Everyone should have a home inventory list, whether you own your home or rent having a record of your possessions is important not only for your own reference but also for insurance purposes.

In the event of a fire, burglary, or other disaster you need to have a detailed record of everything you own. Your home inventory should include a detailed list, pictures and a video recording of the contents of your home.

Start by making a list of everything you own. This may take some time but start one room at a time and document everything of value in each room. The list can be made using a simple spreadsheet, document or by using a free app or program on your smartphone or computer. You can also contact your insurance company, most offer free home inventory documents or apps.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners offers a free inventory checklist. https://www.insureuonline.org/home_inventory_checklist.pdf

The list should include the name of the item, a description of the item, make/model, serial number, place of purchase, date of purchase, purchase price, estimated replacement cost and warranty information. You can include any other details that you think are important.

Remember home insurance claim adjusters (and the police in the event of a break-in) will be better able to assist you and process your claim faster if you offer very detailed information about what you lost. 

Keep your receipts and scan them to your computer so you have a digital copy.

Take a photo of each item, include the serial number sticker with each photo and create a video of your home inside and out and of all possessions. Don’t forget your garage, outbuildings, basement, and attic. Label each photo with the name of the item and other relevant information. When recording the video describe what you are recording.

Don’t forget to include things like clothing, jewelry, artwork, collectables, the contents of your kitchen, the things inside your cupboards, linen closets and other small items. If you have appraisal records include those and scan a copy to your computer.

When your list is complete, update it anytime you purchase something new.

Keep a copy on your computer, a printed copy, give a copy to your insurance company and store a copy off site. Backup your computer and smartphone regularly. Consider purchasing a fireproof safe for your home and keep a copy there along with other important documents and run a regular digital backup and keep that in the safe as well.

If you are using an app, be sure you understand how and where that information is backed up. Don’t use an app that does not offer a backup. Phones and computers fail and get stolen, and you don’t want to lose valuable information when that happens.

A homeowners insurance policy will have a specific coverage limit for the contents of your home, having this list will help you determine how much coverage you need.