Whether buying or selling a home, it’s important to assess the property’s condition accurately to ensure no issues or potential problems. That’s where a home inspection app can come in handy. These easy-to-download tools, such as Happy Inspector, HomeGauge, and Jotform (our top 3 home inspection apps), can help you evaluate everything from the structural integrity of the building to the condition of its HVAC system.
Some even provide information about local building codes and regulations, making them invaluable resources for any homeowner. This article will focus on the 10 popular home inspection apps you should try.
Let’s get started!
What Is Building Inspection Software?
Building inspection software is a type of software designed to streamline the process of conducting building inspections. It gives building inspectors the necessary tools to perform inspections more efficiently and accurately.
Building inspection software typically includes digital checklists, mobile access, photo and video documentation, and real-time reporting. The software can create inspection reports and automatically notify building owners, managers, and stakeholders.
Building inspection software can also schedule inspections, manage inspection data, track inspection history, and generate alerts and notifications for necessary maintenance and repairs. By using building inspection software, inspectors can reduce the time and paperwork involved in conducting inspections. Building owners and managers can easily track the condition of their buildings and schedule necessary maintenance and repairs.
1. Happy Inspector
Image credit: happy.co
It can be challenging to keep up with the constant demands of managing a rental property, whether you’re a landlord, investor, or property manager. With so many different tasks and activities to juggle, it’s easy for things to get out of hand. However, ensuring your properties are maintained at a high standard is essential. That is where a tool like Happy Inspector comes in.
Its state-of-the-art home inspection software makes it easier to stay on top of your properties from start to finish. Whether you need a thorough property inspection, generate work orders for needed repairs, or carry out quick maintenance tasks, this app has everything you need. Its pre-made templates are easy to customize and use, while its intuitive interface and advanced features make it simple to get the job done quickly and effectively.
2. HomeGauge
HomeGauge is an all-in-one, widely-accepted home inspection software that makes it easy to get the job done. It is ideal for home buyers or sellers, home inspectors, and real estate professionals. With its web writer, you can easily create cloud-based inspection reports from any device. It has advanced functionality and connects seamlessly to iOS and Android companion devices.
Image credit: nickpatrocky.com
Other key features include a scheduling tool, dashboard, online payment capabilities, e-signature, and content services. You can also use the built-in tips feature to store important coded information or clearance data for reference.
3. Jotform
When conducting property inspections, the process can be time-consuming and tedious. Paper forms and checklists are often error-prone, resulting in inaccurate information and incomplete reports. To avoid these common problems, many professionals have turned to online forms and templates like those offered by Jotform home inspection software.
With custom forms that can be easily customized to your specific needs, you can create professional-looking inspection reports in just a few clicks. In addition to providing a wide range of form templates designed specifically for property inspections, Jotform inspection reporting software allows buyers to select the inspection form that best suits their needs.
Image credit: www.jotform.com
These customizable templates make it easy for buyers to choose exactly what type of inspection will best suit their needs, giving them a more accurate report that is easier to read. Whether you are a real estate agent or simply buying your own home, this inspection app will make your life easier and help you feel confident in the quality of any property you may be considering.
4. ZInspector
zInspector is the go-to solution for anyone in property management, real estate, or construction trades. Whether you need to take detailed photos and videos of damaged properties or want to keep a comprehensive portfolio of all your properties, zInspector has everything you need to perform your job quickly, efficiently, and accurately.
This home inspection software comprises features like video and photo capture tools with zoom, rotation, and markup capabilities and a robust task management system that allows you to assign tasks to other team members and track progress in real-time. Thanks to its intuitive interface, available as a mobile app on iOS and Android devices, zInspector makes it simple for anyone in the field to record important data about any property quickly and easily.
Image credit: www.rentecdirect.com
When those records have been captured, zInspector lets you seamlessly upload them to either Google Drive or Dropbox, making your job easier. With its integrated property database, zInspector helps eliminate bulky Excel spreadsheets and gives you anything-on-everything search capabilities to find what you need when managing multiple properties quickly.
5. Property Inspect
Property inspection software is a type of software that helps property inspectors or real estate professionals to manage and conduct property inspections more efficiently. This software can be used for various purposes, such as creating inspection checklists, generating reports, tracking maintenance requests, and managing property portfolios.
Image credit: propertyinspect.com
Some common features of Property Inspect include mobile accessibility, cloud-based storage, and integration with other software. Overall, property inspection software can help property inspectors and real estate professionals save time, improve accuracy, and provide better service to their clients.
6. SafetyCulture (Formerly Iauditor)
SafetyCulture is a software company that provides cloud-based software solutions for workplace safety and compliance. The company was founded in 2004 in Australia and has since expanded to serve customers worldwide.
SafetyCulture offers a range of products, including iAuditor, a mobile inspection app that enables users to conduct safety inspections and report on hazards and incidents in real time. The home inspection software allows users to capture and store photo evidence, assign corrective actions, and generate detailed reports. Other products offered by SafetyCulture include EdApp, a mobile learning platform, and Safetypad, a safety management system designed for small businesses.
