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Claims Process5 min readJanuary 5, 2026
Documenting Roof Damage for Your Claim
Proper documentation is the foundation of a successful claim. Learn what to capture and how to organize your evidence.
Why Documentation Matters
Good documentation:
- Proves the damage occurred
- Shows the extent of damage
- Supports your claim value
- Helps with disputes
What to Document
1. Date and Time
- Record when you discovered the damage
- Note the date of the storm or event
- Keep weather reports as evidence
2. Wide Shots
- Overall views of roof from multiple angles
- Context showing your property
- Surrounding damage (trees, debris)
3. Close-Up Damage
- Individual damaged shingles
- Dents on vents and flashing
- Missing or cracked materials
- Include a reference object for scale
4. Supporting Damage
- Gutter damage
- Window damage
- Siding damage
- Fence or deck damage
5. Interior Damage
- Water stains on ceilings
- Wet insulation in attic
- Any leaks or water intrusion
Photo Tips
Technical Quality
- Shoot in good lighting
- Keep camera steady
- Take multiple shots of each area
- Use highest resolution available
Composition
- Include reference objects for scale (coin, ruler)
- Capture identifying features (address, landmarks)
- Show damage from multiple angles
- Include before photos if available
- Walk around entire property
- Narrate what you're showing
- Include date/time verbally
- Capture sounds of water intrusion if applicable
Video Documentation
Organizing Your Documentation
Create a folder structure:
- /Photos/Roof
- /Photos/Gutters
- /Photos/Interior
- /Videos
- /Documents (weather reports, receipts)
- Document immediately after discovering damage
- Capture both wide shots and close-ups
- Include supporting evidence beyond just the roof
- Organize files clearly for easy reference
Key Takeaways
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