A few clear photos from different angles have saved me more than once.
That’s a solid strategy, especially with those older clay tiles—once they crack, it’s hard to prove when it happened. I’m curious how you organize your photo records. Are you just using your phone’s gallery or a specific app? I’ve run into issues with time stamps getting lost when I transfer pics for multiple properties, and adjusters can get picky about “original file data.” Wondering if there’s a better way to keep everything documented, especially after back-to-back storms.
I’ve run into issues with time stamps getting lost when I transfer pics for multiple properties, and adjusters can get picky about “original file data.”
That’s hit me before too, especially after a couple hurricanes last year. I thought I was being smart, backing everything up to Google Photos, but then realized the metadata sometimes gets stripped or changed when you download or share. One adjuster flagged it and I had to dig out the originals from my phone—total headache.
What’s worked better for me lately is using a cloud service that keeps the original file info intact (Dropbox has been decent for that), and I make folders by property and date. It’s not perfect, but at least I can point to the unedited files if anyone asks. Still, I wish there was a simpler way... juggling pics for five buildings after a storm is no joke.
You’re right about those clay tiles, too. Once they crack, everyone wants to blame it on the latest storm, but if you’ve got dated photos from before, it’s a lifesaver. Just wish insurance folks were less suspicious sometimes.
Losing those timestamps is a pain, especially when adjusters start nitpicking. I’ve had better luck using a dedicated camera app that watermarks the date right onto the photo—kind of old-school, but it’s hard for anyone to argue with what’s literally printed on the image. I also keep a backup SD card just in case my phone decides to eat the originals. Not perfect, but it’s saved me from a few headaches when claims get messy. And yeah, clay tiles are always a battle... pre-storm pics are gold when it comes to proving what’s new damage and what isn’t.
- Love the idea of watermarking pics—never thought of that, but it makes total sense when you’re dealing with picky adjusters.
- I’ve only got basic phone photos so far… kinda worried I’ll regret not having more proof if something happens.
- Clay tiles look great but wow, the upkeep is no joke. I’m just hoping my first storm season goes smooth.
- Backup SD card is smart. Might have to steal that tip.
Clay tiles look great but wow, the upkeep is no joke. I’m just hoping my first storm season goes smooth.
Have you thought about switching to a green or living roof instead? Clay tiles are classic, but honestly, the maintenance and storm risk can be brutal. I get the appeal, but is it really worth the hassle if you’re in a high-storm area? I swapped mine for a sedum mat last year—less upkeep, and insurance adjusters seemed to like the documentation since it’s all new. Just curious if anyone else here’s had luck with alternatives, or is everyone sticking with traditional tiles?