Shooting the record
Protect yourself first
Wear gloves and eye protection, and keep the trip short. Open doors from outside first if you can.
Wide shots of each room
From the doorway, then from the opposite corner.
Visible residue
Orange spray droplets, white powder on sills and floors, canister fragments, with something for scale.
Damage
Broken windows, doors, burn marks or holes.
Belongings
Clothing, bedding, furniture, electronics and food in affected rooms.
The air system
The thermostat setting, the filter and nearby return grilles.
Photo log
| # | Date | Room | What it shows |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Living room from doorway | Overall condition | |
| 2 | Living room window sill | White powder deposit | |
| 3 | |||
| 4 |
Why insurers want it
Adjusters handling tear gas or spray claims need to see the extent of residue, damaged belongings and any structural damage. Photos taken before cleaning show what cannot be seen afterward. Clear numbering and a short description save back-and-forth and help a claim move.
Keep original files with dates and do not edit them. Store copies somewhere outside the phone.
Shot list
- Each room from the doorway and the opposite corner.
- Window sills, floors and counters close up, with a coin for scale.
- Any canister, fragment or spray droplets where found.
- Broken windows, doors or other damage.
- Clothing, bedding, furniture and electronics in affected rooms.
- The thermostat, the furnace filter and return grilles.
- The same views again after cleanup.
After cleanup
Photograph each room again from the same spots once cleaning is done. Before-and-after pairs show the adjuster and landlord what was done and help close out the claim. Name the folder with the address and date and keep it with your other records.
Common questions
Should I photograph items before throwing them out?
Yes. Insurers often accept photos instead of the item itself, but ask before disposing of anything valuable.
Should I record video too?
A slow walk-through video is a good supplement, but numbered photos are easier for an adjuster to reference.
How many photos are enough?
Usually a few per room plus close-ups of residue and damage. Quality and labeling matter more than quantity.
Can a provider take the photos instead?
Yes, and many will, with proper protection. Ask for copies for your records.
Where should the photos be stored?
In a dated folder backed up outside your phone, and shared with your insurer and landlord as needed.
General information for Berkeley, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.