Image credit: www.youtube.com
SafetyCulture aims to empower frontline workers to prioritize safety and improve workplace safety outcomes worldwide. The company has been recognized for its innovative approach to workplace safety, and businesses use its products in various industries, including construction, manufacturing, hospitality, and healthcare.
7. Appfolio Property Manager
Appfolio Property Manager is a cloud-based best home inspection software designed for property managers and landlords to manage their rental properties more efficiently. The software provides tools for managing properties, tenants, and accounting in one platform.
With Appfolio, property managers can manage all their properties in one place, including rent collection, maintenance requests, lease agreements, and communication with tenants in the home inspection business. The software also allows for online rental applications, background checks, and tenant and property performance metrics tracking.
Image credit: www.themuse.com
Appfolio’s accounting features include rent tracking, expense management, and financial reporting. The software integrates with popular accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero, making it easy to export data and work with an accountant.
One of the key benefits of Appfolio is its mobile app, which allows property managers and tenants to access important information and perform tasks on the go. The app allows tenants to pay rent, submit maintenance requests, and communicate with their property managers from their mobile devices.
Appfolio is used by thousands of property managers and landlords across the United States and Canada, including single-family homes, apartment complexes, and commercial properties. Its user-friendly interface and robust features make it a popular choice for those looking to streamline their property management processes.
8. Connecteam
Connecteam is a mobile-first employee management platform that provides various solutions for businesses, including a home inspection app designed for property management companies and inspectors.
Image credit: www.duns100.co.il
The Connecteam home inspection app allows inspectors to create custom checklists and forms for different inspections, including home inspections, rental inspections, and move-in/move-out inspections. The app also allows inspectors to capture photos and videos, annotate images, and take notes to document any issues or observations.
The property inspection app includes a scheduling feature, which allows property managers to schedule inspections and assign them to specific inspectors. Inspectors can also communicate with each other and property managers through the app, as well as generate and share detailed reports with photos and videos.
The Connecteam home inspection app is designed to help property managers and inspectors streamline their inspection processes, increase efficiency, and reduce the risk of errors or oversights. The app is available on iOS and Android devices and offers offline capabilities for areas with limited internet connectivity.
Connecteam’s platform also offers other features that may be useful for property management companies, such as time tracking, employee scheduling, and internal communication tools. The company offers a free trial period and flexible pricing plans based on the number of users and features required.
9. AppSheet
AppSheet is a no-code app development platform that enables users to create custom mobile apps without requiring programming skills. The platform provides templates and integrations to help users build apps for various purposes, including home inspection.
Image credit: public-assets.skooldio.com
The AppSheet home inspection app template allows property managers, inspectors, and contractors to create custom checklists and forms for different inspections, including home inspections, rental inspections, and move-in/move-out inspections. Users can capture photos and videos, annotate images, and take notes to document any issues or observations.
The free home inspection software also includes features for scheduling inspections, generating detailed reports, and sharing reports with clients and colleagues. The app is designed to help property managers and inspectors increase efficiency, reduce the risk of errors, and improve communication with clients.
AppSheet’s platform also offers other features that may be useful for property management companies, such as data collection and analysis tools, workflow automation, and integrations with other software solutions. The company offers a free trial period and pricing plans based on the number of users and features required.
10. Inspection Support Network
The Inspection Support Network (ISN) is a software platform designed to streamline and automate the business operations of home inspection companies. The platform provides tools to help home inspectors manage their schedules, appointments, clients, and reporting processes.
Image credit: porchgroup.com
The ISN platform includes features such as appointment scheduling, customer relationship management, online payment processing, report generation, and marketing automation. These features are designed to help home inspectors manage their workflow more efficiently and effectively, freeing up time to focus on inspections and other critical tasks.
One of the key benefits of ISN is its ability to integrate with other software solutions used by home inspection companies, such as report writing software, accounting software, and marketing automation tools. This integration allows inspectors to streamline their business operations, from scheduling appointments to generating reports and invoicing clients.
ISN also offers a variety of training and support resources, including live webinars, online training courses, and a customer support team available by phone, email, or chat. The platform is used by thousands of home inspection companies across the United States and Canada, ranging from independent inspectors to larger multi-inspector firms.
The Inspection Support Network is a comprehensive software platform designed to help home inspection companies streamline business operations, improve workflow, and enhance customer service.
Factors to Consider When Acquiring Home Inspection Apps
Here are some critical factors to consider when acquiring a home inspection app:
1. User-Friendliness
Image credit: www.housetohomeyyc.com
When acquiring a home inspection app, one of the essential factors to consider is its user-friendliness. The app should be easy to navigate, and the interface should be simple and intuitive. The last thing an inspector wants is an app that is complicated to use, as this can slow down the inspection process and lead to inaccuracies in the report.
