Common Mistakes In Storm Damage Photo Documentation

Strong documentation is the key to successful insurance claims after a storm. But even experienced professionals make mistakes that can delay or derail payouts. Whether you're a contractor, adjuster, or homeowner, these errors are surprisingly common — and avoidable.

📸 Most Common Storm Documentation Mistakes

1. Missing Wide Shots for Context

Close-ups are important, but without wide shots showing the structure or property zone, adjusters may struggle to place the damage in context.

2. No Before Photos

If available, always include photos of the undamaged condition. Many claims are denied simply because there's no reference point proving change or loss.

3. Lack of Timestamps

Photos need clear date/time data to show when damage occurred and when repairs began. WorkFotos embeds this automatically.

4. Skipping Documentation of Temporary Repairs

Tarping, boarding, drying — if you're billing for it or using it to stop further loss, document it clearly with photos and notes.

5. Not Labeling the Photos

Without labels or tags (e.g. "living room ceiling leak" or "back fence blown over"), your photo set becomes difficult to interpret for reviewers.

6. Overcrowded, Unorganized Reports

Dumping 100+ unorganized photos into a shared folder wastes reviewer time. Instead, use tools like WorkFotos to organize by zone, phase, or status.

7. Fuzzy or Low-Quality Images

Blurry photos lack credibility. Use good lighting, take steady shots, and ensure the detail is visible.

Don’t Let Sloppy Photos Cost You

Insurance claims are business transactions, and poor photo documentation puts you at a disadvantage. The good news? Every one of these mistakes can be solved with a better photo process — and the right tool.

👉 Use WorkFotos to capture, organize, and deliver storm damage photo reports the right way