Resources

Managing property inspections doesn’t need to be complicated. With the My Inspections app, you can go from start to finished report in just a few steps. In this tutorial, we’ll walk through the process of adding a property, running an inspection, capturing issues, and finalising a report. 📹 Watch the full demo video here, then follow along with the step-by-step guide. Step 1: Add a PropertyStart by adding the property you want to inspect. • Enter the property name or address • Choose the insp...

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 FixedWe heard you — some parts of the old report...

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: • Recordi...

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 profes...

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 can...

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 alread...

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...

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 owne...

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: • Water ...

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 ...

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 te...

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 overly ...

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...

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 something ...

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...

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 dama...

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...

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...

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...

When it comes to rental property inspections, one room consistently tops the list for issues—and no, it’s not the kitchen. These insights come from a professional property inspector with hundreds of inspections under his belt, and over time, a clear pattern has emerged: bathrooms cause the most trouble. I’ve seen just about everything during inspections—worn carpets, dodgy garage wiring, chipped paint. But time and again, it’s the bathroom that causes the most fails. Here’s why bathrooms ar...

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 security ...

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 ap...

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 ...

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...

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 tenants h...