Selecting a Template

Choosing the correct template is a crucial first step when starting a new inspection, as it determines your available content, required completions, and report structure.

How to Select a Template

Starting New Inspection

1. Initiate Inspection Creation: Tap the "Create Inspection" button on the Home screen
2. Template Selection Screen: You'll be presented with available template options
3. Review Templates: Browse the list of available templates
4. Make Selection: Tap on the desired template name to select it
5. Confirm Choice: Proceed with the selected template

Template Selection Interface

The template selection screen provides access to:

My Templates Tab

• Personal Templates: Templates you've created or customized
• Active Template: Currently selected template (highlighted)
• Template Details: Name, description, and last modified date
• Quick Actions: Select, edit, or delete templates

Pre-built Templates Tab

• Professional Library: Expertly crafted, ready-to-use templates
• Category Organization: Templates grouped by inspection type
• Template Descriptions: Detailed information about coverage and features
• Usage Statistics: Popular templates and adoption rates
• Copy and Customize: Create personal copies for modification

Template Selection Impact

Your template choice affects multiple aspects of your inspection workflow:

Comment Library Access

Template Filtering:

• Relevant Comments Only: Only comments associated with the selected template appear in searches
• Category Organization: Comments are organized by template categories and subcategories
• Search Efficiency: Filtering improves search speed and relevance
• Consistent Context: Ensures comments match your inspection type

Example Impact:

• Selecting "Residential Inspection" template shows only residential-specific comments
• Commercial template selection filters out residential-only observations
• Specialized templates provide access to industry-specific comment libraries

Required Notes and Questions

Mandatory Completions:

• Template-Specific Notes: Each template has its own required note selections
• Progress Tracking: Required notes must be completed for report finalization
• Customized Questions: Template-specific questions appear during inspection
• Validation Rules: Template determines what must be completed

Types of Requirements:

• Required Notes: Mandatory dropdown or checkbox selections
• Template Questions: Form fields that must be answered
• Information Fields: Essential data collection points
• Progress Indicators: Show completion status for template requirements

Report Structure and Content

Organization Framework:

• Categories and Subcategories: Template defines report section structure
• Content Ordering: Determines how information is organized in reports
• Professional Format: Ensures consistent, professional presentation
• Template-Specific Formatting: Custom layouts for different inspection types

Template Types and Characteristics

Residential Templates

Common Features:

• Homeowner-Focused Language: Comments written for homeowner audiences
• Standard Systems: Typical residential electrical, plumbing, HVAC categories
• Safety Emphasis: Focus on residential safety concerns
• Maintenance Notes: Homeowner maintenance recommendations

Typical Required Notes:

• Property type and age information
• Weather conditions during inspection
• Scope limitations and disclaimers
• Safety recommendations

Commercial Templates

Common Features:

• Code Compliance Focus: Emphasis on building codes and regulations
• Business Impact Language: Comments consider business operations
• Complex Systems: Advanced HVAC, electrical, and structural categories
• Regulatory Requirements: ADA compliance, fire safety, etc.

Typical Required Notes:

• Building occupancy and use type
• Code compliance status
• Accessibility assessment
• Safety and emergency systems

Specialized Templates

Examples:

• Pool and Spa Inspections: Specialized safety and equipment categories
• Historic Properties: Focus on preservation and appropriate interventions
• Energy Audits: Efficiency-focused categories and metrics
• Environmental Assessments: Specialized testing and analysis categories

Making the Right Choice

Pre-Selection Considerations

Property Analysis:

1. Property Type: Residential, commercial, industrial, or specialized
2. Inspection Scope: Full inspection, specific systems, or limited scope
3. Client Needs: Standard report, specialized requirements, or custom format
4. Regulatory Requirements: Local codes, industry standards, or specific mandates

Template Evaluation:

1. Content Relevance: Does template match inspection scope?
2. Comment Library: Are relevant comments available?
3. Required Completions: Are mandatory fields appropriate?
4. Report Format: Does output meet client expectations?

Best Practices

Selection Strategy

• Understand Scope: Clearly define inspection requirements
• Review Templates: Familiarize yourself with available options
• Consider Client: Match template to client needs and expectations
• Plan Ahead: Think about report requirements and format

Template selection is a strategic decision that impacts efficiency, completeness, and professionalism of your inspections.