooring, finish carpenter, etc) you end up tripping all over yourself to finish the job, to avoid liquidated damages and to remain efficient.

Regardless of whether you are a finishing trade, all trades struggle with the final paperwork.

You need an emergency action plan to survive close-out and to get your retention application paid promptly.

Four simple habits will help you ride out the close-out process successfully.

• Coordination
• Communication
• Commitment
• Forgiveness

Each habit is simple, doable, and takes just a little self-discipline.