There are many different ways to conduct a home inventory and many benefits that come from doing so.
Not only will you have a list of your belongings at the time of a loss, an inventory can also help you determine how much personal property coverage you should have on your insurance policy.
Here are a few simple suggestions for the home inventory process:
- Start small in a well-organized room.
- Make it a process, not a one-day chore.
- Â Make a written list and take photos and videos.
- Use technology. Search your app store for tools developed for home inventory.
- Keep a copy of your inventory off-site so it isn’t destroyed if your home is damaged.
If you ever have a property loss at your home, you can provide your inventory to your insurance professional. This is especially valuable in catastrophic scenarios, such as a tornado or fire, but can also be crucial in theft claims. Having receipts or appraisals for newer, high-value items, including those in your inventory records, can be very helpful. If you don’t foresee making the time to do a thorough inventory, even a cursory video uploaded to the cloud or sent to and saved by a trusted confidante can expedite settlement at claim time, so try to get this on your to-do list. It is a true investment in your future.
