Interior access inspections require strict adherence to NMFS procedures for safety, liability protection, and client compliance. This lesson explains exactly when interior access is allowed, what steps must be followed, and how to document all findings properly.
1. When Interior Access Is Allowed
You may enter the property only when the work order explicitly states that interior access is authorized.
Interior access is permitted for:
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Interior inspections
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Insurance/loss draft inspections
- Certain property condition reports
Interior access is not allowed for:
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Basic occupancy checks
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Drive-by inspections
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No-contact inspections
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Any inspection where the order does not clearly authorize entry
If the work order does not say “interior access,” do not enter.
2. Safety First — Always
Before entering:
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Knock firmly on the front door
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Announce yourself clearly
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Listen for movement, voices, or animals
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Never enter if you feel unsafe
You must not enter if you observe:
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Squatters
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Strong odors (gas, chemicals, mold)
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Structural instability
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Threatening individuals
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Loose or aggressive animals
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Criminal activity
When in doubt, do not enter and document the situation.
3. Proper Entry Procedure
If the door is unlocked or access is provided:
A. Announce Yourself Again
Say something like:
“Hello! Inspector! NMFS inspection!”
Pause and listen before proceeding.
B. Enter Slowly and Cautiously
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Keep your phone on you at all times
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Move through the home slowly
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Do not open closed drawers or personal cabinets
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Do not disturb belongings
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Do not touch personal items unless required for safety
4. Required Interior Photos
Take clear, well-lit photos of:
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Every room
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Kitchen
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All bathrooms
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Bedrooms
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Hallways
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Closets (door open, but do not touch contents)
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Basement / crawl space (if safe)
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Attic (if safely accessible)
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Utilities (water heater, furnace, electric panel, gas meter)
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HVAC units
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Appliances
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Any damage (water intrusion, mold, vandalism, etc.)
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Any personal property left inside
Take enough photos to clearly show the condition of the home.
5. Documenting Damages and Hazards
Damage can be described as something that requires prompt attention to protect the property. A baseball-sized hole in an interior wall isn’t urgent—it could remain there for years without causing further harm to the property.
When damage is found:
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Describe the type of damage
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Identify the room or location
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Note the severity
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Specify if the issue appears old or new (if obvious)
If a hazard is present:
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Take photos
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Back away if unsafe
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Write detailed notes
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Contact NMFS if the hazard is significant
6. Personal Property Guidelines
If personal property is inside the home:
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Photograph all items in each room
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Do not move, touch, or open personal belongings
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Note items of value
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Note volume of personal contents (light / medium / heavy)
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Never remove anything from the property
7. Locking Up and Securing the Property
Before leaving:
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Ensure all doors you accessed are securely closed
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If the work order authorized locking or re-securing, follow instructions exactly
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Never leave a property unlocked
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Confirm that no animals followed you inside or outside
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Do a final sweep for safety hazards
8. Required Notes for Interior Access
Your written notes must include:
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How access was obtained
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Whether the door was unlocked or opened by occupant
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Statements from any occupants present
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Rooms inspected
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Any damage or hazards
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Any areas you could not safely enter and why
Clear notes prevent rejections and callbacks.