Theft, earthquakes, floods and fires happen all of the time. Most of us (including me) never feel like it could really happen to us… until it does. This week I want to walk you through the steps of protecting your home by taking inventory of it.

Most of us have our home insured to help make us whole if a disaster does happen… but how can we expect ourselves to remember EVERYTHING we own that is in our home? That’s where having a home inventory comes into play. Unless you have a home warranty, you will not get what you should for your home.

So let’s get down to business.

1. Choose a software and storage method that is best for you.

Walking through your home while videoing is okay and does get the job done quickly, but there is a better way to do it. There are software programs that simplify the process, like “what you own”. If you are looking for a free version, I have a spreadsheet template I can send you, just email me and I will send it over.

2. Take inventory

Take it room by room. I recommend getting the biggest rooms out of the way first, like the kitchen. Make sure you note the objects condition, model, and value if they are more expensive items. Better yet… keep the receipt!

3. Taking photos and videos can only help!

Your phone camera is great. Just make a quick video of each room while you go through all of the cupboards, closets and drawers while explaining what possessions you have in there. Don’t forget the storage shed, or utility closet!

4. Don’t forget the important documents

Save your important documents, like birth certificates and social security numbers, in a digital form on Dropbox or iCloud can save you a lot of hassle if you ever need to replace them.

5. Now for the expensive items

Expensive electronics, collectible items, and machinery may require extra attention to be covered by your insurance. Make sure to include the make, model, serial number, purchase date and location, as well as photographs.

6. Keep copies away from home

Don’t store you inventory only in your home. There’s a good chance that whatever took or destroyed your possessions also will destroy your inventory. A great way to store this is somewhere online that can be accessed from any computer. I recommend Dropbox or iCloud. It also doesn’t hurt to swap copies with friends and family members.

I hope that helps you feel more safe, secure and protected in your home. You deserve it!