1. Prioritize Safety First

Before assessing any damage, make sure the environment is safe. Don’t enter a flooded or fire-damaged building until authorities declare it safe. Protect yourself with the proper gear—gloves, boots, masks—and never risk your health to save belongings.

2. Start Documenting Immediately

Once it’s safe, begin documenting as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the harder it may be to prove that certain damage occurred as a direct result of the disaster. Fast documentation ensures accuracy and clarity for your claim.

3. Take Clear, Detailed Photos

Use your smartphone or a digital camera to take high-resolution photos of:

Structural damage (walls, ceilings, floors)
Damaged furniture, electronics, and appliances
Water lines, mold growth, or smoke stains
Outdoor damage like fallen trees, roofing, and siding

Take multiple angles and include wide shots and close-ups. It’s also helpful to photograph rooms in their entirety for context.

4. Record Video Walkthroughs

In addition to photos, record a narrated video walkthrough of the entire property. Point out areas of concern and describe what you’re seeing. Videos can be especially useful in conveying the severity of damage that static images may not fully capture.

5. Create a Detailed Inventory

Prepare a room-by-room inventory of damaged items. For each item, note:

Description
Approximate value
Purchase date (if known)
Model/serial number
Condition before the event

If you have receipts, warranties, or credit card statements that can support the value of your possessions, include those in your records.

6. Don’t Discard Damaged Items Immediately

Unless absolutely necessary for health or safety reasons, avoid discarding damaged property until your insurance adjuster has had a chance to inspect it. If you must remove items, photograph and catalog them first.

7. Keep a Log of All Communications

Document every conversation you have regarding your claim, including:

Phone calls with your insurance provider
Emails and letters
In-person discussions with adjusters, contractors, or inspectors

Include names, dates, times, and a summary of what was discussed. This information may prove vital if there’s any dispute or delay.

8. Work With a Professional Public Adjuster

Navigating the insurance claim process can be daunting, especially when you’re recovering from a disaster. A licensed public adjuster like Atlantic Adjusting Co. Inc. works exclusively on your behalf—not the insurance company’s. We help you:

Accurately document and evaluate your loss
File comprehensive claims
Negotiate for a fair settlement

With decades of experience, our team ensures nothing is overlooked and that your rights are fully protected.

9. Stay Organized

Store all your documentation—photos, videos, inventories, receipts, and communication logs—in a secure, digital folder. Cloud-based storage like Google Drive or Dropbox is ideal because it ensures access even if your personal devices are lost or damaged.

10. Be Persistent but Patient

Insurance claims can take time. Keep following up and documenting every step. Having thorough records will speed up the process and reduce the chance of disputes. Your calm persistence, combined with professional support from Atlantic Adjusting Co. Inc., can make all the difference.

Final Thoughts

Experiencing a disaster is traumatic enough—don’t let the claims process become another burden. Proper documentation is your best defense. It strengthens your case, speeds up recovery, and ensures you receive the compensation you deserve.

At Atlantic Adjusting Co. Inc., we advocate for you every step of the way. Let our experience, professionalism, and commitment work in your favor when you need it most.

📞 Call us today at (888) 516-ADJUST
🌐 https://atlanticadjustingcompany.com/