2. Integration
Another crucial factor to consider when acquiring a home inspection app is its integration capabilities. The app should be able to integrate with other software or platforms that are currently in use. This could include accounting software, CRM, or even marketing tools. An app that integrates with other software can streamline processes and make the inspector’s work easier.
3. Reporting Capabilities
The primary purpose of a home inspection app is to generate a report. Therefore, it is vital to consider the reporting capabilities of the app.
Image credit: propertyinspect.com
The professional home inspection reports generated should be comprehensive and detailed. It should be able to capture all the necessary information, including photos, videos, and notes. The report should also be customizable, allowing inspectors to add their company logo, contact information, and other branding elements.
4. Compatibility
When acquiring a home inspection app, ensuring it is compatible with the inspector’s devices is essential. The home inspection solution should be compatible with both iOS and Android devices. This will ensure that the app can be used on smartphones and tablets, which inspectors commonly use. Compatibility with different devices also ensures that different inspectors can use the app with different devices.
5. Price
Price is another essential factor to consider when acquiring a home inspection app. The app’s price should be reasonable and within the inspector’s budget. It is essential to consider the app’s value relative to its price. There may be better options than an expensive app, and a cheaper one may not be the most effective. Therefore, it is essential to strike a balance between price and value.
6. Customer Support
When acquiring a home inspection app, it is important to consider the level of customer supports the app developer provides.
Image credit: propertyinspect.com
The developer should provide adequate email, phone, and chat support. The developer should update the app regularly to ensure it remains up-to-date and bug-free.
7. Security
The app’s security is another essential factor when acquiring a home inspection app. The app should have robust security features to capture secure data during inspections. The app should also comply with industry standards and regulations like HIPAA and GDPR.
8. Offline Capabilities
The home inspection app should have offline capabilities. This means inspectors should be able to use the app even when there is no internet connection. The app should be able to store data locally on the device and sync it with the cloud once an internet connection is available.
9. Customization
The app should be customizable, allowing inspectors to personalize it according to their needs.
Image credit: www.atitrainingstore.com
Inspectors should be able to customize the report format, add notes, and customize the inspection checklist. Customization ensures that the app can be tailored to the specific needs of the inspector and the industry they are serving.
10. Training
When acquiring a home inspection app, it is essential to consider the level of training required to use the app effectively. The app should be easy to use, but the developer should provide adequate training to ensure that inspectors can use the app optimally. The training should be provided in various forms, including video tutorials, user manuals, and online support. The developer should also provide ongoing training to ensure that inspectors are up to date with new features and updates.
11. Integration with Inspection Standards
Home inspection apps should be able to integrate with inspection standards such as the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) and the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI). This ensures that the app adheres to industry standards and guidelines and that the report generated meets industry expectations.
12. Reviews and Rating
Before acquiring a home inspection app, it is essential to check reviews and ratings from other inspectors who have used the app.
Image credit: www.atkinsonhomeinspections.com
This provides insight into the user experience, the quality of the report generated, and the level of customer support the developer provides. Reviews and ratings can be found on app stores, forums, and social media platforms.
13. Ease of Data Backup and Retrieval
The app should have a backup and retrieval feature that makes retrieving data easy in case of device loss or damage. The app should be able to store data in the cloud and make it accessible from other devices. This ensures inspection reports are not lost, and the inspector can continue working seamlessly after device loss or damage.
Frequently Asked Questions on Home Inspection Apps
a) What app do home inspectors use?
Several home inspection apps are available for home inspectors, depending on their needs and preferences, including HomeGauge, Safetyculture, and Jotform, among others mentioned above. These apps can help home inspectors streamline their inspection process, create professional-looking reports, and increase efficiency.
b) What is in a home inspection checklist?
A home inspection checklist is a detailed list of items that a home inspector examines during a home inspection.
Image credit: propertyinspect.com
The checklist may vary depending on the inspector’s qualifications, the type of property, and the location. However, some common items typically included in a home inspection checklist are the roof, exterior, interior, electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning.
The inspector may also take photos and notes throughout the inspection, which are used to create a detailed report of their findings. The report includes any defects, safety issues, or necessary repairs.
c) What are the major problems in a home inspection?
The most common issues during a home inspection include structural issues, electrical and plumbing problems, faulty wiring, leaky pipes, heating and cooling systems, water damage, pest infestations, environmental hazards, and cosmetic issues. It’s important to note that these issues may vary depending on the location, age, and condition of the home being inspected.
Additionally, some buyers may have specific concerns or requirements that may not be covered by a standard home inspection, such as testing for radon gas or checking for lead paint.
d) How can I prepare for a home inspection?
Preparing for a home inspection is important in home selling or buying.
Image credit: techcrunch.com
Here are some tips to help you prepare for a home inspection: clean your home, make necessary repairs, check your appliances, remove clutter, and provide documentation. Remember, a home inspection aims to help you better understand the home’s condition. By preparing in advance, you can help ensure a smoother inspection process.
