How Do You Document Wind Damage for an Insurance Claim?

Take extensive visual evidence as soon as it is safe to do so. Capture wide shots that show the overall damage to your roof, siding, or yard, then take close-ups of specific problems like broken shingles or cracked windows. A video walk-through can provide helpful context. Do this before moving debris or making temporary repairs to preserve the original scene for your insurer.

Document the interior of your home as well. Wind can force rain through damaged areas, leading to water stains on ceilings or walls. Photograph any wet spots, damaged personal belongings, and the paths water took. Thorough documentation is crucial following storms that bring high winds and rain.

Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage after the storm. This might involve placing a tarp over a hole in the roof or boarding up a broken window. Your policy likely requires you to mitigate further loss. Keep every receipt for materials or labor used for these emergency protective measures, as these costs are often reimbursable under your insurance coverage.

Do not perform permanent repairs before the insurance adjuster has inspected the damage. Temporary fixes are meant only to stop the situation from worsening, such as preventing more rain from entering. Permanent repairs could complicate the claims process. If significant water entered, contacting local water damage pros for drying services may be necessary to protect your home's structure.

• Save all receipts for tarps, plywood, and hardware.
• Keep invoices from any temporary repair services.
• Document the dates and times of all protective work.
• Note why each action was necessary to prevent more damage.
• Take 'after' photos once temporary measures are in place.
• Separate these receipts from those for permanent repairs.

For complex damage, a professional assessment can be valuable. Water damage pros can provide detailed documentation of moisture levels and hidden damage within walls or ceilings caused by wind-driven rain. Their reports can serve as independent evidence for your claim, especially if there is a dispute about the extent or cause of the water intrusion following the storm.

If the wind damage has compromised your home's structure, you will need qualified contractors for repairs. Do not rely solely on the insurance adjuster's assessment for major structural work. Obtain written estimates from professionals for the necessary repairs to ensure your home is restored safely and to its pre-damage condition.