Having a complete home inventory is crucial for protecting your assets in case of fire, theft, or natural disasters. A well-documented inventory helps ensure you receive full compensation from your insurance provider. One of the best ways to make your inventory more effective is by including video documentation. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating a home inventory that covers everything an insurer might need. 

Why You Need a Home Inventory 

A home inventory serves as proof of ownership, helping you: 

-Accurately file insurance claims. 

-Determine the right amount of coverage for your belongings. 

-Speed up the claims process in case of loss. 

-Provide documentation for tax or estate purposes. 

Step 1: Choose a Home Inventory Method 

There are several ways to organize your home inventory: 

Home inventory apps – Apps like Sortly, Encircle, or Nest Egg help categorize and store digital records. 

Spreadsheets – A simple Excel or Google Sheet can be used to log item details, including value and receipts. 

Notebook & Folder – A handwritten inventory can be paired with printed receipts and photos stored in a safe place. 

Step 2: Go Room by Room 

Organizing your inventory room by room ensures that you don’t miss anything. Start with the most valuable or high-risk items, such as electronics, appliances, and jewelry, and then move on to everyday household items. 

What to Record: 

-Item name 

-Description (brand, model, serial number) 

-Purchase date & location 

-Estimated or actual value 

-Receipts or appraisals (if available) 

Step 3: Take Photos and Videos 

Visual documentation adds extra credibility and proof of ownership. Here’s how to do it right: 

Taking Photos: 

-Capture close-ups of high-value items. 

-Photograph model numbers and serial labels. 

-Group items together for context (e.g., a bookshelf with all its contents). 

Recording a Video Walkthrough: 

-Walk slowly through your home, recording every item. 

-Verbally narrate details about expensive belongings. 

-Capture the condition of furniture and fixtures. 

Step 4: Store Your Inventory Securely 

Your home inventory should be protected to ensure it’s accessible when needed. 

-Save to Cloud Storage – Use Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud for easy access. 

-Keep a Physical Copy – Store printouts in a fireproof safe or off-site location. 

-Share with a Trusted Person – Consider sharing a copy with a family member or insurance agent. 

Step 5: Update Regularly 

Your home inventory is only useful if it remains accurate. Set a reminder to: 

-Update it annually. 

-Add new purchases as you acquire them. 

-Remove old or donated items. 

Final Thoughts 

Taking the time to create and maintain a home inventory can save you significant stress and financial loss in the future. By including photos, receipts, and especially video documentation, you provide the most compelling evidence for insurance claims. If you haven’t started your home inventory yet, now is the perfect time to begin! 

Visit us online at WestenMutual.com