How to document property damage before cleanup or repairs.

Educational guide for documentation context

Why documentation matters first

The hours right after damage are chaotic. You want to stop the water, cover the roof, or clear the debris. But taking photos first creates a record that helps contractors understand the scope and helps you describe the event accurately ? whether you file an insurance claim or not.

Before you touch anything

1. Take wide shots of every affected room from multiple corners. Stand in the doorway and capture the full room.
2. Photograph the source if visible: the broken pipe, the roof leak entry point, the appliance that failed.
3. Capture standing water: include a reference object like a coin or tape measure to show depth.
4. Photograph water lines on walls and baseboards ? these show how high water reached.
5. Document materials: wet drywall, buckled flooring, swollen cabinets, stained ceilings.

Close-up detail shots

• Visible mold patches (with a size reference)
• Cracks in walls, ceilings, or foundations
• Roof damage: missing shingles, dented vents, granule loss in gutters
• Electrical panels or outlets near water (safety first ? do not touch)
• Damaged personal property: furniture, electronics, appliances, rugs

After mitigation starts

Once the source is stopped and water extraction begins, continue documenting. Photograph the drying equipment placement, removed materials (cut drywall, pulled carpet), and any exposed framing. These photos show what was done and what remains to be repaired.

Organizing your photos

• Create a folder on your phone or computer named with the date and damage type
• Do not delete blurry photos ? they may still show useful context
• Email yourself a backup set of the most important images
• If you upload them to PCG for assessment, Caro will analyze visible damage patterns