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How to Create a Home Inventory for Insurance Claims

When disaster strikes, having a detailed home inventory can make the difference between a fully paid claim and leaving money on the table. According to a 2021 survey by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), homeowners who experienced total losses typically forgot to claim 20% of their possessions simply because they couldn't remember everything they owned.

Think about that for a moment.

In a $100,000 personal property claim, that's $20,000 worth of items never claimed or reimbursed. While most people remember their expensive electronics, jewelry, and furniture, it's the smaller items that often slip through the cracks.

Here are three effective methods to create a comprehensive home inventory:

1. Digital or Paper Log

  • Create a spreadsheet stored in the cloud
  • List items room by room
  • Include purchase receipts, especially for valuable items
  • Don't forget the smaller items: How many pairs of socks do you own? Kitchen utensils? Books?
  • Update regularly as you make new purchases

2. Photographic Documentation

  • Take clear photos of each room from multiple angles
  • Photograph serial numbers of electronics and appliances
  • Open drawers and cabinets to show contents
  • Capture clothing in closets, including shoes and accessories
  • Document garage and storage areas thoroughly

3. Video Walkthrough

  • Narrate as you film, mentioning quantities and brands
  • Open every drawer and cabinet
  • Zoom in on valuable items and their serial numbers
  • Describe items in detail, including purchase dates if known
  • Pan slowly across bookshelves, kitchen items, and closets

Remember, the small things add up quickly. Consider that a typical kitchen might contain:

  • 30+ utensils at $3-5 each
  • 24+ dish towels at $5 each
  • 40+ spices at $4-8 each
  • Multiple sets of dishes and glasses
  • Small appliances like toasters, coffee makers, and blenders

When creating your inventory, be methodical and thorough. Store copies in multiple locations: cloud storage, email, and with a trusted family member. Update your inventory annually or when you make significant purchases.

Don't wait until it's too late – start your home inventory today. The hour or two you spend now could save you thousands of dollars if you ever need to file a claim.

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