What should a damage report for an insurance claim include?
Short answer. A good damage report gives the date and cause of the loss, an area by area description of what was damaged, dated photos and video, a list of damaged belongings, and receipts for emergency repairs. Keep it factual, avoid guesses about age or prior problems you do not know, and send it in writing so there is a record.
A simple outline
- Header: your name, property address, policy number, claim number if assigned, and contact information.
- Date and cause: for example, hail and high wind on the evening of a specific date. Note any weather reports.
- Exterior: roof, gutters, siding, windows, screens, fences, AC unit, each with a short description.
- Interior: room by room, what got wet or damaged and how badly.
- Belongings: an inventory with item, approximate age, and estimated value.
- Emergency measures: tarping, water extraction, board up, with receipts.
- Extra living expenses: hotel and meal receipts if you could not stay home.
- Attachments: a numbered list of photos, videos and contractor reports.
Photo tips
- Take a wide shot first, then close-ups, so each detail has context.
- Use a coin, tape measure or chalk circle for scale on hail marks and dents.
- Keep the original files; their timestamps help establish timing.
- Photograph damaged items before throwing them out.
Roof damage needs a roofer's report
You cannot safely document a roof from a ladder. A contractor's inspection with slope photos and measurements is the strongest roof section you can attach. Make sure the date of loss matches the storm, and see how to prepare for the adjuster.
Send it so it can be proven
Email or upload through the insurer's portal and keep the confirmation. Update the report if you find more damage later.