Every inspection type requires a consistent set of photos to ensure accuracy, support your findings, and prevent work order rejections. This lesson outlines the core photo standards used by NMFS and our clients.
1. Exterior Photo Requirements
Regardless of inspection type, always take the following exterior photos:
-
Front of the property
Full view of the house from the street.
-
Address verification
Street number on mailbox, house, curb, gate, or meter.
-
Left side and right side of the structure
Capture full structure when possible.
-
Rear of the property
If accessible and safe. -
Street view looking left and right
Shows the surrounding neighborhood and occupancy indicators. - Street Signs
Close up, zoom.
-
Driveway / Parking area
2. Occupancy Indicator Photos
All inspections require proof of occupancy status. Include:
-
Vehicles present
-
Personal items (furniture, toys, tools)
-
Trash cans at curb
-
Curtains/blinds positions
-
Lights on/off
-
Foot paths in grass
-
Deliveries or packages
Take photos even if indicators contradict each other.
3. Safety & Hazard Photos
Capture any situation that may present risk:
-
Downed tree limbs
-
Broken windows
-
Open doors
-
Foundation issues
-
Roof or siding damage
-
Standing water
-
Exposed wiring
-
Anything unusual or unsafe
If you see it, photograph it.
4. Interior Photo Requirements
(Only for work orders that authorize interior access)
-
All rooms
-
Kitchen
-
Bathrooms
-
Basement / crawl space
-
Utilities (meter, water heater, furnace, breaker box)
-
Any damage or personal property
-
All appliances
-
Attic if accessible
5. Meter & Utility Photos
Required when applicable:
-
Electric meter
-
Water meter
-
Gas meter
-
Any lock/plug devices
-
Readings must be clear and legible
If the meter cannot be located, submit:
-
Photo of the area where it should be
-
Notes explaining what you observed
6. Additional Photos That Prevent Rejections
These photos reduce callbacks:
-
“No Access” or “Gated Entry”
-
“Dogs present”
-
“Door hanger left on… [location]”
-
“Unable to verify address” (take surrounding homes)
-
“Mailbox missing / no numbers”
When in doubt, take more photos.
7. Photo Quality Standards
All photos must be:
-
Clear and in focus
-
Properly lit
-
Oriented upright
-
Showing the entire subject
-
Free of fingers, glare, or dashboard reflections
-
With GPS metadata enabled
Blurry photos will cause automatic rejections.