Ready to move in? Get ready to create a home inventory

Do you have a home inventory? Having an accurate list of your personal belongings can help you file an accurate and timely claim should your home be damaged, destroyed or burglarized. While you’re moving into a new home, it’s a great time to create or update your family’s home inventory.

It doesn’t have to be fancy. You can take photos or video of your belongings, but you’ll want shots of entire rooms and close-ups of items such as electronics, jewelry, collectibles, guns or any items of significant value. It’s a good idea if you’re using video to provide narration as you walk through each room, explaining what you’re recording.

You’ll also want to prepare a written inventory of your belongings. Include receipts, serial numbers or any other identifying information. Use a blank sheet of paper or a worksheet like this one from the National Association of Realtors. There are many choices of home inventory apps as well. You can find a list of apps at this link or you also can ask your insurance company if they have one — many insurers have their own home inventory apps.

If you have a fireproof safe, keep both your visual and written inventories there or in another safe place. You also may want to keep a copy off-site as well, in a safe-deposit box or with a trusted friend or family member. If your inventory is saved electronically, make sure it’s backed up.