There’s nothing like moving — whether it’s across town or across the country — to make you realize just how much stuff you have! When moving, you’re likely to let some things go, but probably also add some new appliances, furniture and other items to your list of possessions. That’s why once you’re settled into your new home, it’s an ideal time to create or update your home inventory. Simply put, it’s a complete list of all the items that you own in your home.
Having an accurate home inventory helps you purchase the right type and amount of insurance. That’s super important. It also can make surviving and dealing with a home disaster a lot less stressful. Can you imagine trying to recount every single item in your home that was damaged, destroyed or stolen? With a home inventory, you’re better prepared for the unexpected. And filing an insurance claim is much easier.
Here are the components of an effective home inventory:
Photos or video. You can take photos or video, but you’ll want shots of entire rooms and close-ups of items such as electronics, jewelry, collectibles, guns and any individual items of significant value. It’s a good idea if you’re using video to provide narration as you walk through each room, explaining what you are recording.
A list of items you own. You’ll also want to prepare a list of your belongings, room by room. You can create a Word document on your computer or use a blank sheet of paper. Keep your images and list with receipts for big-ticket items you’ve purchased.
Safe storage. If you have a fireproof safe, keep your information there or in another safe place. You also may want to keep a copy off-site as well, in a safe deposit box or with a trusted friend or family member. If your written and visual inventory is saved electronically, make sure it’s backed up or stored in the cloud.