What happens if you miss something during an inspection?
Why things get missed
Even 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
- Overlooking small or hidden areas
Commonly missed spots include:
- Under bathroom sinks
- Closets hidden behind open doors
- Entire rooms used as storage
It happens — and it doesn’t mean the inspection has failed.
How to handle a missed item
- Acknowledge it
Don’t ignore it or hope no one notices. Transparency builds trust. - Find a solution
- Schedule a quick return visit, even the same day if possible
- Ask the tenant or landlord to take detailed, multi-angle photos
- Use software like myInspections to upload late photos and notes directly into the report, clearly stating the reason for the addition
- Communicate
Tenants often appreciate when inspectors admit an oversight and follow up. Landlords respect a professional who owns the process rather than just ticking boxes.
Owning up to mistakes and fixing them strengthens your credibility.
How to prevent missed items
- Follow a routine by room type
- Bathrooms and kitchens: always check under sinks
- Living areas and bedrooms: check windows, then walls
- Use a checklist
Digital tools like myInspections guide your flow and ensure nothing gets skipped. - Do a final walk-through
One last circuit of the property catches easy-to-miss gaps. - Engage with tenants
They may point out areas you might have overlooked.
Missing something doesn’t mean the inspection failed — it just means you’re human. What matters is staying solution-focused, professional, and transparent. With a solid process, clear communication, and the right tools, you can turn a small mistake into an opportunity to build trust.
The information contained in this article is exclusively for promotional purposes. It does not in any way constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as the basis for any legal action or contractual dealings. The information is not and does not attempt to be, a comprehensive account of the relevant law. If you require legal advice, you should seek independent legal counsel. myInspections does not accept any liability that may arise from the use of this information.
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