Identify who inspected and why
Record whether the visit was a routine thatcher inspection, survey, insurance request, pre-purchase review or investigation of a specific problem. The purpose affects what was looked at and how much weight the report should carry.
Record areas rather than one generic condition
If possible, distinguish front slope, rear slope, ridge, gables, valleys and chimney abutments. Historic England notes that some of these areas can show wear earlier than the main coat.
Use dated photographs
Photographs are strongest when they can be compared over time. Keep the same viewpoints and link the image set to the inspection date.
Turn recommendations into actions
If the professional recommends monitoring, patching, clearing vegetation, chimney work or another inspection, create an action with the source and target date. Do not leave recommendations trapped inside a PDF.
Keep the report even after work is complete
The before-and-after history explains why a repair was done. Retaining both the inspection and the completion evidence makes the record more useful later.
Source guidance can change. Check the current version and obtain property-specific advice where needed.