Start by Duplicating the Global Template
Learn why duplicating the Global Template is the recommended starting point in inspectagram and how it helps you save your SOPs, agreements and company settings for future inspections.
Why This Matters
Many inspectors assume they need to build a custom template before they can start using inspectagram.
In most cases, that is unnecessary.
The Global Template was designed as a ready-to-use starting point and already contains the structure needed for most inspections.
The template covers approximately 99% of the components typically encountered during a property inspection. Additional observations, specialty items and unique situations can be documented using General Notes or Extra Pages when needed.
Because the foundation is already built, most inspectors can begin inspecting immediately and customize their workflow over time rather than building a template from scratch.
Understanding Templates and Jobs
A template is a reusable blueprint used to create inspections.
A job is an individual inspection created from a template.
When you create a new inspection, inspectagram generates a job based on the template you selected.
Changes made during a job generally apply only to that inspection.
Changes made within a template can be reused on future inspections created from that template.
This is why most inspectors duplicate the Global Template before making customizations.
Recommended Approach
Duplicate the Global Template before customizing SOPs, agreements or company settings. The Global Template can be used immediately and is fully functional. However, creating your own duplicate allows you to save customizations for future inspections instead of reconfiguring them on individual jobs.
Why We Recommend This
Most inspectors eventually need to:
- Link SOP and disclaimer references
- Configure agreements
- Add company information
- Adjust jurisdiction-specific settings
Making these updates in a duplicated template allows them to be reused automatically on future inspections.
The Global Template can still be used as-is, provided you complete any required SOP and agreement configuration before performing client inspections.
Step 1: Open the Template Library
From the Dashboard, select the Library icon located to the left of the red + button. The Template Library contains the templates used to create future inspections.
Step 2: Locate the Global Template
Review the Global Template and familiarize yourself with its structure. The template already contains the framework needed for most inspections and serves as the recommended starting point for new users.
Step 3: Duplicate the Template
Create your own copy of the Global Template. Give the duplicated template a name that identifies it as your working version. The duplicate becomes your template while the original Global Template remains unchanged as a reference.
Step 4: Configure Your Settings
Update any settings that apply to your business, including:
- SOP and disclaimer links
- Agreement settings
- Company information
- Jurisdiction-specific requirements
- Other template preferences
These changes will be available on future inspections created from your template.
Step 5: Complete a Practice Inspection
Create a practice inspection using your duplicated template. Review the report output, verify your settings and confirm everything appears as expected before using the template with clients. As your workflow evolves, you can always return to the Template Library and make additional updates.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Building a Template From Scratch Too Early
Most inspectors can begin much faster by modifying the Global Template rather than creating a new template from the ground up.
Expecting Job Changes to Update Future Inspections
Changes made during a job do not automatically become part of your template. Update your template if you want those changes available on future inspections.
Skipping SOP and Agreement Configuration
The Global Template is functional immediately, but inspectors should still ensure their SOP references and agreement settings are configured appropriately before performing client inspections.
Skipping a Practice Inspection
Testing your template before using it with clients helps identify any adjustments you want to make.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Global Template without duplicating it?
Yes. The Global Template is fully functional and can be used immediately. However, most inspectors duplicate it so their customizations can be saved and reused on future inspections.
Why should I duplicate the Global Template?
Duplicating creates a working copy that you control while preserving the original template. It also allows future inspections to use your saved settings and preferences.
Can I customize the duplicated version?
Yes. The duplicated template is intended to be customized for your business, SOPs, agreements and jurisdiction requirements.
Should I build a template from scratch?
Most new users should start with the Global Template. It already contains a comprehensive inspection framework and can be customized as needed.
When should I update SOP and contract references?
After duplicating the template so your updates can be reused on future inspections.
Key Takeaways
- The Global Template is ready to use immediately
- A template is a blueprint while a job is an individual inspection
- Duplicating the template allows customizations to be saved for future inspections
- Most inspectors customize a copy rather than building a template from scratch
- The template already covers approximately 99% of common inspection scenarios
- General Notes and Extra Pages can be used for items that fall outside the standard inspection structure
Next Step: Duplicate the Global Template, configure your settings and complete a practice inspection before using it with clients.
