For small repair and maintenance jobs, a good photograph often does the same job as a visit. This short guide covers how to photograph common minor repairs so an initial quote is accurate, and a visit isn't needed just to establish what's actually wrong.
What makes a repair photo useful
- Show the whole item or area, not just the specific fault
- Include a second angle if the issue isn't obvious from one photo
- Good lighting — natural daylight or the room's lights on
- A brief description of what's actually wrong, alongside the photo
Doors and windows
For a sticking, dropped or misaligned door or window, useful photos include the whole frame from a small distance, plus a close-up of any visible gap, misalignment or damage. If it’s a specific point that catches, mention where.
Shelving and fittings
For a shelf, bracket or fitting that’s come away or needs installing, show the wall or surface it’s attached to (or needs attaching to), including any existing fixing points, and the item itself if it’s not already in place.
Walls and surfaces
For marks, cracks, or damage to walls and surfaces, take one photo showing the whole wall or area for context, and a closer photo of the specific issue. Include something for scale if the damage is small and might otherwise be hard to judge.
A general approach for anything else
For any minor repair job:
Frequently asked questions
Will a photo always be enough, or is a visit sometimes still needed?
For straightforward jobs, photos are usually enough for a quote. For anything unclear, structural, or where the cause isn't obvious, a visit may still be worth arranging.
What if I have several small jobs to quote at once?
Photograph and describe each one separately, even briefly, so nothing gets missed or confused between jobs on the list.
Does it help to include a video instead of photos?
A short video can help for anything with movement — a door that catches, a drawer that sticks — showing the actual problem rather than just its appearance.
Key takeaways
- Show the whole item or area, then a closer shot of the specific fault.
- Good lighting makes a real difference to how useful a photo is.
- A brief written description alongside photos speeds up an accurate quote.
- A short video can help for anything involving movement or function.
See property handyman services or property maintenance and repair, or request a quote with your photos.