"If there’s no picture... it didn't happen"
The HMI Pro Tips series has been created to provide our member network best practices to use when processing an HMI referral to maximize the value of your membership. HMI is proud of the fact that leading insurance companies rely on our program to ensure their clients have access to certified arborists and professional crews when they need emergency tree removal services.
Members in our network play an integral role in making the HMI program the quality standard for structured storm response.
This edition of Pro-Tips reviews the minimum requirements for photographs on every HMI referral you receive. Inadequate photos are a leading cause for files being rejected and thus reimbursement delays. It's also one of the simplest requirements to meet.
Don't forget, you can upload pre-labeled photos before leaving the job site property via our HMI Connects app!
Step 1 – Before Tree Removal
Photograph the site before removing any trees. Include clear pictures from multiple angles that illustrate the size (diameter, height, crown width) of each tree and what structures the tree is on.
It is mandatory to photograph any access issues or hazards that will impact the scope of work. Also photograph any pre-existing damage to driveways, fences, or other structures.
Requirements include:
- Front of House: Minimum 1;
- Jobs up to $5,000: Minimum 8;
- Jobs up to $10,000: Minimum 15;
- Jobs over $10,000: Minimum 20+;
- Jobs $15,000+: Minimum 25+ and an additional photo for each additional $1000 added.
Step 2 – During Tree Removal
Photos taken during work are required whenever a job involves extensive rigging, large crews (6+), and/or specialty equipment such as cranes, grapple trucks, aerial lifts, loaders, etc. When billing separately for any equipment, a picture of that equipment is required.
Step 3 – After Tree Removal
Provide a minimum of 4 photos showing all cleared structures. There should be at least one photo of each installed tarp after work has been completed.
Summary
By following these steps, you will not only ensure a smooth approval process with HMI, but also set yourself up for success and help expedite payment for your professional services. Contact HMI with any questions by email or phone.
Below please find additional explanations for how to take good photos.
Photograph Specifications: Please consider the subject matter when photographing in a vertical (portrait) or a horizontal (landscape) orientation.
Subject: Use vertical orientation for objects that are taller than they are wide, such as tall trees. Use horizontal orientation for wide scenes, such as landscapes with downed trees, and damage to a house or structure.
Composition: Vertical orientation emphasizes shape and form, so please eliminate extraneous details. Horizontal orientation requires keeping both foreground and background subjects close together.
Resolution: The level of detail in a photograph determined by the number of pixels it contains. Higher resolution means more pixels and results in sharp, detailed images. Use the highest quality setting on your camera.