Had a similar headache last year when I was helping my uncle get his claim sorted after hail damage. We took a ton of pics, but at first it was just close-ups of the dents and missing shingles. The adjuster kept asking for “overall views” and it dragged things out. Once we went back and got shots of the whole roof, then closer angles, it finally made sense to them. Felt like overkill at the time, but honestly, having that photo “story” saved us from more back-and-forth. Guess sometimes more really is better, as long as it’s not just random.
Felt like overkill at the time, but honestly, having that photo “story” saved us from more back-and-forth.
That’s exactly what happened when I tried to get my wind damage claim approved last spring. I thought snapping a few pics of the cracked shingles would do the trick, but nope—they wanted the whole roof, gutters, even shots from the backyard. At first I was kind of annoyed, thinking “how many angles do you really need?” But looking back, it probably helped me in the end.
I’m starting to think insurance companies just want a full set so there’s no wiggle room for debate. It does feel like a pain in the moment, especially if you’re up there with your phone trying not to slide off a wet roof... but it beats arguing with them for weeks.
Funny thing is, my neighbor did the opposite—barely any photos—and his claim dragged on forever. Guess there’s something to be said for “overkill,” as long as it’s organized. Still wonder if there’s a sweet spot between too much and not enough?
I get why folks say more photos help, but I’m still not sold on the idea that insurance needs a whole album every time. Last year, when my ridge vent started leaking, I sent maybe four or five clear shots—close-ups and a couple wide ones. Adjuster came out, took his own pics, and it was sorted in a week. Maybe I just got lucky, or maybe it depends on the adjuster you get. Honestly, sometimes it feels like they ask for more just to slow things down... but who knows. I’d rather risk a little back-and-forth than dangle off a ladder for “just one more angle.”
- I get the “less is more” approach, but after my first claim, I’m Team Overkill on photos.
- Sent in just a couple pics for a gutter issue—adjuster wanted more, then more again. Whole thing dragged out for weeks.
- Now I just snap a bunch from the ground, zoom in, even toss in a selfie for scale (kidding... mostly).
- Not risking another round of “can you send another angle?”—my nerves (and ladder skills) can’t handle it.
- Maybe it’s overkill, but at least I’m off the roof faster.
That’s funny, because I used to be the opposite—just a couple wide shots, thinking, “They’ll get the idea.” Turns out, adjusters want to see every possible angle except maybe from a drone. Last year, when I tried to claim for a leak around my chimney flashing, I ended up sending over a dozen photos. Still got the “Can you get one closer up?” email. My phone’s photo album is 30% roof at this point.
I get why they want so much proof, but it’s nerve-wracking if you’re not great with heights (or ladders that wobble). I’ve even tried using a selfie stick to get those awkward spots without climbing too high—probably looked ridiculous to the neighbors.
Curious if anyone’s had luck with video walkthroughs instead of a ton of stills? Or does that just open up a whole new can of worms with the insurance folks?
