In Geneva, a judicial bailiff may be privately commissioned to prepare a factual report. This activity is expressly provided for in Article 1, paragraph 5, of the Geneva law on the profession of judicial bailiff (in French). The report describes facts observed at a particular date. It may concern the condition of a building before work, damage, the contents of premises, the opening of a safe or another specific situation. Photographs and documents may accompany the written report. The bailiff acts impartially and distinguishes personal observations from explanations given by others. When several people attend the visit, their statements may be recorded with the speaker identified. The report preserves a record of a situation that may change or disappear. It can support discussions and be included in a dispute file. It does not determine the outcome of a dispute or, on its own, the responsibility of those involved.