Room · Car & home
Car or home. First photos, then paper.
After a bump or a leak, the first hour matters. Here is what to capture and what to write down.
Situations that come up a lot
Fender bender
Photos from a few angles, other driver's details, a report number if there is one.
Cracked windshield
Often covered differently from a collision. Check the glass wording.
Water leak
Photos of the source and the damage. Stop more damage if it is safe.
Storm damage
Photos with dates, and the list of what was lost.
Questions people ask here
Do I need photos before an estimate?
Photos help either way. We show what your policy says about proof and where.
p. 31
p. 31
Do I need an estimate first?
Some insurers ask for an estimate and some send their own adjuster. Your policy or claim form says. Ask before you pay for a repair.
What is a deductible for car or home?
The amount you pay first on a claim before the policy pays. It is on your declarations page.
How soon must I report it?
Many insurers want a prompt report. Check the notice section of your policy.
Is a burst pipe covered?
Sudden water damage is often covered, but wording differs. We look for the water damage section of your policy and show the page.
Actual cash value or replacement cost?
Actual cash value pays what the item is worth now. Replacement cost pays to replace it. Your declarations page says which you have.
Papers to gather
- Photos with dates
- Repair estimate or invoice
- Police or incident report number
- Receipts for urgent repairs
- Declarations page of your policy
- A list of damaged items
A deadline, as an example
Your dates are in your own policy and letters.
Example
Day 0
The day it happened.
Day 1
Many insurers want a prompt report. Check yours.
Day 365
Some policies set a one-year limit on lawsuits or claims. Check the page.