How do I document my belongings before a loss occurs?

A home inventory is one of the most practical steps a homeowner or renter can take to protect themselves financially after a loss. When you file a claim for personal property, you are typically required to provide a list of what was damaged or destroyed, along with estimated values. Having that documentation ready before a loss happens makes the process significantly faster and reduces the risk of forgetting items that should be covered.

The most efficient way to create an inventory is to walk through your home with a smartphone and record a narrated video. Open closets, cabinets, and storage areas as you go. Describe what you see, including brand names, approximate age, and any notable features. A room-by-room video can capture dozens of items in a short amount of time.

For higher-value items such as jewelry, electronics, art, or collectibles, supplement the video with individual photographs and written descriptions. Note the make, model, and serial number where applicable. If you have receipts, appraisals, or purchase records for these items, scan or photograph them and store them with your inventory.

Once your inventory is complete, store it somewhere other than the home itself. A cloud storage service, an email to yourself, or a copy kept at a relative’s home all work. The point is that if your home is destroyed or you are displaced, you need to be able to access the inventory from anywhere.

Update your inventory at least once a year or after any significant purchase. The NAIC offers a free home inventory app (called myHOME) that walks you through the process and stores the information securely on your device. Keeping your inventory current is a small investment of time that can make a major difference when you need to rebuild after a covered loss.