Daily logs are one of the most important tools you have to protect your business on the job site. When a dispute comes up over delays, damage, or incomplete work, your daily records can make the difference between a costly claim and a clear defense.
But how detailed do they really need to be? The short answer: detailed enough to show what happened, who was responsible, and when it happened. Below, we break down what to include in your daily logs and why it matters.
Why Your Daily Log Is Your First Line of Protection
Daily logs are written records of jobsite activity. If a client claims work wasn’t completed or damage occurred under your watch, your logs can help you prove:
Who was on the job that day
What work was performed
What the site conditions were
If there were delays, and what caused them
Whether subcontractors were present
If safety protocols were followed
Any client instructions or changes
Without this information, it becomes your word against theirs — and that’s a risk you don’t want to take.
What to Include in Your Daily Logs
A complete daily log doesn’t need to be long, but it should be consistent and accurate. Use this checklist to make sure you’re covering the key points.
1. Date and Job Name
Always include the full date and project name or address.
2. Crew Members On Site
List each worker or subcontractor on the job.
Note arrival and departure times if possible.
3. Work Performed
Summarize the tasks completed that day.
Include locations on site and materials used.
Mention any milestones reached.
4. Weather and Site Conditions
Record temperature, rain, wind, or other conditions that affected the work.
Note if any unsafe or unusual site conditions were present.
5. Equipment and Deliveries
List major equipment used.
Document material deliveries, delays, or shortages.
6. Issues or Delays
- Note anything that slowed or stopped work, such as:
Client changes
Waiting on materials
Other trades blocking access
Safety concerns
7. Instructions or Changes
Record any client or supervisor instructions.
Reference change orders and note if they were verbal or written.
8. Incidents or Hazards
Include injuries, near misses, or property damage.
Note if an incident report was filed.
9. Photo Documentation
Attach or reference photos taken that day.
Photos help show work progress, site conditions, and potential risks.
The Right Level of Detail for Daily Reports
Your log should be factual and clear. Avoid unnecessary opinions or long explanations. Stick to what happened, who was involved, and what actions were taken.
Too little detail example: “Worked on framing.” This doesn’t show what was completed or how long it took.
Better example: “Crew framed 2nd floor bedroom and hallway. Installed headers over two windows. Work delayed from 1 – 3 p.m. due to electrician accessing same area.” This level of detail shows progress, coordination issues, and accountability.
Tips for Staying Consistent With Daily Logs
Use a standardized template or app for logging daily activity.
Complete logs at the end of each day — not days later.
Train your site supervisor or foreman to write clear, factual entries.
Save logs in a shared folder or job management system.
Keep copies for at least 3 – 5 years in case of legal claims.
Protect Your Business
In a dispute, detailed daily logs are one of the best forms of protection you have. They show that your team was organized, professional, and on top of jobsite conditions. Make it a habit to log consistently and accurately. The time you invest each day could save you thousands in the future.
