One of the most crucial measures you can take to ensure a successful homeowners insurance claim after a storm, flood, or fire strikes your home in St. Petersburg, FL, is documenting the damage accurately. How you gather and display evidence will directly affect your payment size and speed.
This Is How You Properly Record Property Damage and Make Your Case for Payment
1. Begin with Safety Above All Else
Make sure it is safe before you go into your house after a disaster. Look for dangers like exposed wiring, gas leaks, or structural damage. Should it be needed, phone the local authorities or utilities suppliers. Start recording when you are authorized to enter.
2. Shoot Crisp, Thorough Shots
Capture close-up and wide-angle pictures of every damaged area, both inside and outside, with your phone or camera. Grab the next:
- Damage to the roof, missing shingles, or leaks
- Walls, ceilings, or floors damaged by water
- Shattered doorways or windows
- Furniture and appliances that have been damaged
- Structural problems, including tilted walls or fissures
If at all feasible, take images from several angles and in suitable illumination. Use a ruler or a domestic object to show the depth if there is standing water.
3. Make Thorough Recordings of Your Videos
Another effective tool for recording the degree of your damage is a video walkthrough. Narrate what you see and emphasize particular problems as you move slowly from room to room. This might capture details that photographs overlook and offer adjusters a comprehensive view.
4. Make an Inventory List
List all items in your house broken or ruined, including:
- Name and description of the object
- Brand/model (if known)
- Estimate of Value or Replacement Cost
5. Keep Injured Goods as Far as Practicable
Keep objects in a safe location or take close-up pictures before disposal if you need to get rid of them for safety or cleanup. Insurance adjusters might want to examine the physical evidence.
6. Time Is of Great Importance; Do Not Delay.
Most insurance claims must be submitted by Florida residents within certain deadlines. Note the damage right after the incident and contact your insurance as soon as possible. Waiting could lower your chances of a full payment.
This post was written by Kelly-Ann Jenkins of Jenkins Law P.L. Kelly-Ann is an insurance claim Lawyer. The information on this site is not intended to and does not offer legal advice, legal recommendations, or legal representation on any matter. Hiring an attorney is an important decision that should not be based on advertising. You need to consult an attorney for legal advice regarding your situation.
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