PROPERTY owners whose insured homes or businesses were affected by Hurricane Melissa are being urged to fast-track the process of documenting damage for insurance claims.

“Time is critical after any disaster, as insurers usually give property owners a window of 30 days to submit their claims. So, it’s important to begin documenting damage and gathering all the necessary information as soon as it is safe to do so,” advised Kerry Scott, head of real estate and properties at JN Properties which manages more than 130 properties across Jamaica.

Scott is cautioning property owners to exercise due care while conducting assessments, especially at properties that were severely damaged. He stressed that safety should always come first during the inspection process, as post-hurricane environments can pose hidden risks.

“Be extremely careful when moving around damaged structures. There may be loose nails, broken glass, hanging wires, or displaced sheets of zinc that can cause serious injury. Avoid entering areas that appear unstable or where there is visible structural damage. If necessary, wait for professional assistance before attempting to inspect those sections,” advised Scott.

He added that property owners should wear appropriate protective gear, such as sturdy footwear, gloves, and helmets when entering affected areas, and avoid conducting inspections in poor lighting conditions.

Scott further advised that property owners should carefully document the extent of the damage.

“Take photographs and videos of the interior and exterior of the building, capturing wide shots and close-ups for specific areas of damage, as this will be critical for insurance purposes and for facilitating repairs,” Scott underscored.

He explained that video recordings can often provide more context than photos alone, as they capture the full scope and scale of the damage.

“Videos can also help insurers and contractors better assess the severity of the impact more accurately. Narrate what you are showing as you record. Point out areas of significant impact and describe what you are seeing. These details strengthen your case with insurers or contractors and help prevent disputes about the extent of the damage,” added Scott.

He also urged property owners to prepare a detailed inventory of all damaged items including brands, model numbers, and serial numbers where possible.

“If you have receipts or warranty documents, gather those as well. Group items into categories such as appliances, furniture, or electronics. This organisation simplifies the claims process and helps prioritise what needs to be repaired or replaced first,” said Scott.

He advised property owners to submit their documentation, including photos, videos, and receipts for temporary repairs, along with their completed claim forms, and to respond promptly to any additional requests from the insurer to avoid unnecessary delays.

Scott further pointed out that an insurance adjuster will schedule a visit to assess the property independently.

“Be prepared for that inspection and ensure that all relevant documentation is available. Cooperation and timely responses can help accelerate the settlement process,” said Scott.

Salem Fishing Beach Vendor Patricia Trail points to holes in the zinc roof of her shop, which roof blew off during Hurricane Melissa. (Photo: Naphtali Junior)