If you’ve suffered losses from a natural disaster, a fire, or other type of situation and need help with Texas home insurance claims advice, you don’t have to cope with it alone. If you’re asked to sign a proof of loss form for your insurance company, you should consult with a knowledgeable property damage attorney first to ensure your rights are protected. When submitting a personal property damage claim, keep track of your damages to receive the reimbursement that your policy owes you. 

What Is Property Damage Documentation?

Documenting property damage is the process of documenting evidence of damage to property caused by natural disasters or unexpected events like storms, floods, fires, or accidents. It includes gathering images, videos, repair quotes, and written descriptions of the damage as a record for insurance claims, and legal issues. When evaluating losses, it guarantees accuracy and supports claims for reimbursement or repairs. Property damage must be properly documented to ensure a proper settlement and the full amount of your claim.

Why Accurate Documentation Matters for Insurance Claims

When filing residential insurance claims for damages, detailed documentation helps you receive compensation. It can solve disagreements with your insurance company should one arise. If the insurance company denies your claim or attempts to underpay, proper records enable claim adjusters to analyze damages and a qualified attorney can advocate for you by using your documents. Comprehensive documentation makes the property damage insurance claims process easier.

Guide to Document Property Damage for an Insurance Claim

Best way to photograph property damage for insurance

When you’ve experienced property damage and want to file a claim, videotape each damaged item. You also may want to videotape entire rooms, if possible as well as details. Take crisp, clear photos that are high resolution. Show multiple angles and the scale of items. You want to provide complete, detailed information about your belongings that have been damaged so you make the claims process smoother.

What to include in a property damage insurance report

A thorough property damage insurance report should include your personal information, including your name, contact details, and policy number. Describe what happened when the damage occurred, the date, time and cause with a detailed account of structural issues, as well as your damaged belongings and furniture. Provide supporting evidence like videos, photos, repair estimates, and receipts. If you’ve taken steps to limit further damage, outline these. Include witness statements with their contact information. Attach police or fire department official reports. List expected repair or replacement costs and include estimates from professionals. Keep a log of all communications with your insurer. Having a detailed report may speed up the insurance process.

How to document property damage after a natural disaster

Although experiencing a natural disaster is extremely stressful for you and your family, it’s important to document property damage accurately for insurance claims and repairs.  Detailed documentation to support your property damage claim​ ensures your losses are recorded so they can be shared with insurance adjusters. It can support your application for disaster relief and legal assistance and help you plan repairs. If your items were destroyed, make an inventory list with descriptions and estimated values. 

Mistakes to avoid when documenting property damage for insurance

• Not Acting Quickly: Delays in documenting damage make it more difficult to prove your losses.

• Incomplete Documentation:  Your claim won’t be as strong if you don’t have detailed photos, videos, or descriptions of your damaged items.

• Missing Hidden Damage: If you don’t thoroughly inspect every area and just focus on visible damage, losses may be missed and go unreported resulting in less compensation.

• Not Keeping Receipts: If you don’t save receipts, it will be harder to get reimbursed for repairs, temporary housing, or damaged belongings.

• Missing Key Angles: Taking photos without multiple angles, context, or close-ups makes it harder for adjusters to assess damage.

• Throwing Away Items Prematurely: Disposing of damaged items before photographing them makes you lose important evidence that is needed for successful claims.

• Failing to Document Preventative Steps:  Make sure you document any repairs or it might lead to disputes with insurers.

• Not Keeping a Log of Communication: If you don’t keep track of your communications with your insurer, or are disorganized, it can affect disputes. 

Following these steps ensures your property damage claim is thorough, accurate, and more likely to result in fair compensation.

How long to keep property damage records for insurance purposes

Keep your property damage records for seven years after resolving your insurance claim. Retaining records may protect you if there is a future dispute. You may need them for tax purposes or legal proceedings too.

What to Do If Your Insurance Claim Is Denied

If your property damage insurance claim is denied, review the denial letter to understand the insurer’s reasoning. Evaluate their explanation and compare it to your policy’s terms to find discrepancies. Gather more evidence, to strengthen your case, if possible. Contact an attorney who has experience with property damage claims and appeals, who can negotiate with the insurer for you and file a suit if necessary.  

Can You Remove Property Insurance Claims From Your Record?

You can’t remove property insurance claims from your record once they are filed because insurance companies keep a record of claims through databases to track claims for up to seven years. They use these records to assess risk and determine premiums. However, if you see errors on your record, you can dispute them.

How Property Damage Lawyers Help With Insurance Claims

Property damage lawyers can guide you through the complex insurance claim process. They ensure your claim is filed accurately, review your insurance policy to identify your specific coverage, and gather evidence to support your case. If your insurer offers a low settlement or denies your claim, our skilled attorneys at Grisham & Kendall can negotiate with your insurance company to help get you maximum compensation for damage to your property. If your claim is disputed, they advocate for you during legal proceedings. Contact us at Grisham & Kendall today and allow us to help you secure full compensation for your property damage and recover your losses. There is no fee until we win your case.