To know how much value your home and your possessions costs, it is very useful if you make a list as you go around your house. Visit every room, upstairs and downstairs, cupboards, utility rooms, garage and outbuildings. Record every item you may have. Find out what it would cost to replace each item. If you buy any new things especially if they are expensive, check whether they are included in the policy or added as specified items. Keep your receipts and take pictures as proof that you possess certain items. Finally, store your list at a safe place where you could easily remember and retrieve it.

Have received some pricey gifts from your parents, friends or hubbie, then get your insurance to cover it fast so you can get it replaced if the unthinkable happens. Burglaries and theft are on the rise and homeowners should take every precaution to protect the home and it’s contents. Installing a home alarm system to detect such incidents even when you are out of the house can mean life and death for you and your family. ample lighting outside the house and removing hiding places or at least illuminating them/maintaining them can deter burglars.
Homeowners insurance has the ability to cover such contents through add-on’s that would have you declare the valuables or items you wish to cover. The insurance company will then have to get the market value of that item or get it appraised for an estimated value they will pay you when it is stolen when the home is broken into. A quality vault in the home would also be a good deterrent for it will make it harder for thieves to get these valuables but they can only protect these things and not your family members who happen to be in the house so do secure the house, for you and your family.

To make taking your claim easier, keep your policy documents in a safe place and your policy number and claims line number easily accessible. You could call them anytime of the day and the paperwork can be done quickly while talking on the phone. If you’re properly insured, you will be provided with a brand new item but there are a few exceptions to this. However if you need to make a claim, be sure that it’s honest because if you exaggerate, the insurer will refuse and cancel your policy. You may also find it harder to get insurance in the future.

The items inside your home may be worth more than your house. These items may be covered by your homeowners insurance. It is important to make an inventory of valuable items in your home such as jewelries, collectible items such as paintings and figurines, appliances and gadgets. Having this list will help you make claims easier than trying to recall items lost in a fire. You also have the option to insure big ticket items separately.

Once you have made your list, keep it in a safe deposit box, or better yet, let a friend or relative keep it, just in case. You can also store it online.

To know more about home inventory, visit: Home Inventory

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