A key part of home insurance is providing coverage for your personal property. After a covered event, like a fire, your policy will help you replace items that were destroyed in the incident. However, to get coverage for damaged, destroyed, or stolen possessions, you will need to provide an inventory of your covered belongings. Fortunately, doing a home inventory in advance can streamline things if you ever need to file a claim.
1. What Goes Into Your Home Inventory?
Your home inventory should include everything! This ensures that you won’t forget any items when filing a claim. A thorough home inventory will help you maximize your claim. An inventory should include a brief description of the item (even something as simple as “10 t-shirts”). When possible, it also helps to include each item’s estimated value and purchase date — especially for more valuable items. Some valuables may require additional coverage beyond your normal policy.
2. How to Make a Home Inventory
You have several options to create a home inventory. You could make a written list or use an inventorying app. Taking photos or a video can also streamline this process. Electronic inventories should be kept in the cloud, while physical copies should be stored somewhere outside the house. This way, you won’t lose your inventory in a disaster. Going through the house room by room can help you stay focused and ensure you don’t miss anything. Don’t forget to check the drawers!
With a home inventory, you will have an easier time staying organized and submitting a claim if you suffer a loss. By streamlining the claims process, you can more quickly get the financial help you need to get your life back in order.