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Learn more about inspections and using the myInspections app.
October 2026
September 2026
Things to look for at the beginning of an inspection
You don’t need to be a pro to spot the most common issues in a property. The first few minutes of an inspection can often tell you more than the rest of the walkthrough. Starting with the right mindset helps set the tone for the whole inspection. There are certain signs that, if checked early, can quickly reveal a lot about a property’s condition. For example, checking the areas around a shower might show the first hints of mould before it turns into a major hazard. Similarly, a small crack ...
The most commonly missed items during routine inspections (and how to avoid them)
Insights from a property inspector who’s completed hundreds of inspections If you own or manage a rental property, you probably already understand why routine inspections matter. They’re not just about ticking boxes or making sure the place looks presentable — they help catch problems early, protect your investment, and ensure tenants stay safe and happy. But even experienced landlords, property managers, and yes, professional inspectors, can overlook things. I know this because I’ve conduct...
6 lessons from inspecting 100 properties
By the time most inspectors reach their 100th property, they’re a lot more confident than on day one. The first few inspections often take longer, nerves get in the way, and mistakes are easier to make. But with time, certain lessons stand out as the ones that make inspections smoother, more consistent, and more professional. Here are six of the biggest lessons learned from inspecting 100 properties. 1. Communication is everything Tenants often downplay problems — not out of dishonesty, but...
Setting up your team’s portfolio
If you’re new to myInspections on our Plus or Max plan, getting the right setup from day one really helps. Having your templates and properties ready before inviting the rest of your team makes it easier for them to get started and helps keep inspections consistent across the whole portfolio. This guide will walk you through the setup order I recommend for teams on the Plus or Max plan. 1. Create checklist templates - These define what gets checked in each room or area. 2. Group checklists ...
March 2026
February 2026
Balancing empathy and accuracy
On paper, inspections look simple. Test the smoke alarms. Take the photos. Write the report. In reality, inspections happen in people’s homes - and homes come with emotion. They touch on where someone lives, how someone feels safe, and how someone protects their investment. That combination naturally creates tension. Tenants may fear being blamed. Landlords may worry about hidden damage. And sometimes, both sides want you firmly on their team. But your role, as an inspector, isn’t to take...
Using video walkthroughs to capture what photos can’t
Photos are the backbone of property inspections. They give us unbiased, time-stamped proof of a property’s condition. We document walls, fixtures, smoke alarms, water sources, and safety features. A strong photo set creates clarity. But after years of inspections, one thing is clear: a photo doesn’t always tell the full story. Some issues move. Some issues make noise. Some issues only appear over time. And that’s where video becomes powerful. Where photos fall short Photos are excellent...
What to do when you don’t have all the answers
Property inspections aren’t always neat and predictable. You can have years of experience, a solid checklist, and a structured routine - and a property will still throw you a curveball. There’s a common misconception that a “great” inspector can instantly diagnose every fault, leak, or structural issue on the spot. The truth? No one gets the full picture immediately, every time. The real skill isn’t instant certainty. It’s knowing how to handle uncertainty with structure, honesty, and fol...
Lighting, leaks, and latches: The 3 L’s every inspector should check twice
Routine inspections aren’t just about ticking boxes. They’re about safety, prevention, and protecting the long-term condition of a property. Whether you own, manage, or live in a rental, the biggest problems rarely start big. They begin as small, easily dismissed annoyances. Over time, I’ve found that three simple areas consistently cause the most avoidable issues: Lighting. Leaks. Latches. They sound basic. That’s exactly why they’re often overlooked. Lighting: more than just a bulb We exp...
Why doesn't myInspections offer tenant-led inspections?
At myInspections, our focus is on on-site inspections carried out by property professionals, like property managers and inspectors, as well as DIY landlords. The app is designed to make inspections easy while physically visiting the property, helping document its condition with photos, videos, and notes. Tenant-led inspections simply aren’t the niche we serve, so we stay focused on what we do best: supporting thorough, reliable, in-person inspections.
The one habit that separates good inspectors from great ones
Picture this. You’re walking through a rental property with your inspection checklist. You test the smoke alarms, scan each room, note a small scuff on the baseboard. Everything looks fine. You thank the tenant, close your myInspections app, and generate the report. A solid, professional inspection. But what if behind the neatly closed blinds there’s a small patch of mould forming near the sliding door? What if the reason all the windows are open isn’t “just a nice breeze”? So what separa...
Feature update: Your inspection reports get a make over
At myInspections, we know the PDF report is the bit that really matters. We were surprised to see that in April alone, 55% of inspections resulted in a PDF being generated. It’s the thing you send to landlords, tenants, or clients — so it needs to be clear, reliable, and professional. That’s why we’ve given reports a refresh. We fixed a few of the rough edges, and while we were at it, added some of the features you’ve been asking for. What We Fixed We heard you — some parts of the old repor...
