Tip · Planning
Take five minutes for before photos
The short answer
Before photos give both sides a shared record of visible conditions. Photograph the work area, access route and nearby surfaces from safe positions, then save the files with the date and project scope. Photos support a conversation; they do not establish the cause of hidden damage.
Editorial status: source-checked on 2026-10-07; not reviewed by a lawyer, licensing authority, engineer or trade professional. United States. Licensing, contract and permit requirements vary by state, locality and trade. California sources describe California rules, not a national standard.
Make the pictures easy to understand
Take a wide view for location and a closer view of any existing marks. Label the room and surface. Avoid including people, private documents or neighboring property unnecessarily.
Share concerns before the first day
Ask the contractor to note vulnerable areas and agreed protection in the written scope. Include access restrictions and items to retain or remove. CSLB guidance specifically discusses cleanup and instructions for pets, children and material storage in a contract.
Use the same views later
Repeat the accessible views when a milestone is reached or a concern arises. Keep originals alongside correspondence. Do not cross barriers, climb onto a roof or interrupt hazardous work to photograph progress.
Where renovation may disturb lead paint, photographs do not replace lead-safe precautions. Review the EPA consumer guidance and agree how occupants will stay outside the work area.
Sources
Primary government and consumer-protection sources checked for this guide:
- Contracts and Binding Agreements (California), California Contractors State License Board. Accessed .
- Renovation, Repair and Painting: Consumers, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Accessed .