How do I Document Tree Damage for an Insurance Claim in Louisiana?

To document tree damage for an insurance claim in Louisiana, you must prioritize thorough evidence collection before any cleanup begins. Proper documentation is the most critical evidence for your insurer and helps prevent claims from being denied due to a lack of proof.

Follow these specific steps to document the damage:

1. Take Photos and Videos: Use your smartphone to capture clear photos and videos from multiple angles and distances. Include close-ups of split trunks or broken branches and wide shots showing the tree’s position relative to your house, fence, or vehicles.
2. Record Incident Details: Note the specific date, time, and weather conditions at the time the tree fell.
3. Create a Written Inventory: List all affected items and structural harm caused by the tree.
4. Obtain a Professional Estimate: Contact a licensed and insured arborist to provide a detailed, itemized report. This should include the scope of work for emergency tree removal, debris cleanup, and stump grinding.
5. Save All Receipts: If you must perform temporary emergency repairs to prevent further loss (such as tarping a roof), keep every receipt. These may be required for reimbursement under your policy’s additional living expenses (ALE) or debris removal provisions.
6. Leave the Debris in Place: Unless there is an immediate life-safety hazard, do not remove the tree or significant debris until an insurance adjuster has completed their inspection.