How to Inventory a Household

Inventory the rooms in your house systematically so you miss nothing.

If you have the misfortune to be in the path of a disaster, it's one less burden to bear to know that you have insurance that covers your valuable possessions. Individuals conduct household inventories for insurance purposes. Inventories are a way to get a clear assessment of the value of the property in your household. Relying on your memory in a time of misfortune can mean that you forget important things. Keeping good records means you will get accurate reimbursement if you ever need it.

Things You'll Need

• Lined notebook with pockets
• Still or video camera

Instructions

1. Write the name of each room on top of individual pages in your lined notebook. Use terms like "Living Room" or "Lucy's Bedroom." You may choose to use a pre-printed form instead of the notebook. Download a pre-printed form like the one at the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences that the Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends (see Resources).

2. Record or estimate the value of each item. If you remember, record the purchase date, purchase price and a description of the item.

3. Walk in a clockwise circle in each room, recording all the valuables in the room.

4. Remember to inventory any closets or storage areas in each room.

5. Photograph or videotape high-value items, unusual items and antiques.

6. Videotape the entire room, focusing on high-value items, unusual items and antiques. State what they are when you focus on them.

7. Make two copies of your records.

8. Store one copy of your inventory in your home and one copy in a different location. You can store your inventory at a relative's house, at your workplace or in a safe deposit box.

9. Update your inventory yearly.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are doing the inventory for an insurance company, it may request specific additional information such as the estimated depreciated value for your goods.

• Include all items in your inventory, including CDs, DVDs, clothing and shoes.

• Insuring your property for the replacement cost instead of the actual cash value can make a great difference if you ever need to use the insurance. Almost all goods depreciate, so if your insurance company compensates you for the depreciated value of your goods, this will not cover the cost of replacing the items.

References

• FEMA: Are You Ready?
• ACES: Household and Personal Inventory Book

Resources

• Federal Citizen Information Center: Keeping Family/Household Records
• ACES: Household and Personal Inventory Book