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How Do You Document Wind Damage for an Insurance Claim?

Last updated October 26, 2026

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The short answer

Start with Photos and Video

Begin by photographing the exterior of your home, capturing the entire structure from multiple angles. Then take close-ups of specific damage, such as torn shingles, broken windows, or dented siding. Use a smartphone or camera with a date and time stamp enabled, if possible.

Video can help too. Walk slowly around your property, narrating what you see. This creates a visual record that shows the extent of the damage. Store all files in a safe place, like a cloud drive or a USB stick, and back them up.

  • Take photos before you move or remove anything
  • Capture the same spot from different distances
  • Include a ruler or a coin for scale in close-ups
  • Note the date and time on each photo or video
  • Photograph any temporary repairs you make
  • Save all receipts for materials and labor

List Damaged Items and Their Value

Make a detailed inventory of every item damaged by the wind. For each item, write down the brand, model, approximate age, and where you bought it. If you have original receipts or manuals, attach them to your list. This helps your insurance company assess the claim.

Estimate the replacement cost or actual cash value for each item. You can use online retailers or local stores to get current prices. Remember, the value you assign may differ from what the insurer calculates, but your documentation provides a starting point.

  • List furniture, electronics, and appliances
  • Note the condition before the damage
  • Include items stored in attics or garages
  • Photograph serial numbers when possible
  • Keep a copy of the list for your records

Record the Date and Weather Conditions

Write down the exact date and time the wind damage occurred. If you know the wind speed from a local weather station or a personal weather app, include that. This information helps tie the damage to a specific event, which your policy may require.

If the damage happened during a named storm, note the storm's name. Also, record any other weather conditions, like rain or hail, that accompanied the wind. This can be relevant if your policy covers wind and water separately.

Keep Receipts for Temporary Repairs

After the storm, you may need to make temporary repairs to prevent further damage, such as covering a broken window with plywood or tarping a damaged roof. Save every receipt for these materials and any labor you hire. These costs are often part of your claim.

Do not throw away damaged items until your insurance company has had a chance to inspect them. If you must dispose of something for safety reasons, take photos first and keep a sample if possible. This preserves evidence.

Submit Your Documentation

Once you have gathered all your photos, lists, and receipts, organize them into a clear folder. Submit your documentation to your insurance company as they request. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Follow their instructions for filing a claim.

If you live in Virginia Beach, keep your documentation in a waterproof container. The humid subtropical climate means storms can happen any time, so being prepared helps. A water damage inspection can also provide a professional assessment of the structural damage.

  • Submit photos and videos in the format requested
  • Include your itemized list with values
  • Attach all receipts for temporary repairs
  • Keep copies of everything for yourself
  • Note any conversations with your insurer

Talk to someone now

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Frequently asked questions

How soon should I document the damage?

Document the damage as soon as it is safe to do so. The longer you wait, the more likely evidence will be lost or altered. Take photos and notes immediately, even before you contact your insurance company. This ensures you have a record of the original condition.

What if I don't have receipts for damaged items?

If you lack receipts, you can still document items with photos, serial numbers, and your own estimates of age and value. Look for credit card statements or online order history that show past purchases. Your insurance company may accept alternative proof.

Can I clean up before the insurance adjuster sees the damage?

You can make temporary repairs to prevent further damage, but avoid permanent cleanup until the adjuster inspects. If you must remove debris for safety, take photos first and keep a sample. Cleanup after a storm is often part of the restoration process.

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