The best claim evidence is created before the loss. Pre-storm photos, policy review, and saved contractor contacts can make the difference between a clean claim and a dispute.
Document the property before anything happens
Walk the exterior and interior with your phone. Capture the roofline from the ground, ceilings, floors, windows, doors, garage, attic access areas, mechanical equipment, fences, sheds, and any prior repairs.
- Take wide photos and close-up photos.
- Record a slow video walkthrough with narration.
- Save receipts for recent roof, plumbing, AC, mitigation, or remodeling work.
- Back up the photos somewhere outside the phone.
Review your insurance before the forecast turns ugly
Once a storm is named or approaching, it may be too late to fix coverage gaps. Pull your declarations page and check the big items now.
- Hurricane deductible and all other wind/hail deductibles.
- Coverage A dwelling limit and whether it reflects current rebuild costs.
- Water damage, mold, ordinance or law, screen enclosure, and other sublimits.
- Flood coverage, which is usually separate from homeowners insurance.
Line up the right people before you need them
After a storm, every reliable roofer, plumber, mitigation company, and public adjuster gets busy fast. Save contacts before the rush.
- Your insurance carrier's claim reporting number.
- A licensed roofer or emergency tarp provider.
- A water mitigation company.
- A licensed public adjuster you can call before making permanent repairs.
After damage, slow down before signing anything
Emergency mitigation is different from permanent repair. Protect the property, document every step, keep receipts, and avoid signing contracts you do not understand while pressure is high.
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