Let’s face it: the only time you’re likely to need an inventory of your home’s contents is after a disaster. It is during the most stressful time that you will be glad that you took the time to accurately record what you owned.
While the old school method of recording – simply creating a written register of your belongings – still works, there are other ways to create an inventory.
Photographs
Just about everyone has a camera on their telephone these days, meaning that just about everyone has easy access to all they need to create a home inventory. It really is as simple as it sounds. Move from room to room, snapping pictures of your belongings. Upload those pictures onto your computer and create a file that can be kept in a lock box or other safe place.
The great thing about individual photos is that you can focus on high priced items like jewelry, electronic equipment and family heirlooms. You can also take close ups of important items in order to better show their unique value. While it might be difficult to properly explain what a particular piece of jewelry looked like, a photo will do the job.
Don’t forget to include the everyday items, like linens, children’s toys, and kitchen utensils. These are all things you will need to have replaced in the event of a catastrophe.
Video
Those same cameras that take photos frequently have a video option. If not, borrow a video recorder from a friend and move through your home to create a real-life look at your possessions. As you would have done with the camera, take special care to show the items of special value. Your production doesn’t have to be professional, just accurate. Stop and start the video as often as you need to in order to arrange items in a way that makes them easy to see.
Make sure to keep the video inventory in a secure place like a safe deposit box.
Back Up
It is helpful if you have receipts for the big ticket items you have purchased. Simply make a habit of filing receipts away in an easy-to-find fire proof box.
The bottom line is that you hope you will never be in a situation where an inventory is needed. If you do, though, you’ll be ready. For more information on how to protect your home and family, visit Gant Insurance Agency Inc.
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