Documenting damage for a home insurance claim

The first steps of a home insurance claim are to record the damage and list what was damaged. You'll hand that list to the adjuster, so the more complete it is, the smoother the claim goes.

Before you clean up

• Call your insurer or agentStart the claim right away. Ask whether they want anything specific photographed.
• Photograph and video each damaged roomStart with a wide shot from the doorway, then move in on each damaged spot.
• Record the damage up closePhotograph water lines on the walls, scorch marks, holes and broken glass, with something in the frame for scale, such as a tape measure.
• Note the date and timeWrite down when the damage happened, or when you found it.

The list of damaged property

• List every damaged item, room by roomGo through each room in order so nothing is skipped.
• Add the brand, model and ageFor appliances and electronics, photograph the label with the model and serial number. A home inventory made earlier saves this step.
• Note what each item costIf you have no receipts, work from memory and look through photos taken inside the home.
• Look up replacement pricesSearch online retailers for what each item would cost today. Save a screenshot of each price with the date.

Keeping the evidence

• Keep the damaged itemsDon't throw anything away until the adjuster has seen it. If something has to go for health or safety, photograph it first.
• Make only the repairs that stop more damageCover a broken window or shut off a leaking pipe, for example. Don't make permanent repairs until the insurer says to.
• Save every repair receiptKeep them in one folder, or under one email label for the claim. Add receipts for hotel stays and meals if you can't live at home.

When the adjuster comes

• Be there for the inspectionWalk through the house with the adjuster so nothing is missed.
• Hand over the list and the photosGive the adjuster a copy and keep your own.
• Get the adjuster's contact detailsAsk for a phone number and an email address, and the best time to reach them.