Homegauge support

HomeGauge Platform Requirements As a home inspector, having the right tools and technology is crucial for delivering efficient and professional services. When using HomeGauge software, you must ensure that your devices meet the requirements for optimal performance. In this article, we'll explore the desktop and companion app requirements for HomeGauge, helping you make informed decisions about your technology needs.Web Report Writer and Inspector DashboardThe Web Writer works on a browser regardless of the device's operating system. It will work as long as the device can connect to the Internet. To learn more about which browsers work best with HomeGauge, you can visit this article titled HomeGauge Web Browser Support FAQ.Desktop Report Writer RequirementsDesktop Report Writer is compatible with Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11. Any new laptop or desktop running Windows 10 will support HomeGauge.Windows Vista, XP, and RT* are not supported. If you use Windows Vista or XP, upgrade to Windows 7 or later to use Desktop Report Writer.*Windows RT is a limited version for some older devices, such as the original Microsoft Surface. Report Writer Desktop will not run on any device running Windows RT.Chromebook does not run the Windows operating system and will not work with Desktop Report Writer.While Desktop Report Writer is incompatible with Mac, running it through a program like Parallels or Bootcamp is possible. For more information about running Desktop Report Writer on a Mac, visit the Desktop Report Writer: Installing on a Mac Computer article.Companion App RequirementsBelow is a list of things to

Android Companion: Using Forms Mobile Forms are a way to complete Forms on the job using HomeGauge Android Companion. This article covers how to add forms to Companion and use Mobile Forms on Companion.System Requirements:Android 7.0 or laterHomeGauge Companion v. 5.3.0.0 or laterHomeGauge Desktop Software v. 5.3.5 or laterThe Mobile Forms feature is only available for Android Companion. This feature is not included in the IOS Companion at this time.How to Cloud Transfer Forms to CompanionTo start using Forms on your Android Companion, you must first transfer them from your Desktop Software. Forms are transferred using HG Services by Uploading Cloud Templates and Settings.Start by opening HomeGauge Software on your computer or laptop.Click HG Services on the main menu. Click Upload Cloud Templates & Settings.Choose a Template to transfer with your Settings, ensure you have the box checked to include PDF Forms, and click OK.Once uploaded, you will be prompted with a success message.How to Use Forms on CompanionOpen HomeGauge Companion AppWhen on a New or Open Report, click MiscOn the Form section, click the right-corner menu and choose Add Form.Choose from the list of Forms to Add; Select a Form and click Open.With the form open, you can edit fields, checkboxes, take pictures, and insert text. The example image has Merge Fields associated with Inspector Contact and Customer Information. These merge fields automatically pull information from corresponding fields in your Software before you send the final report. For more information on How to Set Default information on Forms, see this article: Desktop Report Writer: Using, Installing, and Deleting Forms.To Remove a Form, click the right-corner menu and choose Remove Form.To add additional forms, click the right-corner menu and choose Add Form like Steps 3 & 4. You can switch between forms using the Left and Right Arrows at the bottom center of the Form section.To add a Picture, click on the form button: Choose Picture. This will open your device's camera and allow you to take a photo. Only Forms that have this button already included will allow you to take a picture while inside the form. All other pictures should be added by adding the Form Picture Page with Labels. This form can be appended to any other form when finalizing the report in HomeGauge Software.Note: At this time, you will not be able to Edit the Picture while inside HomeGauge companionImportant! Pictures attached to forms will not re-size automatically in the Software. When reviewing your form in the Software, make sure to edit and re-size each of your photos or click OK for the image to set to the default size before sending.When finished with the report and form, save your work by clicking the right-corner menu,

Or are planning on building a site with us in the future; then there is one main thing you need to do to keep your site up and running: purchase and renew your domain name. Read more about this in the section below.Once your website is complete, we'll give you the login credentials so you can always access your website. However, even if you have previous experience with editing websites, we recommend using our Managed Hosting service so that our developers can make any changes to your site.While we commend people for wanting to make the extra effort, site content is often removed or deleted, or a critical functionality needs to be fixed. Your live site needs to be displayed or work properly. These errors can cost you, potential customers. Fear not, however, as things of this nature rarely break permanently.Website HostingAgain, if you host with us, there's nothing that you need to do. We will connect the wires and ensure everyone visiting your site has a positive and rewarding experience.To compare our different hosting plans, click here for more info.Website DomainThis is significant, as HomeGauge does not maintain or control your domain. HomeGauge is not a registrar, meaning we don't sell or issue domain names and cannot renew them for you. Remember the metaphor above? The domain is the address that allows people to find your website. A great example of a domain is "www.google.com." It's the words that someone types into a browser to see you!Those reminder emails

Consider when purchasing a device with the HG Companion. The list talks explicitly about using them for home inspections, so if you plan to use them for other things, please keep your different needs in mind. One significant advantage of the HG Companion is the ability to include pictures from the device right at the inspection item when taking the photo. While most devices have a camera, many inspectors will still want to use their regular camera to take pictures in dark areas or use the lens for wide / zoom shots.Note: We do not support using an Amazon Kindle or any Amazon-branded tablet as a Companion device. We know the low price can be attractive, but they do not use a standard Android operating system and will not run the HG Companion app. Android Operating System (OS)The HomeGauge Companion is only available on Android version 7 or later.Since earlier versions of Android do not support the latest secure protocols, we recommend that all users upgrade their Android to at least version 7.Android 7 was released in 2017. Most phones produced since 2017 already have Android version 7 (Nougat) or are compatible. Please back up your data and check with your carrier and manufacturer for instructions on upgrading your software.Apple iPhone/iPad iOS VersioniOS 13 and higher are required to use the HG Companion on Apple devices.WeightOf course, the lighter, the better for carrying around all day, but it often comes at the cost of screen size and battery life. Recommendation:

A professional organization like ASHI or InterNACHI is a great way to meet peers who are also committed to high standards. You may also want to prominently display an official or personal Code of Ethics on your website or letterhead to reinforce your ideals.10. Personal networksGood inspectors are excellent at making personal connections. They do this by putting clients at ease and fostering great relationships in their professional communities, including construction pros, past clients, and real estate agents. It inspires trust when you have a whole network of people who respect you and can vouch for your work.Cultivate this trait: Stay active in the building community, and reach out to real estate agents — they’re always looking for good inspectors to recommend to clients. Joining your local Chamber of Commerce is also a good way to meet other small business owners to build connections that could help you grow.Becoming a better home inspectorWhether you’re an aspiring inspector or have been inspecting homes for years, there’s always room to improve your skills, build your business, and develop the personal traits that lead to success. These traits are sought after by home buyers and real estate agents alike, so they’re well worth cultivating. HomeGauge is always here to help you on your journey, with great advice and a robust suite of tools designed just for home inspectors like you.