Understanding Work Orders & Instructions
Every inspection begins with a work order. This document tells you what the client wants, what photos are required, and what special conditions apply to the property.
Reading the work order carefully prevents mistakes, follow-ups, and chargebacks.
What a Work Order Includes
• Client name and inspection type
Tells you who ordered the job and what service you are performing.
• Required photos
Every client has specific photo standards. Missing one required photo creates an automatic Follow-Up.
If there are no listed photo requirements, refer to your training. You always need to take at least 8-10 photos. This is an NMFS requirement.
• Written instructions
Details about what to check, what to document, and anything unique to the property.
• Special notes from the client or NMFS
Examples:
– “Take a photo of posted City Violation Notice.”
– “Do not enter the home — exterior only.”
– “Verify lockbox code and update if changed.”
• Time-sensitive requirements
Some inspections require multiple attempts or specific visit times (Insurance Loss, Occupancy, etc.).
How to Read Instructions Correctly
• Read the entire work order before leaving your driveway.
Do not skim. Many follow-ups occur because inspectors overlook a single sentence.
• Look for anything highlighted or bold.
Clients highlight items because they matter.
• Check for repeat-required photos.
Some clients require:
– 2 street scenes
– 2 neighborhood photos
– Multiple angles of the same area
• Note any restricted actions
Examples:
– No-contact allowed only
– No entering the structure
– No walking into fenced yards
• Review location details
GPS often identifies if the address is correct or if you’re at the wrong house.
What to Do When Instructions Don’t Make Sense
If you are unsure about anything:
-
Read the work order again slowly.
-
Look for keywords like “required,” “must,” “verify,” “include,” or “take photo of.”
-
Check previous inspections (on the IA website) if available.
-
Leave a comment for the NMFS account manager — not a text, not an email.
Never guess. Always confirm.
Your Responsibility
You are responsible for:
-
Understanding the inspection type
-
Following all instructions exactly
-
Taking every required photo
-
Uploading the inspection immediately after completion
-
Leaving clear notes when needed
-
Asking questions before performing the work, not after
-
Ensuring accuracy, completeness, and honesty
Every inspection you complete reflects on NMFS and affects whether we gain or lose clients.
Summary
Work orders tell you everything you need to do. Reading them carefully — every time — prevents:
-
Follow-ups
-
Chargebacks
-
Reassignments
-
Lost income
-
Returned inspections
-
Unhappy clients
Thoroughness is your strongest professional tool.