Home Inventory: What to Document

After a loss, insurers ask you to prove what you owned, when you bought it, and what it was worth. Memory fails under stress. A documented inventory is your evidence.

For every item, record

• What it is — name and description
• Brand and model — especially for electronics and appliances
• Serial number — critical for identification
• Purchase date and place — with receipt if you have it
• Purchase price — and note the replacement cost today if different
• Photos — the item itself, and ideally a wider shot showing it in the room

Room by room

• Kitchen — appliances, cookware sets, small appliances (kettle, blender, air fryer)
• Living areas — television, audio, furniture, rugs, artwork
• Bedrooms — mattresses, linen, clothing of value, jewellery
• Office — computers, monitors, printers, phones
• Garage / shed — tools, sporting equipment, bicycles

Proof that matters most

Serial numbers and receipts are the strongest evidence. For jewellery and collectables, a dated valuation or appraisal strengthens a claim. Walk through your home once a year and update.

Educational information only — not insurance or legal advice.

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