Create a Home Inventory Record
October 2024Keeping a detailed record of everything you own protects you in the event of theft or major damage. Learn how to create your Home Inventory.
It's Time to Do a Complete Home Inventory
October 2024
This year, add another item to your New Year’s resolutions: conduct a home inventory. The best part about this one is it’s pretty easy to check off your list. January represents the perfect time to do it because you may have just added a big-ticket gift or two to your home during the holidays.
Cataloging your valuables can really help simplify the claims process. It can make it a lot easier to assess the value of specific items. So what sorts of things are we talking about? You’ll want to include anything of notable value or significance.
Record the following sorts of items:
- Appliances
- Electronics
- Furniture
- Art
- Jewelry
- Collectibles (e.g., coins, stamps)
- Silver
- Fine china/dishes
- Tools
- Sports equipment
- Musical instruments
Download our fillable Home Inventory workbook
Tips for Simplifying the Process
For help getting started, take a look at our Create a Home Inventory Record video. It covers the basics of creating your record and why it matters.
Then, when you’re ready, download or print our Home Inventory Record workbook to simplify the effort. It will take you through the sorts of considerations you’re likely to encounter as you complete this smart planning step.
An easy way to capture it all is to simply go room by room and video all of your valuables, recording your description of each item or taking notes as you move along. Try to include the estimated value of each item where you can. If you happen to have receipts or serial numbers or know purchase dates, include those too. If it seems like this is just too much of an organizational challenge, consider using one of the home inventory apps available online that can walk you through the process.
Talk to Your Independent Agent
If you’re like a lot of people, you’re probably not sure which of your belongings are actually covered by your current insurance. Or maybe you once made a list, but it’s out of date.
Undertaking an inventory will give you critical information to share with your agent. Show them your itemized list. Talk about what your options are for protection. It’s all about ensuring that your most prized possessions are covered in the event of damage, loss, or theft―and that you can recover faster if something does happen.
Get Started with Your Inventory
Now that you know all you need to know about a home inventory, why not tackle yours today? Then you can cross that resolution off your list with the confidence that you’re doing everything you can to protect what matters most to you, and
that’s a great way to start the year.
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