Build one dated evidence folder
- Timeline
Discovery time, weather or event context, source stopped or still active, who was notified, and temporary steps taken.
- Photo set
Doorway overviews, closeups with scale, serial numbers, water lines, cracks, smoke patterns, or suspect materials from a safe distance.
- Materials and contents
Room-by-room list of what got wet, cracked, stained, or smoke-affected, plus stored belongings against damaged surfaces.
- Money trail
Estimates, receipts, lodging, equipment, testing, and emergency work—kept separate from final contractor marketing brochures.
| Damage type | Extra records that usually matter |
|---|---|
| Water | Drying logs, source repair invoices, moisture readings |
| Mold | Source correction notes, containment photos, clearance definitions |
| Foundation | Crack photo dates, drainage notes, engineer letters if any |
| Asbestos | Survey scope, lab results, manifests, clearance package |
| Fire/smoke | Contents inventory, HVAC notes, odor-control method |
What this package cannot do
Documentation improves clarity. It does not decide coverage, replace policy language, or authorize unsafe DIY work. Use emergency services for immediate danger and qualified professionals for inspection, testing, engineering, abatement, or remediation.