The hidden impact of location on property inspections
Routine inspections aren’t just about condition - they’re about context. Two homes can look identical on paper, yet require completely different inspection priorities based purely on location. A property sheltered inland faces different risks than one exposed to salt spray on the coast. Climate, soil, wind exposure, and humidity all shape how a building ages - and where problems are likely to appear. Understanding location isn’t optional. It’s part of conducting a thorough inspection. Wh...
How to stay neutral when everyone wants you on their side
Property inspections can feel like walking a tightrope. As an inspector, you’re the neutral third party between landlords and tenants - and often, both sides want validation. Routine inspections are essential. But when relationships are already tense, they can quickly become the flashpoint. Neutrality isn’t passive. It’s a professional skill. And when done well, it builds long-term trust on both sides. Why neutrality matters more than you think Inspections aren’t just about property conditi...
Wear and tear vs damage: Getting the balance right during inspections
One of the most common points of tension during property inspections isn’t major structural issues - it’s the small things. A few scratches on a door. Light carpet flattening. Tiny nail holes in a wall. Some oven buildup. The question is always the same: Is this normal wear and tear, or is it damage? Understanding the difference is critical for landlords, property managers, and tenants alike. Clear expectations protect relationships, reduce disputes, and ensure inspection reports stay obje...
What tenants should expect during a property inspection
If receiving an inspection notice makes you want to deep clean the entire house — you’re not alone. Many tenants assume inspections are about judging housekeeping. In reality, that’s not the purpose at all. A routine property inspection is a structured review of the property’s condition. It focuses on maintenance, safety, and identifying issues early — before they become costly problems for either party. Here’s what inspections are really about. Inspections are about condition — not cleanl...
November 2025
September 2025
Should you take notes or photos first during an inspection?
Early in an inspector’s career, juggling a notepad and a camera can feel clumsy. At some point, everyone asks the same question: do you take notes first, or capture photos first? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but some approaches do make the job smoother than others. Why some inspectors start with notesWriting notes first has its appeal. It slows you down, forces careful observation, and gives context before a single photo is taken. Some inspectors feel that notes add a level of pro...
How to prepare a property for a routine inspection (Tenant & landlord tips)
Tenants sometimes scrub a property from top to bottom like royalty was about to arrive, only to find out a simple walkthrough would have been more than enough. Routine inspections aren’t meant to be judgement day — they’re about keeping the property in good shape for everyone. Here’s how both tenants and landlords can prepare without stress. Set realistic expectationsRoutine inspections are not a white-glove cleanliness test, it’s not about catching people out. The real goals are: • Reco...
Seasonal property inspection tips: what to check in summer and winter
Insights from a property inspector who’s completed hundreds of inspections Every season has its own way of showing what’s wrong with a property. Summer heat, winter damp, or even snow and ice can reveal issues you might otherwise miss. Seasonal checks don’t just protect the property — they keep tenants comfortable and landlords at ease. Summer inspections: heat, sun, and stormsThe summer sun can be as tough on a house as it is on your skin. Properties don’t get sunblock, so exterior paint ...
August 2025
The most common excuses in property inspections (and what they really mean)
Everyone in property management and inspections has heard “that excuse” before. The truth is, excuses are part of the job — and most of them follow familiar patterns. Whether it’s a tenant or a landlord, people sometimes give explanations that don’t quite add up. Usually, it’s not about deception, but about avoiding blame or hoping a small issue won’t be taken too seriously. Here are some of the most common excuses inspectors come across — and what they usually mean. “That stain was alr...
What happens if you miss something during an inspection?
No matter how experienced you are, missing something during an inspection will happen eventually. The key is not to panic — what really matters is how you handle it. Here’s what typically happens when something gets missed, how to fix it, and how to prevent it in the future. Why things get missedEven seasoned inspectors slip up, especially when: • Rushing to be respectful of a tenant’s time • Navigating cluttered or staged spaces (like a blocked door) • Working in poor lighting or bad weather...
What tenants really want you to notice during an inspection
Most tenants aren’t overly picky. Many are happy to take care of little things themselves — a squeaky cabinet door, a loose screw, or a minor scuff. But when something affects their comfort or safety? That’s when they really hope you’ll take notice. At the end of the day, tenants want to feel heard. Paying attention to the right things builds trust, keeps tenants longer, and helps you catch problems before they become costly. The 3 things tenants care most about1. Water-related issues • Leak...
Tips for navigating difficult tenant interactions during inspections
Most people think inspections are just about walls, windows, and checklists. But anyone who has done a few knows they’re also about people, emotions, and sometimes tension. Difficult tenant interactions are part of the job, and with the right approach they can usually be managed calmly and professionally. Take this scenario: during a routine inspection, an inspector walked in the door and was immediately met with harsh words from a very frustrated tenant. The issue? A ceiling leak that had go...
How long should a property inspection take?
One of the most common questions new inspectors or landlords ask is how long a property inspection should take. The answer varies depending on the size of the property, its condition, and the purpose of the inspection. Rushing through inspections may feel efficient, but it often leads to mistakes, missed details, or communication issues that cause more problems later. Taking the right amount of time helps ensure inspections are accurate, thorough, and trusted by both tenants and property o...
