Wildfires, hurricanes and tornadoes are just a few natural disasters that can necessitate an emergency evacuation from your home. In addition to food, water and medicine, a good emergency kit should include essential documents. Ideally, a home inventory list would be part of your kit if your property sustains extensive damage. A comprehensive inventory can help expedite insurance claims and speed up recovery. If compiled before disaster strikes, an inventory can provide the added benefit of allowing you to more accurately determine the right amount of insurance coverage you may need.
It's in the Details: What an Inventory Should Include
A home inventory checklist should include a detailed account of all items in your household, from the attic to the basement. Anything you’ve purchased should be on the list, particularly items of value. You’ll want to remember items typically out of sight, such as a home storage area. Also, include items outside the home found inside a garage or shed. Yard items, like patio furniture, should be included too. Making a comprehensive list may take a lot of time and effort, but it can pay off if needed.
Where to Start First
A starting point is a matter of personal preference. You can start with one room of choice and proceed from there or begin with specific items, such as your highest-value, most notable possessions. Here is an essential list of items to include on your checklist:
Rare or irreplaceable items: Jewelry, artworks, antiques, and collectibles.
Electronics: Computers, tablets, televisions, stereo or sound equipment.
Appliances: Refrigerators, stoves, washers and dryers. Also include smaller but possibly costly kitchen appliances, such as blenders or coffee makers.
Furniture: Especially large items, including couches, tables and beds. Take note of lawn or deck furniture as well.
Tools and other equipment: Lawnmowers and other yardwork tools or machinery. Include grills or other outside/deck appliances.
Clothing and accessories: Make note of high-end clothing and shoes you may own.
Details to Include on or With a Checklist:
- Each item’s make, model, serial number, age and estimated value. Be descriptive; the more information, the better.
- Photos or videos of all items.
- Receipts, purchase contracts and appraisals.
Consider using a home inventory app to make the process quicker and easier.
Once you complete the inventory, make copies of the list. If you create a digital copy, back it up online or on an external drive. Give a copy of your inventory to a close friend and/or relative for safekeeping, and place one in a fireproof box if you own one. It’s a good idea to include a complete copy of your updated insurance policy.
As a last task, set up a reminder to keep the list updated and accurate. Note new purchases as you make them or sell or discard items.
Creating a home inventory checklist is key to protecting your property, even when your home might suffer severe damage in an emergency event or disaster. An accurate checklist can help speed up recovery and alleviate stress and confusion during a difficult time. If you experience an unexpected event and need professional disaster restoration, the experts at ServiceMaster DSI can help. We work directly with insurance providers during repairs to help streamline the claims process and provide you with the best customer service experience. To report a home loss, contact our restoration teams today at 844-413-3130.