Start with three pictures of the damage and a sentence about what happened. A wide shot tells us where the repair is. A close-up and a ruler show what we need to look at.
Take three photos
- Step back and show the whole wall or ceiling. Include a nearby door, corner or baseboard for orientation.
- Move closer and focus on the hole, crack or dent. If you are photographing a crack, include both ends.
- Hold a ruler beside the damage without covering it. For a dent or raised edge, a photo from the side helps show its shape.
Photograph each damaged spot if there is more than one. If you cannot reach it from the floor, send the clearest photo you can take safely.
Describe the spot in one sentence
Name the room and say whether the damage is on the wall or ceiling. For example, “Bedroom wall, hole next to the door handle, about three inches wide.” If you would like the surface painted afterward, mention that too.
Flag water or older paint
Mention a stain, soft spot or known leak and say whether the source has been fixed. If the home was built before 1978, note that. The EPA explains that disturbing lead paint can create harmful dust and points homeowners to certified lead-safe contractors. Leave paint and drywall in place while you take the pictures.
Put your photos, location and description in one message when you ask about drywall repair.