Make Your Move: The Ideal Time for a Home Inventory

Did you know that 45% of all annual moves take place between May and August? If you’re one of the nearly 11 million people moving into a new home or apartment in the next few months.

Now is the perfect time to take a home inventory as you’re packing and unpacking your belongings.

While it does take some extra time, creating a detailed home inventory during your move can streamline the process and ensure you’re fully prepared for any insurance needs or claims.

Why Create a Home Inventory?

Creating a home inventory is invaluable for managing your belongings during a move and for any potential insurance claims. An inventory:

• Facilitates Insurance Claims: In the event of theft, loss, or damage, having an up-to-date inventory can make the claim process smoother and faster.
• Helps Determine Adequate Coverage: An inventory helps ensure that your insurance coverage is sufficient for your needs. You might discover that you need more—or less—coverage based on the value of your possessions.
• Eases the Unpacking Process: Knowing exactly what you have and where it goes can dramatically decrease the stress and duration of unpacking.

How to Create a Home Inventory:

• Start With Your Big-Ticket Items: Begin by listing high-value items such as electronics, jewelry, and furniture. Note their make, model, serial numbers, purchase date, and estimated value.
• Use Technology: Employ a digital tool or home inventory app to keep track of your items. These apps can store photos, descriptions, and even store receipts digitally.
• Document Room by Room: Take it one room at a time to avoid getting overwhelmed. This methodical approach helps ensure you don’t miss anything.
• Include Receipts and Appraisals: Keep receipts, contracts, and appraisal documents with your inventory. This documentation can be crucial for insurance claims and tax deductions.
• Store Your Inventory Safely: Make sure your inventory list is saved in a safe, easily accessible place. Consider using cloud storage, which ensures that the list can be retrieved from anywhere, regardless of local disasters.
• Keep It Updated: Review and update your inventory annually or whenever you make significant purchases. This practice keeps your inventory current and your insurance coverage accurate.

While moving can be a hectic time, it’s also the perfect opportunity to tackle tasks like creating a home inventory.

Unsure where to start or need advice on the best tools to use? Contact your trusted Rockingham Insurance agent for tips and strategies to ensure your belongings are accurately documented and protected.