Things You'll Need:
- Notebook or loose leaf Paper and 3clasp Folder
- 2 blank CD to copy pictures onto
- Digital Camera & Computer
-
Step 1
The simplest way I found to organize your property records is to categorize your items by their room or location. Don't try using item categories, it will be hard to maintain and update. So just use categories such as Large Assets, Garage, Basement, Living Room, Bath 1, and so on. Don't forget hallways and stairs.
-
Step 2
To begin this project you will want to set aside an hour or so after cleaning or straightening up to take pictures of every location in your home. I know, who cares what the agent thinks, but doing this will help focus the attention of the photograph toward the items in the room and not the pile of shoes in the corner.
-
Step 3
You will want your camera set to an indoor icon or setting. Try not to use the flash, using natural room light will give you better results. If you have a multi level home begin in the basement and work your way up. Or attic to basement. Just be sure to get every area.
-
Step 4
When logging a room begin by taking a picture of one wall and then work your way around the room snapping shots. With the digital camera you can flip a switch and see that every item in that room has been included in the photographs. If you missed something or if a item of value is not real clear in the shot take another picture. If there is a major appliance, electronic or other valuable items in that room you will want to take pictures of that item alone; the center of focus in the picture.
-
Step 5
Get out the notebook or folder and paper you got for your log. Write on the top of a sheet of paper one location name, making one sheet for each of your categories. Create columns for item names, date item was bought, purchase price, and the estimated cost to replace the item as of current date(Estimated Replacement Value). Don't fret if you don't know some of the information, estimate. The photographs of your property should be enough information for your insurance company to figure the value of your items. Knowing the purchase price and replacement value is merely for you to know how much homeowners, personal property, or renters insurance you should have to cover your belongings.
-
Step 6
Okay, the easy part is over, now you will want to use the pictures to create a list of your personal property. You can either view pictures while still on camera or download them to your computer. But you will want to look a each picture and list all of the items seen on the appropriate sheet of paper. I suggest individually listing any items values over $50 and group together less expensive items, such as Susie's stuffed toy collection-ERV $100. And don't try listing every article of clothing, just write apparel in item column and come up with the total cost of ones wardrobe. The same goes for towels, sheets and curtains.
-
Step 7
All the photographs taken of your assets need to be copied onto disks. Create one for you to put in fire safe, bank box or relative who lives elsewhere. Make another copy to give to your insurance agent. Update your records every few years, giving your agent a new disk also.
