Getting Started
There are many ways to create a home inventory. It may seem hard at first to record information about everything you have in your house, but don't let that put you off. First, decide on the way to make an inventory that works for you. You can do it room by room, category by category (furniture, electronics, etc.), from newest items to oldest or from most expensive purchases to less expensive ones.
Taking Inventory
There are different ways to making your list. You can write everything down in a notebook, for example. Or you can take pictures, writing information on the back of the photos or put information on your computer. If you have a video camera, you can walk through your house filming and describing the contents at the same time. If you have a personal computer, you can download free software that makes creating and keeping a home inventory easy at KnowYourStuff.org. Keep receipts when they are available and note the cost for the item, when you bought it and other information about the make and model. Expensive items like jewelry and artwork may need to be insured separately.
Store a copy of your inventory in a safe place outside of your home, such as a safe deposit box. (If your inventory is electronic, store it on a disk.) That way you'll be sure to have something to give your insurance representative if your home is damaged. Also, whenever you make a significant purchase, remember to add the information to your inventory while the details are fresh in your mind.
