Documenting storm damage: the photo checklist insurers wish everyone followed

Claims move at the speed of evidence. Homeowners who document well get inspections scheduled faster and argue less about scope. The whole job takes about 30 minutes with a phone.

Before anything is touched

• Wide shots of every side of the house, including the fence, shed, cars and AC unit.
• The roof from the ground using your phone's zoom - every slope you can see. Binoculars help.
• A narrated video walkthrough: walk the property and the inside, saying what you're seeing and the date.

The detail shots

• Hail dents with a coin or ruler in frame for scale - gutters, downspouts, vents, AC fins and the mailbox are the clearest evidence.
• Window screens and glass: hail leaves a signature pattern here even when the roof damage is subtle.
• Siding chips and cracks, especially on the storm-facing side.
• Interior ceilings, walls and the attic - any stain, drip or daylight.
• Fallen trees and limbs, with something in frame for size.
• Damaged personal property before you throw it out. If you must discard it, photograph it and keep a sample.

The paperwork habits

• Write down the date and time the storm hit, and save a screenshot of a local weather report from that day.
• Keep a simple log: who you called, when, what they said, claim number.
• One folder (physical or in your phone) for every receipt - tarps, repairs, hotel, supplies.
• Photograph damage before tarping or temporary repairs, then again after. Both matter.

Once this is done, you're in the strongest position to talk to your insurer and to contractors. When you're ready for repair estimates, you can join the update list - our directory is live in 26 metros, and your choice helps us prioritize additions. Browse city pages to contact listed businesses directly.