Irrigation Construction Inspections and Final Punch Lists: Don't Worry, I Saw the Sprinklers Work

A couple of months ago I followed up on a project we completed specifications and a design for.  The contractor was currently installing the system.  I asked if they would like us to complete a couple inspections during construction.  The service was declined, and I was notified that the general contractor (GC) had it under control.

A week ago I received a request for a final walk though.  The GC had already approved the system, but the owner wanted a second opinion.  Most of the irrigation system was below ground at this point, but I was able to perform a visual inspection of the exposed components and view the system in operation.  The following is a partial list of the items out of compliance with the design and specifications:

1. Valve boxes were partially above grade creating a tripping hazard and becoming more susceptible to damage from mowers.
2. Sprinklers nozzles were not as specified.  An additional 900 gallons of water per day of operation is applied to the turf area than required.
3. Two major pipe breaks were found.  The system was designed to operate at 35 gallons per minute.  Exact amount of water wasted could not be determined.  Surrounding landscape and plant material will be damaged if not corrected.   
4. One zone contained different types of sprinklers.  A portion of the landscape covered by this zone would be over/under watered.  Possible loss of plant material.

These are just 4 out of the 21 items listed on the completed punch list.  Most of the additional items relate to the reliability of the system.  Inferior componets were used in lieu of products specified.

So how was this system signed off on and approved prior to this walk through?  Because the GC saw sprinklers throwing water.