TOPIC: Report Writing/Narrative Libriaries

I noticed quite a few of the verbiage was from my template. (Most that I obtained elswhere)

The problem with narrative libraries is the verbiage always looks like cr-p to me.
They are by nature very canned looking and generic.

Take as an example the one you posted Dave.

Improper panel screws.

If reading that in a report I would go (what does that mean?)

My version would be more like Drywall screws used as fasteners may cut into conductor covering and cause safety issue by exposing and conducting live electricity.

Notice how the issue is so specific while the former says nothing.

This is why I avoid on site reports.

I could personally and bear in mind this is my opinion only see using them as reminders with a need to totally go back over and massage in further detail.

Other wise the number of comments needed would take for ever to scroll to unless there was a search as you type feature that I swear I will talk Dom into inventing one of these days ;D

A picture next to Improper Panel Screws with an arrow pointing to them is what I do.

But you have a point in explaining it better as they still may not understand why the screws are improper.

Shortening my verbiage was for in the field use.

Yeah I understand as I sometimes feel obsessed with finding a way to shorten report time.

Every time I decide to try more generic comments the more I hate my own report.

Know what you mean about the picture tie in ,but it still would not tell them in text ,as pictures really do not count when it comes to the punch list.

Another thing I find is we all tend to focus on issues we are used to reporting on. (hope that part makes sense).

Perhaps we could talk better recommendation narratives rather than listing targets.

For instance when I point out a defect i like to back up a reason for whey it is an issue.

Say lack of Weeps


Any building constructed since 1970 should have rubber, plastic or metallic "flashing," a protective skirt that curves around joints to protect against moisture. When water does get through a wall, it collects on the flashing and is released through "weep holes," small openings in the masonry. These holes are most obvious at the top of the foundation wall.
3/16-inch-diameter weep holes every 33 inches at minimum, just above the flashing . Flashing, in turn, is recommended under the first course of masonry at ground level, above windows and doors, below window sills, and at any lintels and shelf angles 

To me that is what a good narrative report will provide .

You could for instance put missing weeps in red for the summery while placing the above explanation in Blue as a second tier Blue comment .


The Black print would be my material comment that would simply state "Brick"

I noticed quite a few of the verbiage was from my template. (Most that I obtained elswhere)

Dave, I just checked the folder that have all of the tpz's that I took narratives from and yours wasn't there. Guys must have gotten narratives from you and I got the narratives from them.  :

Grout not sealed



I recommend the grout be sealed with a silicon based grout sealant as water will penetrate the grout and loosen the wall tile.This can also possibly lead to mold issues.