What To Do, And What Not To Do, When Taking Pictures For The Insurance Company
The coast of Florida sees many hurricanes, tropical storms, and other violent weather. For this reason, homeowners know the importance of having proper insurance that will protect them in the event of a natural disaster. Unfortunately, insurance companies continuously undervalue and deny legitimate claims in an attempt to protect their profits.
It is crucial that you take photographs of any damage to your property after a storm. Photographic evidence can help ensure the claims process goes smoothly, and give you a better chance of obtaining the full coverage you are entitled to. Below, our Daytona Beach residential and commercial property damage lawyer explains what to do, and what not to do, when taking pictures for the insurance company.
Best Practices for Taking Pictures of Property Damage
There is more to taking pictures of property damage than just taking out your phone and snapping away. Some of the best tips when taking pictures are as follows:
- Use a camera that will stamp the pictures with the date and time. This will show when the photographs were taken compared to when the storm hit. When using a cell phone to take pictures, making sure the GEO location data is on can also show the pictures are valid.
- Take pictures from several different views and angles. This will show the full extent of the damage.
- Include any information that identifies the property within the picture. For example, if your roof was damaged during a storm, try to take a picture that shows the numbers on the house. Or, if your car was damaged, include a picture showing the license plate.
- If possible, place a tape measure in the pictures. If your foundation is cracked during a storm, for instance, place a tape measure over the crack to show the full extent of the damage.
What Not to Do when Taking Pictures of Property Damage
Just as there are many tips for taking the best pictures of property damage, there are also many things to avoid. These include:
- Avoid making repairs before pictures have been taken. This includes placing a tarp over the roof. Taking pictures before repairs are made will show the full extent of the damage.
- You may have to make small repairs, such as placing a tarp over your roof or sealing up broken windows. You should make these repairs, or the insurance company may deny your claim because you did not mitigate the damage. Once you have made minor repairs, take photos to prove that you tried to avoid further damage.
- Never try to take pictures that could put you in danger. For example, do not climb onto an unstable roof, or enter any area that seems unstable. Take pictures of these areas from a distance and explain to the adjuster later why you do not have pictures closer to the area.
Our Residential and Commercial Property Damage Lawyer in Daytona Beach Can Help with Your Case
If your home has suffered storm damage, protect yourself and your property by working with a Daytona Beach residential and commercial property damage lawyer. At Bundza & Rodriguez, our skilled attorneys can help you through the claims process and make sure it goes as smoothly as possible. Call us now at 386-252-5170 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0600-0699/0624/Sections/0624.155.html