When disaster strikes, your insurance company isn’t just going to take your word for it. Documentation is everything. Whether it’s hurricane damage to your roof, destroyed furniture, or lost valuables, the strength of your insurance claim often hinges on what you can prove. That’s why documenting your property—before and after a hurricane—is not optional. It’s essential.
Insurance companies rely on evidence to validate claims. Without it, you may face reduced payouts or outright denials. Start with a thorough pre-hurricane inventory. Photograph each room in your home, including ceilings, floors, major appliances, electronics, and high-value items like jewelry or art. Open drawers and closets. Take wide-angle shots and close-ups. Keep receipts, serial numbers, and appraisals in a digital folder or cloud-based backup.
After a storm, document the damage immediately and thoroughly. Take photos from multiple angles, videos that capture the scope of destruction, and written notes. If safe, revisit the same spots you photographed before the hurricane to create visual “before and after” comparisons. Do not discard damaged items until an adjuster sees them or you’ve documented them fully.
Keep a log of all conversations with your insurer, including dates, times, and what was discussed. Save emails, texts, and phone call summaries. If you hire contractors for emergency repairs or assessments, save every invoice and service report. These records not only support your claim—they protect you from disputes later.
It’s also critical to understand what your policy requires. Some insurers have strict deadlines for reporting damage or providing proof. Missing a deadline—even by a day—could jeopardize your claim. Consult your insurance policy for timelines, and consider speaking to an attorney if your insurer appears to be stalling, denying, or underpaying your claim without cause.
The legal team at Mineo Salcedo Law Firm is well-versed in insurance claim disputes and knows how to guide homeowners through the complexities of hurricane damage documentation. If your insurance company is giving you the runaround, their attorneys are ready to fight for the compensation you deserve. Call 954-463-8100