Communicating inspection findings with property owners and tenants
When you are caught between a tenant who is upset and a property owner who believes everything is fine, communication can make or break the situation. Clear communication matters. Inspections are routine, but misunderstandings during or after them can quickly create tension. An inspector’s role is not just to document issues, but also to communicate them in a way that builds trust, avoids disputes, and speeds up solutions. Communicating with tenants When speaking with tenants, avoid over...
Advice for new property inspectors: What to focus on when starting out
Starting out as a property inspector (or self-managing landlord conducting your own inspections) can feel overwhelming. Inspections are more than just filling in a checklist - they require communication, consistency, and attention to detail. Here are some lessons that can save new inspectors time, stress, and misunderstandings. 1. Communication matters as much as documentation It’s easy to think inspections are purely about recording details, but clear, respectful communication with both...
Pen and paper vs inspection software: which is better for property inspections?
If you’ve ever tried juggling pens, clipboards, and forms during an inspection in the rain, you’ll know exactly how tricky it can get. Property inspections are all about details, and how you record those details is just as important as spotting them in the first place. The way you document can make the whole process faster, clearer, and a lot less stressful. So, what works better these days - trusty pen and paper, or modern inspection software? The classic way: pen and paperThere’s somethi...
Photo evidence in property inspections: What’s acceptable, useful, and necessary
Not all photos are created equal when it comes to property inspections. Photo evidence is one of the most important parts of an inspection because it provides unbiased proof of the property’s condition. But not every photo adds value. Knowing what to capture (and what to avoid) makes all the difference. Here’s a guide to the necessary, useful, and acceptable photos – plus some pitfalls to avoid. Necessary photos (non-negotiables)Every inspection should include these, no matter what: • Wat...
True stories from property inspections: weird discoveries and what they mean
Inspections aren’t always just about broken light bulbs and cracked tiles. Sometimes you stumble across something completely unexpected. These strange discoveries aren’t just quirky stories — they can be signs of deeper issues, overlooked maintenance, or unusual tenant behaviour. Here are some of the weirdest inspection finds (and the lessons behind them). Mushrooms in the bathroomYes, mushrooms. Not the kind that belong on pizza, but actual fungi growing from a mouldy shower door seal. Mois...
Top 5 things that look like damage (but aren’t)
Not all marks found in a property are signs of neglect or malicious behaviour. Many are simply the result of everyday living. Recognising the difference between real damage and normal wear and tear can ease landlord–tenant tensions and help keep relationships positive. Here are five of the most common “false alarms” inspectors and landlords come across. 1. Furniture marks in the carpet Heavy furniture can leave indentations in carpet over time. Think about a big family couch - the legs car...
How to tell if a property is being maintained in the first 3 minutes
The first three minutes of an inspection can reveal more than the next thirty. Property inspections are one of those situations where first impressions matter for both landlords and inspectors. Paying attention to key signals right away can help you quickly assess whether a property is being well-maintained or neglected. Step 1. Scan the exteriorBefore even stepping inside, take in the exterior of the property. Are the lawns and landscaping neat? Is the paintwork intact? Is there visible d...
June 2025
May 2025
Should property owners attend inspections? A guide for property managers
As a property manager or inspector, you've likely been asked whether a property owner should attend an inspection. From my experience, having owners present can go either way. Here’s a breakdown of the pros, cons, and most importantly, how to manage the situation when property owners want to tag along. When Property Owners Are HelpfulThere are definitely times when having a landlord or owner present can be a big plus. 1. Context is everything - I once inspected a property where the kitchen...
AB 2801: What California’s Security Deposits Law Means for Landlords
California’s Assembly Bill 2801 (AB 2801) is now in effect, bringing in new compliance requirements for landlords and property managers—especially when it comes to security deposit deductions. One key requirement? Photo documentation at every stage of a tenancy. If you’re using or considering myInspections, this change is especially relevant. Here’s what you need to know and how our app can help. Quick Overview of AB 2801AB 2801 introduces: • Limits on what landlords can deduct from securi...
April 2025
Should tenants be present during routine inspections?
Insights from a professional property inspector with hundreds of inspections under his belt Routine inspections are an essential part of rental property management. They help landlords stay on top of maintenance, ensure the property is being looked after, and pick up on issues before they become expensive problems. But one question that often comes up is: should tenants be present during the inspection? As a property inspector, I’ve seen both sides — from helpful and communicative tenants ...
How to spot unreported water damage before it becomes costly
Water damage is one of the most expensive and disruptive issues a landlord can face. Left unchecked, it can lead to structural damage, mould growth, and costly repairs. Unfortunately, tenants may not always report minor leaks or hidden water damage until it becomes a major problem. As a landlord or property manager, proactive inspections can save you thousands in repairs. Here's how to spot unreported water damage before it escalates. 1. Look for visible signs of moisture Even if tenant...