You don't have a home inventory yet? If not, it may be time to make one. Learn about this topic and about the importance of creating a home inventory by reading this article that Archer Cleaning & Restoration Services has for you.
Making a home inventory has many benefits. Not only does it allow you to ease the situation if you ever find yourself experiencing loss due to a fire, flood, or burglary, but it also allows you to make the most of your homeowners or renters insurance. A home inventory consists of a list of your possessions as well as their financial value. If you are interested in this topic, read this article that Archer Cleaning & Restoration Services has for you today.
What Should Be In Your Home Inventory?
Home inventory lists should include more than just your most valuable or prized possessions. You should also include your jewelry, power tools, electronics, musical instruments, etc. In general, you should include as many items as possible that have value.
Go through every room, including your bedroom, kitchen, living room, dining room, basement, garage, etc. Take as much time as you need and ensure you don't miss any items. Smaller items such as clothing and sheets should also be included. Describe each item and be as specific as possible, especially if they are high-end designer products. Write down the brand and the materials each item is made of.
When Should You Create Your Home Inventory?
There is no specific or perfect time to create a home inventory checklist. Many people choose to make an inventory before moving to another house; others like to do it during spring cleaning.
Making a home inventory can take a lot of time. Therefore, the best time to do it is to calmly take the time to check every item and list every item. This can be during a holiday or when you have some free time from work. Also, making an inventory can be done after you purchased expensive furniture, jewelry or went through a home renovation.
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Start With the Big Items
If you don't have much free time to do a home inventory, do it in parts. We recommend you start by listing the bigger items you own. This will help you get started and allow you to make good progress and feel motivated to keep going. Go room by room listing the big items and, later on, you can take the time to list smaller items room by room.
Take Videos and Photos of Everything
The next step is to walk through every room and take pictures of everything. Take videos and photos of each room, making sure you take several photos from different angles. You should take individual pictures of every item, especially electronics, including your washer, microwave, television, stove, etc.
After taking videos and pictures, take the time to download them and save them on a flash drive, USB memory, the cloud system, etc. If necessary, make a second copy of everything and give it to a close friend or family member to keep in case of emergency.
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Enhance Your Insurance Policy
Making a home inventory list helps you identify if you have the correct amount of coverage or if you need more. You may even realize you need extra insurance to cover some of your most expensive items or prized possessions. Make sure to contact your insurance agent to update your homeowner's insurance.
Update Your Inventory Every Year
If you still have the receipt of your electronics or any other item of value in your home, make sure to store them and keep them in a safe space. Also, make it a habit to photograph every receipt, so you have a digital copy.
Update your inventory every year. Add any new item you purchased, and don't forget to list purchases such as flooring or windows, or other elements you added to your home during the year.
Make sure your home is in top condition by hiring a professional to take care of your home. If your home has fire or water damage, contact an expert at Archer Cleaning & Restoration Services. For information about the best restoration services in Polk County, call 888-436-3499 today!