Whatever the cause of your loss, the quality of your documentation often determines the outcome of your claim. Here's a practical guide to documenting property damage so nothing gets overlooked or disputed.
How to document damage step by step
- Photograph everything — wide shots and close-ups, from multiple angles
- Take video — a walkthrough narrating what you see
- Document before cleanup — capture the damage in its original state
- Keep damaged items — don't discard them until they're recorded
- Build a contents inventory — item, age, and estimated value
- Save all receipts — emergency repairs, lodging, and expenses
- Record dates and details — when the damage happened and what caused it
- Keep a communication log — every call and email with your insurer
What homeowners commonly miss
The most overlooked items are hidden damage (inside walls, under floors, in attics), collateral damage (gutters, vents, screens, HVAC), and the full contents inventory. These gaps are exactly where claims get underpaid.
A public adjuster documents the loss the way an insurer expects to see it — thoroughly, professionally, and completely — which is the best protection against an underpaid claim.