Here are our tips to help you create your own home inventory
Getting Started
Whether you’ve just moved into a new place or you have been there for 40 years, getting started on a home inventory might feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be — especially if you’re organized. Start at one end of your home and go room to room on every floor of your home. Don’t forget spaces like closets, basements, or attics. If you store personal belongings in another location besides your home, such as a storage unit, be sure to include these items in your home inventory too.
Another great way to start is with recent purchases. Record your most recent transactions to kick-off your home inventory and then make your way through your other belongings.
Include Details
The purpose of a home inventory is to document your personal items so that in the event of a fire or other disaster, you have proof of the possessions you have lost — that’s why including as many details as possible is important. For each item you record, note where you bought it, what you paid for it, a description of the item itself and any other relevant details. For electronics and appliances, it’s especially important to include the make and model numbers, along with serial numbers for reference. Serial numbers are usually located on the back or bottom of major appliances. If you have receipts for your purchases, you can include those as well.
Use Technology
Written details are an important piece of creating your home inventory, but a picture is worth a thousand words. Including photos or videos of your home and belongings can help paint a full picture of the things you own. Be sure to label photos or videos based on the item or the room itself. This can help keep things organized.
Store It Safely
After you have completed your complete home inventory, the most important thing is to store it safely. Your home inventory is only useful if you have access to it. We recommend storing a copy of your home inventory outside your home in a secure location such as a safety deposit box. You can also create a digital copy and save this on an external drive or online storage account, such as the iCloud.
Adjust Your Coverage
A completed and up-to-date home inventory clearly depicts all of your belongings and their value. Do you have the proper insurance coverage for all of your belongings? For example, fine jewelry, art, or collectibles that may have increased in value may require special coverage separate from your standard homeowners policy. This is where our insurance agents can help — we can go over your home inventory with you to find the right coverage that fits your unique needs.
As you prepare for spring, make sure you’re really ready for anything with a home inventory. For more information about a new or existing homeowners policy, please feel free to contact us.
