The short answer
Start with Safety and Access
Before you document anything, make sure the property is safe. Turn off power and water if there is flooding or standing water. Wear sturdy shoes and gloves, and avoid rooms with sagging ceilings or exposed wires. If you feel unwell or smell gas, leave and call the utility company or a doctor if needed.
Once it is safe, enter each room and note the extent of the damage. Do not move items or start cleanup until you have recorded everything. If the storm is ongoing, wait until it passes. Your safety comes first, and a clear record starts with a careful walkthrough.
Take Photos and Videos
Use your phone or camera to capture wide shots of each room, then zoom in on specific damage. Photograph water lines on walls, soaked carpets, buckled floors, and any items that are wet or broken. Record video as you walk through, describing what you see and the date and time.
Take multiple angles, including shots from across the room and close-ups of damage. Do not delete any images, even if they seem blurry. Include shots of the exterior, such as roof shingles, gutters, or siding, if the storm affected those areas. This visual record is your primary evidence.
If you live in Mesa, keep a written list of your possessions and their condition. That list, paired with your photos, gives the pros a clear picture of the work ahead.
- Capture wide and close-up shots
- Record video with verbal notes
- Photograph the exterior of the home
- Include date and time stamps if possible
- Do not edit or delete any images
List Damaged Items in Detail
Write down every item that was damaged, from furniture and appliances to clothing and documents. For each item, note the brand, model, age, and estimated value if you know it. This inventory helps your insurance company understand the loss and helps the pros plan repairs.
Be as specific as possible. Instead of writing "sofa," write "blue fabric sofa, purchased in 2019, water stains on cushions." Include receipts, warranties, and manuals if you have them. Store these documents in a dry, safe place, such as a plastic bag or a cloud storage app.
Keep All Receipts and Records
Save receipts for any temporary repairs, like tarping a roof or renting a dehumidifier. These costs can be part of your claim. Also keep records of any hotel stays if you had to leave your home. Your insurance company decides what is covered, so having a paper trail is essential.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to understand what documentation is required. If you have questions, ask your insurance company directly. A clear record makes the process smoother for everyone involved.
Work with the Pros for Assessment
After you document the damage, contact local water damage pros for a professional assessment. They can identify hidden moisture, structural issues, and mold risks that you might miss. Their inspection helps determine the full scope of the work, from drying and cleaning to repairs.
The pros will use your documentation to guide their evaluation. They may take their own measurements and photos. You can share your inventory and images to give them a head start. This collaboration leads to a more accurate plan for restoring your home.
If you have extensive damage, the pros may recommend structural repairs or furniture restoration. Your documentation supports those decisions and helps you communicate with your insurance company.
- Share your photo and video records
- Provide your written inventory
- Ask about hidden moisture checks
- Discuss next steps for drying and repairs
- Keep copies of all documents for yourself
Need help right now?
Phones are answered 24/7 for Mesa and nearby communities.
Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
How soon should I document storm damage?
Document as soon as it is safe to enter the property, ideally within 24 hours. Early photos prevent disputes about damage that worsens later. Do not risk your safety for speed. If the area is unsafe, wait and document when you can.
What if I don't have receipts for damaged items?
You can still document items without receipts. Write down what you remember, including approximate purchase dates and values. Photos of the items in your home can serve as evidence. Your insurance company will guide you on what they accept.
Should I document damage before calling the pros?
Yes, document first, then call the pros. Your photos and inventory give them a starting point for their assessment. It also protects your claim if the damage changes during cleanup. The pros will do their own inspection, but your record is valuable.