Do Homeowners Need a Household Inventory List in Case of Fire?

9/24/2021 (Permalink)

Should you experience fire damage, your insurance company will ask for an inventory of your home’s contents. SERVPRO’s ERP can help with this.

An Inventory of the Household Can Help with Insurance Claims in Wrightsville Beach

A fire can leave your home in devastation. Even small fires can damage items that may not be salvageable. Many people put off creating a household inventory list because it is a daunting task. But if a fire does strike in Wrightsville Beach, having such a list can help replace ruined items faster. 

Where Do I Start?

One of the things you need to recognize is that your homeowner's insurance most likely does not cover your home's entire content. If it does cover the loss, it may be less than full value. So, if you have expensive items, you may wish to talk to your insurance agent about more inclusive coverage on those. 

Examples would be artwork, collectibles, jewelry, equipment, and electronics, making this a wise move if fire damage happens to your Wrightsville Beach home. Here are some tips for getting started:

• Put together a plan– Trying to do it all at once can be overwhelming. Going room by room is a better option. Give yourself a deadline to ensure it does get done.
• Take pictures– Pictures can help a great deal if questions arise. Take several shots of each room. Open drawers, closets, and cupboards and photograph the content.
• Organize receipts– Keeping copies of receipts can verify you bought the item. It helps with more significant purchases when determining value.
•  Be specific– Details are critical, so the more detailed you can be in your descriptions, the better. Along with pictures and receipts, record serial numbers. 

SERVPRO can help with this inventory. Our mobile app, SERVPRO's ERP Emergency READY Profile Plan, makes inventory list-making easier. Ask us to visit you to set up this game-changer for mitigating water and fire damaging events to your property. A computer spreadsheet is a good option, as well. Do not let catastrophes such as a fire catch you off guard. Chances are you will never need your household inventory list, but if you do, it is ready.

Contact SERVPRO of New Hanover at (910) 762-8180 for expert fire damage service. We're Faster To Any Size Disaster.