They say a picture is worth a thousand words. But a picture can be worth a thousand dollars.
Taking the right photos the first time saves you the BIG headache of returning to projects in progress multiple times. It also prevents delays in depreciation being released on the back end of the job.
Take a look at the three most costly mistakes that contractors make when taking insurance photos and submitting claims to the adjuster.
Mistake #1: Not Taking Enough Photos
Adjusters require visual proof of damage — they need to be able to paint a complete picture of the scope and extent of the damage. Using photos makes your life easier when showing an adjuster what has been missed on their initial report.
Providing photos with your supplement estimate will help avoid many time-consuming arguments about why labor and materials should be paid.
Pro Tip: If you are using Xactimate® for your estimates, add photos directly at the end of the report. This prevents multiple emails to insurers and avoids photo rejection from their servers.
Mistake #2: Not Showing the Big Picture
Adjusters require visual evidence of damage, including the specific location, the size of the affected area, and a count of materials (such as window screens).
A good photo provides the adjuster with the necessary information to promptly approve supplemental claims, as it clearly shows the location on the property and the extent of damage to the materials.
Check out the examples below. These are two photos from the same project:
The photo above does not provide enough context for the adjuster to answer these questions:
- Where is the actual damage on the downspout?
- What is the length of the downspout? Is this building two stories or four stories?
- What elevation is this downspout located in the event there is a re-inspect?
Photo documentation like this will likely result in delays or outright denial of the material item you are working hard to get paid.
However, a good picture like the one below will save you time and money and show that there are additional items beyond downspout repair:
This photo proves that:
- The downspout reaches the second story
- A two-story high charge is necessary
- A cornice return strip exists and must be accounted for
- Ladders with jacks and extra labor are warranted to repair the cornice return strip area
- As this is a multi-family dwelling, line items for additional caution/safety items and labor for set-up and take-down should be paid
Without the context photo of the front elevation of this building, it would be an uphill battle with the adjuster to get the downspout paid for. And, the context photo just caught some $$ that would have been left on the table had you not proved it to be two stories, cornice returns, and the HOA situation.
Yes, I hear ya, the adjuster may have a similar photo on file, but by providing a good photo with annotations, you can show exactly what should be paid.
Mistake #3: Attaching too many photos with your estimate
Submitting an excessive number of photos can overwhelm adjusters, who often have multiple claims to process. Overloading them with hundreds of photos can complicate their review process and may lead to delays in evaluating your supplemental estimate, potentially frustrating the adjuster.
Adjusters are professionals with responsibilities similar to ours, and they appreciate efficiency. Providing only the necessary photos that accurately document the specific line items in your claim can foster a positive relationship with the adjuster and facilitate a smoother negotiation process. This approach not only reduces stress but can also lead to more favorable financial outcomes.
Consider refining your photo documentation strategy—effective, carefully selected photos can significantly enhance the payout and streamline interactions with adjusters. Start implementing these changes today and observe the positive impact on your negotiations.
Bonus Tips
#1: Standardize the Photo Process
Developing a standardized checklist for taking photos ensures that you capture all necessary details consistently, minimizing the risk of missing out on potential compensation. Always follow the same sequence when taking photos.
Establish a routine—don’t reinvent the wheel!
#2: Use CompanyCam to Send Reports to Insurance Adjustors
Want an easy way to share project photos with context? CompanyCam has you covered with photo reports. The Photo Reports feature allows you to compile and send detailed photo documentation directly to insurance adjustors. With CompanyCam, you can:
- Keep all your project photos neatly sorted by project, date, or whatever works best for you.
- Include notes and descriptions with each photo, so every detail is clear and nothing gets lost in translation.
- Quickly generate reports that look professional and include all your photos and notes.
- Send these reports directly from the app, making communication with insurance adjustors a breeze.
CompanyCam saves you time, reduces misunderstandings, and helps ensure the insurance adjustors get the clear, detailed information they need.
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About the Author: At XM8 Mastery, we specialize in training your team to quickly and efficiently use Xactimate to maximize insurance supplements. Learn how you to give your company the advantage during adjuster negotiations using Xactimate as a tool.
In addition to training, we are here to provide continued support and assist you with industry-related issues to keep.
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