Why Claims Get Denied
Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts. The most common reason for denial? Insufficient documentation. "Photos don't clearly show the damage." "No proof this happened when you say." "Evidence could have been altered." Avoiding these common evidence mistakes is what separates approved claims from denied ones. Good documentation answers these questions before they're asked.
What to Capture
The Documentation Checklist
Capture IMMEDIATELY: before cleanup, before repairs, before anything changes
Document every room or area affected, even if damage seems minor
Record date, time and location with every photo, and certify it for an independent timestamp
Take more than you think you need: you can't go back
Don't move or clean anything before documenting
Add notes describing what you're looking at
Strong Evidence ✓
- ✓ Independent timestamps
- ✓ Location recorded
- ✓ Original files
- ✓ Complete coverage
Weak Evidence ✕
- ✕ Editable metadata
- ✕ Photos taken days later
- ✕ Edited images
- ✕ Incomplete documentation
Filing the Claim
When you submit, include: a chronological photo/video report, independent timestamps where possible, a written description of what happened, and an itemized damage list with supporting photos. The easier you make it for the adjuster to say yes, the faster your claim processes.
