Commercial Property Claim Documentation Checklist for Texas
A printable list of the records to gather after a commercial or multi-building property loss in Texas.
Commercial property losses
Organize by building and by date.
Keep originals, keep everything the insurer sends, and keep one master log.
- Checklist
- Photos
- Records
Organize records by building and by date, keep originals, and keep everything the insurer sends. Tick off each group below as you gather it.
Policy and claim papers
Damage and repairs
Income and tenants
Contact and communication log
Print this page or copy the table into a spreadsheet.
| Date | Person and company | Method | Summary | Follow-up |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Safety and preservation
Do not enter unsafe buildings. Before you discard damaged materials, photograph them and tell the insurer in writing. Keep samples if they may matter to the claim.
About my background
Before I practiced law, I spent years on the property side of insurance claims. I was previously licensed and worked as a public adjuster, roofing contractor, home inspector and contractor, and I inspected and estimated large residential and commercial properties with many buildings. I also served as an appraiser, an umpire and a retained witness in first-party insurance disputes. I never worked for an insurance company.
Today I'm an attorney licensed in Texas and Alabama. I'm also a Florida mediator, but I don't practice Florida law. Every case is different, and no result can be promised.
Other states. The rules for a property in another state can differ. I am licensed to practice law in Texas and Alabama only, and I do not practice Florida law.
Frequently asked questions
What should I photograph first?
Start with anything that may be repaired, removed or changed soon, then work building by building, labeling each photo with the building, unit and date.
Do I need the full policy?
Yes. Ask for a complete certified copy, including declarations, all forms, endorsements and schedules.
How do I track costs across many buildings?
Use one spreadsheet or log with a line per invoice, tagged by building and date, and keep the receipts in matching folders.
How long should I keep the records?
Keep them at least until the claim and any dispute are fully resolved, and ask your lawyer and accountant about longer periods.
Can I share the checklist with my property manager?
Yes. This checklist is general information and can be shared.
Related pages
Michael P. Bowman is licensed to practice law in Texas and Alabama only. The firm's office is in Austin, Texas; the firm does not have a bona fide office in Alabama. Law Office of Michael P. Bowman PLLC (The Claim Attorney), 7903 Entrada Cove, Austin, TX 78730. (512) 352-9937. Last updated October 29, 2026.
General information, not legal advice. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Responsible attorney: Michael P. Bowman, Austin, Texas.
