Educational checklist only: This page helps you prepare and organize. It is not legal, medical, insurance, safety, construction, travel, veterinary, or professional advice.
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Initial facts
Write down when the incident happened or was discovered.
Use factual language and avoid guessing if you do not know.
Do not put yourself in danger to take photos.
Follow insurer or professional guidance where needed.
Documents to gather
Policy number, insurer contact, deductible, and claim number if assigned.
Purchase receipts, repair invoices, maintenance records, and replacement estimates.
Before, during, and after cleanup/repair photos can help records.
Emails, texts, phone notes, names, dates, and promised next steps.
Repair and service records
Save versions and note what each includes.
Dates, costs, who did the work, and why it was needed.
Include age, approximate value, photos, and serial/model numbers where available.
Lodging, cleanup, disposal, or emergency purchases may need documentation.
Review reminders
Claim requirements vary by policy and event.
Ask before disposal if evidence may matter.
Use a folder or digital backup.
Use insurer, adjuster, legal, or professional guidance for decisions.
How to use this checklist
Review the items before the task starts, not only at the last minute. Check off what applies, copy the unfinished items if you need a short action list, and save relevant receipts, photos, dates, and contact names in your own records.
Some items may not apply to your situation. Local rules, official guidance, product instructions, building policies, insurance requirements, and qualified professional advice should take priority where they apply.