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How Do I Photograph Storm Damage for Insurance?

Last updated October 19, 2026

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The short answer

Document All Damage Thoroughly

Start by taking overall photos from outside your home to show the storm's general impact. Walk the entire perimeter, photographing damaged roofing, siding, windows, and landscaping. Move inside to document water stains, leaks, and any structural issues. Capture each affected room from multiple corners to establish context before taking detailed shots. It is wise to take these exterior photos before any cleanup begins, as the initial state of debris and damage is valuable evidence. This comprehensive approach helps create a full visual narrative of the event's impact on your property.

Take Detailed Close-Up Shots

For each area of damage, take close-up photos that clearly show the extent. Focus on cracked shingles, dented gutters, broken window seals, or soaked drywall. Use a coin or ruler in the frame for scale if the damage size is not obvious. These detailed images provide crucial evidence for the insurance adjuster's review. Try to take these photos in good, natural light to avoid shadows that might obscure details. Multiple close-ups from slightly different angles can better reveal texture and depth of damage, like the warping of wood or the peeling of paint.

Include Time Stamps and Notes

Ensure your camera or phone records the correct date and time on each photo. After taking pictures, write brief notes about what each image shows and its location in your home. For example, 'north-facing bedroom window leak'. Organize these photos in a digital folder immediately to prevent loss or confusion later. Consider making a separate sub-folder for photos of damaged personal property to keep your documentation orderly.

  • Photograph any standing water or pooling you find.
  • Take pictures of damaged personal belongings and furnishings.
  • Capture images of the storm debris around your property.
  • Document any pre-existing conditions near the new damage.
  • Shoot video clips panning slowly across large affected areas.
  • Include photos of serial numbers on major damaged appliances.

Show Temporary Protective Measures

If you place tarps over a damaged roof or board up broken windows, photograph these temporary repairs. Show the materials used and how they are secured. This demonstrates you took reasonable steps to prevent further damage after the storm, which is often a policy requirement. Keep receipts for any materials purchased for these repairs. Photograph the temporary measures from the same angles as the original damage to show the direct relationship. Also, take a photo showing the overall area with the repair in place to provide context for the adjuster.

What to Do After Photographing

Once you have a complete photo set, contact your insurance company to start your claim. You can upload your images to their online portal if available, following their specific submission guidelines. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Acting quickly after a storm is important to help prevent secondary damage, such as mold growth from lingering moisture. You may also need a water damage inspection for hidden moisture that photos cannot capture. Keep a secure backup of all your photos and notes in at least two separate digital locations in case you need to reference them later.

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Frequently asked questions

How many photos should I take for storm damage?

Take more photos than you think you need. Document every damaged item and area from at least two angles. It is better to have an extensive, organized album than to miss a crucial piece of evidence later during the claims process.

Should I photograph damage inside and outside?

Yes, photograph both the exterior and interior thoroughly. Storm damage often starts outside but leads to water intrusion inside. Document the path of the damage, such as from a roof leak down to stained ceilings and wet floors, to show the full story.

Can I use my smartphone to take the pictures?

A modern smartphone camera is perfectly adequate. Ensure the lens is clean and use good lighting. Hold the phone steady and fill the frame with the damage. The key is clarity and detail, not professional camera equipment.

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