Claim guide

How to make a home inventory before you need it

By Carl Browning, independent adjuster, 15+ years

A home inventory is a record of what you own. Built before a loss, it can save hours of guesswork and help you remember items you'd otherwise forget.

Go room by room

Start with one room. Open closets and drawers. List each item with a short description, brand, approximate age and value.

Take photos and video

A slow walkthrough video with narration is quick and very useful. Photograph serial numbers on electronics and appliances.

Keep receipts and records

Save receipts, appraisals and manuals for higher-value items.

Store it off-site

Keep a copy in the cloud or with a family member, so it survives a fire or flood.

Update once a year

Pick a date, such as when you change smoke detector batteries, and add new purchases.

Education only. 24SevenClaims LLC is not a public adjuster and does not give legal advice or coverage determinations. Your policy and claim facts control.