Why Every Homeowner Needs a Home Inventory 

Disasters like hurricanes, fires, or floods can strike when you least expect them, causing severe damage or even total loss of your home and belongings. While having the right insurance policy is critical, many homeowners forget one important step: creating a home inventory. 

A detailed home inventory checklist makes it much easier to file an insurance claim and receive full compensation for your losses. Trying to recall every item you owned after a disaster is not only stressful but also often leads to underpayment or denied claims. 

How to Create a Home Inventory: Quick Start with Your Smartphone 

One of the easiest ways to start your home inventory for insurance is by using your smartphone. 

Simply walk through each room in your home, recording a video. As you go, describe the features of each space and list major items like furniture, electronics, appliances, and valuables. 

Don’t forget to include the exterior areas, like patios, garages, and storage spaces. 

Once finished, save the video on a secure platform like your computer, an external drive, or a reliable cloud storage service. 

Download Our Free Complete Household Inventory Worksheet. 

For homeowners who want a more detailed and organized approach, The HomeOwner’s Advocate offers a free Complete Household Inventory Worksheet. 

This tool was designed using real lists from homeowners who successfully recovered full insurance benefits after filing property damage claims. 

The Complete Household Inventory Worksheet includes an extensive list of common household items. From kitchen appliances and furniture to electronics and personal belongings, this template will help you create a thorough inventory customized to your home. 

Step-by-Step Guide: Using the Home Inventory Checklist 

You have two easy ways to fill out your Complete Household Inventory Worksheet: 

• Digital Version: Open the Excel file on your computer, fill in the details, and save it on a secure device or cloud storage. 

• Printable Version: Print the spreadsheet and complete it by hand. 

Both methods help ensure you’re better prepared if you ever need to file an insurance claim. 

What Details Should You Include? 

For each item listed, try to provide the following: 

• Description: Brief but clear. 

• Quantity: Number of each item. 

• Age of Item: Approximate purchase date or age. 

• Cost: Original price (add later if needed). 

• Photos/Receipts: Attach digital images and receipts when possible. 

If your insurance policy covers Actual Cash Value (ACV), you may also need to estimate the current depreciated value of each item. For Replacement Cost (RC) policies, focus on replacement pricing. 

Pro Tip: You can skip the “% value” column unless you’re preparing an actual claim. 

Extra Tips for a Thorough and Reliable Home Inventory 

• Scan Important Documents: Keep digital copies of warranties, receipts, and appraisals. 

• Keep Your Inventory Updated: Add new purchases and remove items you no longer own. 

• Back Up Your Files: Store your home inventory list and related files offsite—whether in cloud storage, on a flash drive kept at your office, or even emailed to a trusted friend or family member. 

• Visual Documentation: Take photos or create video walkthroughs of your home’s interior and exterior. 

Final Thought: Some Preparation is Better Than None 

Whether you start with a simple video or complete a detailed home inventory spreadsheet, taking action now will make a huge difference later. 

 In the event of property damage or disaster, you’ll be thankful you took the time to document your belongings.

 

Need help with an insurance claim? 

Contact The HomeOwner’s Advocate for expert guidance and support throughout your insurance recovery process.