What should a construction photo record contain?

Keep the photograph with the task brief, location, person doing the work and review response. “Bathroom finished” gives little context. “First-floor bathroom: grout the floor tiles, including the doorway edge” gives both sides something specific to check.

Decide what needs to be documented before work starts. A completed surface cannot show every detail underneath it. Where a stage will become hidden, arrange a separate review while it is still visible.

Before work: make the brief visible

  • Identify the room or work area using the same name in the brief and photo notes.
  • Record what is included and what is excluded.
  • Add a reference photo showing the relevant area or expected finish.
  • Clarify any uncertainty about materials, scope or price with the other party before starting.

A reference photo helps explain an instruction; it should not be treated as a substitute for the written specification.

During work: record stages that matter

For work that will be covered, such as a pipework stage before wall closure, agree a separate task for that stage. Photograph it while it is visible and describe what the photo shows. Do not assume an image demonstrates dimensions, performance or compliance that it cannot actually establish.

At completion: show the result clearly

Use enough context to identify the area. A wider view helps locate the work, while a closer view can show the relevant finish. Avoid glare, blur and objects hiding the result. If the reviewer cannot see the requested detail, arrange another view or an on-site check.

Example: a tiling completion note

“First-floor bathroom floor: grouting completed around the doorway and skirting. The completion photo shows the doorway edge requested in the brief. Please review that area.”

This describes the submission without claiming that a photo proves the whole installation is technically correct.

How this works in WorkSign

  1. The investor creates a task with a written brief and reference photo.
  2. The assigned tradesperson checks the instruction and completes the work.
  3. The tradesperson submits a completion photo, with an optional comment or voice note.
  4. The investor accepts the result or requests a specific correction.
  5. Both return to the task history for earlier submissions and review decisions.

WorkSign currently uses a reference photo and a completion photo in the task workflow. It does not offer a dedicated multi-stage photo gallery within one task. Use separately assigned tasks for stages you need reviewed.

Before you share a site photo

Check for faces, documents, keys, access codes or other personal information that is not needed to explain the job. Keep copies of important original materials outside the test platform. WorkSign is currently in testing and should not be your only record.

Photos support communication. They do not replace required inspections, measurements or certificates, and WorkSign does not certify an installation or guarantee a legal outcome.