A famous saying goes like this: “Home is where the heart is.”
That saying rings true as the home is a haven to cherish, convene with family and friends, raise children, cook meals, rest, retire, and celebrate. Most will agree a home is not just a pile of bricks and mortar. Instead, a true home comprises much more, including everything inside it.
Aside from family, the things inside your house that make it your home include your furniture and appliances, clothing, sports equipment, and electronic goods. These items are considered personal property, and protecting it all is really important.
How do you protect what makes your house a home?
It begins with an understanding of what you have. If you’re like many people, your home may contain much more personal property than you realize.
The longer you live in your home, the more things you accumulate. It’s smart to occasionally do a home inventory check-up to assess if you have the insurance coverage for all of it. In the event of a fire or other catastrophic event, having it on hand will help settle your claim faster and more accurately.
To get started, go room by room and develop a careful inventory of your personal property following these tips:
- Use a video camera to record and audibly describe items as you move through your home. A standard camera or phone camera will also work great.
- Develop your inventory list. Include brand names and descriptions when possible, especially on high-cost items.
- Keep all receipts on high-dollar purchases. File these receipts and instruction booklets, warranties, etc., that accompany the items.
- Store your video or photo inventory offsite or back it up with an additional drive.
- When you make new purchases, add them to your inventory.
If you have high-value items, check with us so we can review your homeowners coverage to ensure you’re adequately protected. Your home is more than just a house; we are here to help safeguard everything important to you and ensure it is protected outside and inside.
For additional information on how to create a home inventory visit https://www.iii.org/article/how-create-home-inventory.
