In 2025, California enacted Assembly Bill 2801 (AB 2801), setting a new legal standard that significantly changes how landlords handle security deposit deductions. Starting April 1, move-out inspections must include timestamped photos taken before and after cleaning or repairs. By July 1, move-in inspections require the same photographic evidence. Simply put, no documentation means no deductions.
This law shifts the burden of proof onto landlords. To legally withhold any deposit funds, landlords must now provide timestamped photos, repair receipts or invoices, clear justifications showing damage exceeds normal wear and tear, and a full deduction statement within 21 days. Failure to meet these requirements can result in forfeiting the right to deductions and potential penalties.
AB 2801 And Software for Property Inspectors
Although California leads with AB 2801, other U.S. states like New York, Oregon, Washington, Massachusetts, and D.C. are expected to follow suit. Globally, jurisdictions like the UK, Australia, Germany, and Canada have already integrated photo-based inspections into their rental regulations or best practices. This shift makes photo documentation a necessity, not an option.
Modern inspection software platforms are essential to meeting these standards. Key features include:
- Photo-first inspections tied directly to lease data
- Automatic timestamps and geolocation tagging on every image
- Customizable checklists by property type or region
- Integrated receipt and deduction logic for transparent reporting
- Instant report generation for tenants, legal teams, and auditors
- Secure cloud storage ensures data integrity and easy retrieval
SnapInspect’s inspection software stands out in this space by offering all these capabilities and more. Notably, it provides powerful features such as merged inspection reports with up to three comparison panels, enabling side-by-side reviews of condition over time or between units.
Other features that differentiate SnapInspect include:
- Highly customizable checklists
- Mobile inspection app with offline capabilities
- Integrated costing and damage estimates linked directly to reports for actionable financial planning
- Scheduled Reminders and follow-up tasks
For property managers, asset owners, and inspection teams, adopting inspection software like SnapInspect helps ensure compliance with evolving laws like AB 2801, reduces disputes, and improves operational efficiency.
Now, Some Rapid Fire Q&A:
SnapInspect and Compliance with Modern Inspection Standards
How does SnapInspect support compliance with AB 2801 and similar laws?
- SnapInspect’s mobile inspection app automatically timestamps photos and stores them securely with geolocation data, meeting the photographic evidence requirements. Custom checklists ensure inspections align precisely with local laws.
Can SnapInspect consolidate multiple inspections into a single report?
- Yes, one unique feature is SnapInspect’s ability to create merged reports with up to three comparison panels, ideal for reviewing changes over time or comparing multiple units.
Does SnapInspect support make-ready, move-in, and move-out inspections?
Absolutely. SnapInspect centralizes all phases of inspections in one app, making turnover management smoother and more transparent.
Is SnapInspect customizable for different property types and regions?
Yes, it offers extensive customization of checklists and workflows to adapt to multifamily, vacation rentals, or single-family units across different jurisdictions.
What benefits does SnapInspect’s cloud storage offer?
Secure cloud storage ensures that all inspection data is safe, organized, and easily accessible for audits, legal reviews, and tenant communications.
Using inspection software that aligns with current legal requirements is no longer optional for property teams—it is critical for protecting revenue and maintaining tenant trust. SnapInspect provides a comprehensive, user-friendly platform designed to meet these challenges head-on.