BPO Photo Requirements: The Complete Shot List

Photos are proof you were there and the foundation for your condition comments. Vendors vary slightly, but this list covers what almost every BPO form expects.

Exterior orders

1. Front of the subject, straight on, the whole house in frame.
2. Address verification: house number, mailbox or a clear number on the building.
3. Street scene left and street scene right.
4. Across the street, to show what the subject faces.
5. Any visible damage or issues: roof, siding, windows, debris, vehicles, overgrowth.
6. Side angles if visible from public property.

Interior orders (add these)

1. Every bedroom and bathroom.
2. Kitchen, including counters and appliances.
3. Living and dining areas.
4. Mechanicals: furnace, water heater, electrical panel if accessible.
5. Basement, attic or garage if present.
6. Close-ups of any damage, leaks or repairs needed.

Tips that prevent revisions

• Shoot from public property for exteriors. Never enter a yard without authorisation.
• Keep photos level and in daylight where possible.
• Label photos exactly as the form asks.
• If a photo is impossible (a gated property, a dog in the yard), say why in the comments.

Difficult properties

For gated or hidden properties, photograph the gate, the address and the best view available, and explain. Reviewers accept a documented obstacle; they reject a missing photo with no note.

Read next: how to write BPO comments that pass review.