After a storm, homeowners naturally want to begin cleaning up as quickly as possible. Broken branches need to be removed, water needs to be extracted, and damaged areas may require emergency protection. However, starting cleanup without first documenting the property can create problems during the insurance claim.
Photos and videos provide a visual record of the property’s condition immediately after the storm. This evidence can be particularly valuable when damaged materials must later be removed or repaired. Once the roof has been tarped, water has been extracted, or debris has been cleared, it may become much harder to demonstrate what the property originally looked like.
Start with exterior photographs. Document the roof where it can be done safely, gutters, siding, windows, doors, fences, garages, sheds, and other structures. Photograph fallen branches or debris and any visible signs of hail or wind damage. Never climb onto a damaged roof simply to obtain pictures. Professional inspections can provide additional documentation when necessary.
Next, document the interior. Water stains, wet flooring, damaged drywall, ceiling discoloration, and damaged belongings should be photographed before cleanup whenever possible. A public adjuster near me in Chicago may recommend additional inspections when there are indications that water has traveled into concealed areas.
Videos can provide useful context because they show how different areas of the property relate to each other. Walking through affected rooms while recording can create a broader record of the loss. It can also help demonstrate the overall scale of the damage.
Good documentation should also include information about emergency repairs. For example, if a contractor installs a temporary tarp to prevent additional rain from entering the home, photograph the damaged area before and after the temporary work. Keep the contractor’s invoice and any written explanation of the work performed.
Insurance companies evaluate claims based on policy terms and supporting evidence. When there is limited evidence of the original damage, disagreements about the extent of repairs can become more difficult to resolve.
A public adjuster can review photographs, contractor reports, estimates, and other records to determine whether additional documentation is necessary. Taking the time to create a detailed visual record immediately after a storm can strengthen the claim and provide important evidence if questions arise later.
