These days, we find ourselves at home more often, as many of us continue to implement social distancing guidelines to protect the wellbeing of our communities. Because of this, you may find yourself spring cleaning a bit earlier this year. As you pare down on items, now is the time to take note of what you own. After all, in the event of property damage, this can be very helpful when you prepare and file a property damage claim.
How to preemptively prepare for a property damage claim.
How to Create a Home Inventory
We would be remiss if we suggested that homeowners create a home inventory, then not offer advice on how to do so. You will find that the hardest part is getting started, but start you must. Below we have listed tips on how to create your home inventory.
- Pick an easy spot to start–Contained areas, like your washroom, kitchen pantry, or any type of closet, is a great place to get started. This way you are starting small and building and won’t become overwhelmed at the size of the total task of creating a home inventory.
- List recent purchases–Another great way to start is with recent purchases. Get into the inventory habit and then go back and tackle your older home contents.
Include the basic information–Describe each item, and note where you bought it, the make and model, what you paid and any other detail that might help in the event you need to make a homeowner loss claim. 
- Count clothing by general category–For example, “5 pairs of jeans, 3 pairs of sneakers…” Make note of any especially valuable items.
- Record serial numbers–Usually found on the back or bottom of major appliances and electronic equipment, serial numbers are a useful reference.
- Check coverage on big-ticket items–Jewelry, art, and collectibles may have increased in value and may need special coverage separate from your standard homeowner’s insurance policy. While you’re making your home inventory list, this is the perfect time to make sure you have adequate insurance for these items before there is a loss.
- Don’t forget off-site items–Many homeowners don’t realize that your belongings kept in a self-storage facility are covered by your homeowner’s insurance too. Make sure you include them in your inventory.
- Keep proof of value–Have a safe place to store sales receipts, purchase contracts, and appraisals with your list.
- Don’t get overwhelmed – Once you’ve started your inventory, keep going even if you can’t get it all done immediately. It’s better to have an incomplete inventory than nothing at all.
By using these tips and creating a proactive home inventory, as a homeowner you will feel so much better once this task is completed. If you have questions about your home inventory, have a home insurance claim you need help with, or just want to get to know us, call us today.
Our licensed public adjusters and estimators will help you in more ways than one, so here’s why you’ll want to enlist a professional to help you before filing your claim:
- We know exactly what to look for. Chances are this is your first time filing a claim and you won’t possibly remember what’s in every drawer, closet, or attic. Since 1908, we’ve assisted many satisfied clients with their claims, and know what common items are key to include that are often missed! We’ll help you fill in the gaps by meticulously combing through photos, lists, and properties while fully documenting all damages.
- We know how to properly value your items. When it comes to true depreciation value, there are many factors to consider, and you will likely lose money by undervaluing your items if focusing solely on their age.
- We know how to avoid the roadblocks. Many people will try to use old receipts as proof, and although they are a great source to help you remember what specific items you owned or places you shop, they likely will lose your money if submitted erroneously in the claims process.
- We know how best to craft your story. Your claim is much more than an itemized list, as countless hours of research, proof, and full documentation are required in a specified format. Our public adjusters and estimators tell the story behind the damages by correctly documenting items and advocating on your behalf, from start to finish, to attain a fair settlement.
There are many important steps to help you get a head start, but the most important one after experiencing property damage will be calling a public adjuster first. As always, our public adjusters at Aaraya Claims are here and are ready to help you get the best possible settlement for your residential or business property damage claim, so that you can recoup the full scope and amount of your losses safely, efficiently, and when you need to most!