Inside your home are all the sentimental and valuable belongings you’ve spent years accumulating. Fortunately, a standard homeowners insurance policy includes coverage for your personal possessions. But to benefit from this, you will need to tell your insurer everything you own. This requires creating a thorough inventory. The following tips will help make sure this is done correctly.

How to Make a Homeowners Insurance Inventory

1. Make a Written List 

The first step to putting together a home inventory is writing down a list of all your belongings. This should be as detailed as possible and include a description of each item, the year they were purchased, their original sales price, and their serial number. Clothing should be categorized by type, and any especially expensive items will likely need an appraisal so you can purchase endorsements that cover their higher value. Attach as many receipts as you can to your inventory list for verification of how much everything is worth. 

2. Take Photos or Video 

Having a visual inventory in addition to your written list will serve to reinforce your homeowners insurance protection. Take photos and video of each room in your house, as well as individual closets and drawers and more valuable items. On the back of each photo write the same details included in your list. If you make a video recording, narrate along the way, providing pertinent information your insurer will need to know, such as brand names and serial numbers of products, the condition of each item, and any special features that add to the value. 

3. Store It in a Safe Place 

Once your inventory has been completed, you must find a safe place to store it. It’s best to keep copies off your property, such as in a safety deposit box or at a friend’s house, to ensure it isn’t destroyed if your home becomes significantly damaged. Every time you make a new purchase of any value, add it to your inventory right away while the memory is fresh in your mind. 

Preparing a home inventory will not only speed up the process of filing a claim in the event of a loss, but it will also help you determine how much homeowners insurance to buy in the first place. For assistance exploring all your coverage options, don’t hesitate to contact Dewey Beckner with Allstate Insurance Companies. Over the past two decades, he has remained committed to providing High Point, NC, residents with quality products at competitive rates. His experience comparing policies will ensure you receive adequate protection for your unique needs at the best price possible. Call (336) 884-5636 to request an insurance quote, or visit him online for more information.