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Texas Department of Insurance
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A home inventory: Why you need it and how to do it

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Having a detailed home inventory is important if you ever need to make an insurance claim. Here are four things to know about making a home inventory.

  1. Why you need it

    Not having a home inventory could delay your claims payment. Most insurance companies will want a record of your lost or damaged items before they will pay a personal property claim. Ask your agent what documentation is needed to make a claim.

  2. There’s an app for that

    Many insurance companies have apps or online forms for home inventories. If your insurance company doesn’t offer its own app, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) has a free NAIC Home Inventory app you can use.

  3. The ultimate home video

    You can make your own home inventory using your smartphone to take pictures or video of each room in your home. Open closets and drawers and record serial numbers of items like appliances and electronics. Don’t forget the garage or shed to make note of tools, lawn equipment, and sporting goods.

  4. Where to keep it

    Keep your home inventory safe and up-to-date. Store your inventory away from home with a family member or close friend or keep it online in cloud storage or email.

    Make it a habit to update the list regularly whenever you make big purchases.

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Questions? Call us at 800-252-3439.

Last updated: 8/18/2023