Announcement Text
.png)
Manifold is a field documentation app for contractors that functions as a field inspection platform. It captures GPS-tagged, timestamped photos automatically, supports photo-required inspection checklists, works offline, and exports structured PDF inspection reports. It starts at $16/user/month with no seat minimums.
This guide covers field inspection software for contractors — what it needs to do, how different inspection types use it, and how to produce inspection records that hold up.
Field inspection software has three jobs: capture what was inspected and photographed at each point, record the finding against a structured checklist, and produce an output the inspector, client, or regulator can act on without visiting the site.
The failure mode is apps that allow inspectors to mark items as passed without photo evidence. A completed checklist without photos is an assertion, not a record. Field inspection software is only useful when every inspection item is locked until photo evidence is attached.
Documenting existing conditions before work starts — the baseline record that protects against damage disputes. Relevant for renovation contractors, landscape contractors, roofing, restoration, and virtually every trade that works in or around existing structures.
Inspection at a defined construction stage — pre-drywall, rough-in, pre-pour, post-frame. Photos taken before materials are covered establish what was installed. Used by GCs, subcontractors, and owner’s representatives.
Clearance checks, waterproofing verification, product installation confirmation. Used by fireplace contractors, coating contractors, waterproofing subcontractors, and others with code-mandated inspection requirements.
Condition documentation before and after tenancy. Used by property managers. See the property management inspection guide.
Before/after documentation on service calls. Used by security contractors, garage door contractors, duct cleaning contractors, and other field service trades.
Build a custom checklist for the inspection type. Each item can require a photo before it can be marked complete. Walk the inspection, photograph each point, mark complete. Export the PDF — it contains the completed checklist with GPS-tagged, timestamped photos at each item.
For spatial context, Orbit Measure captures a measurable 3D model of any space on any iOS or Android phone in 60 seconds. Useful for documenting mechanical room layouts, damage extent, or installation environments.
Photo plan — $16/user/month: GPS photo timelines, photo-required inspection checklists, PDF reports. No seat minimums.
Photo+Scan plan — $24/user/month: Everything in Photo plus Orbit Measure 3D scanning.
Free trial, no credit card required. Start your free trial or book a 15-minute demo.
Field inspection software captures what was inspected at each point, records findings against a structured checklist with photo evidence, and produces a PDF report. Manifold provides GPS-tagged, timestamped photo-required checklists and one-tap PDF export from $16/user/month.
Field inspection software is designed for verifiable documentation: GPS tagging, server-side timestamps, photo-required items, and structured PDF output. A general checklist app records responses without verification. The difference matters when documentation needs to hold up in a dispute, inspection review, or insurance claim.
Manifold works fully offline. Inspectors can complete checklists, capture photos, and add notes without any data connection. Everything syncs when connection is restored. Essential for job sites, basements, and commercial properties with poor signal.
Compare Manifold
Real pricing, honest comparisons. No spin.