A painting inspection checklist does two jobs: it ensures quality control on every coat, and it creates a photographic record that protects you when a client raises a defect claim.
This checklist covers prep through final for interior and exterior painting work.
Pre-work inspection checklist
Surface assessment
- All surfaces photographed before prep starts — GPS-tagged, timestamped
- Pre-existing damage documented — cracks, holes, stains, peeling
- Surface type confirmed — drywall, plaster, wood, masonry, previously painted
- Previous paint condition assessed — adhesion test if recoating
- Moisture reading on wood and masonry surfaces where relevant
Pre-work requirements
- Surfaces clean, dry, and free of grease
- All holes and cracks filled and sanded
- Loose or peeling paint removed
- Primer applied where required
- All masking and protection in place before first coat
Application checklist
Product documentation
- Paint brand, product line, colour code photographed from can
- Sheen level confirmed against specification
- Mixing ratio confirmed if tinting
- Batch numbers noted if multiple cans required
First coat
- Even coverage across all surfaces
- No missed areas, holidays, or drips
- Cut-in clean at all edges
- First coat photographed before second coat applied
Second coat (and subsequent)
- Full cure of previous coat before recoat (per manufacturer spec)
- Even coverage, no lap marks
- All edges and corners checked
Final inspection checklist
- Full photo walk of every painted surface
- No visible drips, sags, or misses
- All trim lines clean and sharp
- All masking removed without damage to adjacent surfaces
- Client walkthrough photographed
- Any touch-up items noted and completed before sign-off
Handover documentation
- Before/after photo pairs for every room or major surface
- Paint codes and product details in handover PDF
- Warranty information if applicable
- PDF report delivered to client
Making this digital
Manifold's required-photo checklists let you build this template once and use it on every job. Each stage requires a photo before it can be checked off. PDF exports automatically. See our best app for painting contractors and field documentation guide.
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