Disputes are decided by evidence. Contractors who consistently take these seven types of photos are in a much stronger position when a client disputes payment, claims damage, or triggers a chargeback. Document them on every job.
1. Pre-Work Overall
Wide shots of the area before any work — room, exterior, or zone. Establishes the starting condition and orientation.
2. Pre-Work Close-Ups of Existing Damage
Any existing damage, wear, or defect you might later be blamed for. Close-ups with clear visibility. Timestamped so the date is indisputable.
3. Key Phases (Before Cover-Up)
Work that gets covered — framing, rough-in, underlayment, substrate — must be photographed before it's hidden. These are the only record you have.
4. Materials and Labels
Product labels, model numbers, or tags that show what was installed. Supports warranty and scope if questioned later.
5. Completion Shots
Finished work from the same angles as your pre-work shots. Proves what was delivered and in what condition when you left.
6. Invoice-Relevant Photos
2–4 photos that directly support the invoice line items. Attach or link them to the invoice so the client and any dispute process see the proof.
7. One Set, One Place, With Timestamps
All of the above in one job file, with automatic date/time (and ideally location) on every photo. Scattered, untimestamped images are weaker evidence.
TimeFotos gives you one address-based workspace per job and automatic timestamps on every photo — so these seven types become a single, shareable evidence set.
Bottom Line
These seven photo types — pre-work overall and close-ups, key phases before cover-up, materials, completion, invoice-relevant shots, and everything in one timestamped set — protect you from disputes. Make them a habit on every job.