You have homeowner’s insurance to protect your home and everything from an accidental and unexpected incident that causes a significant loss. If something catastrophic like a fire should occur, you will be called upon to provide a list of everything in the house and, in some cases, even proof.
An insured may be asked for photographic or other evidence of valuable possessions to protect the insurance company from paying out fraudulent claims. Here are some easy ways to be sure you keep good records of your home and its contents.
Documented Evidence
For expensive and valuable possessions, it’s a good idea to keep purchase receipts and appraisals where appropriate. These things, being paper, won’t survive something like a fire, so purchase a fireproof box in which to keep them or arrange for storage off-site. Ask a friend or relative to hold onto them for you, or place them in a safety deposit box if you have one. Some insurance companies will also scan these items for you and keep them in their computer system for future reference.
Photographic Evidence And Video Evidence
One of the most popular ways to keep records of your personal property is to take photographs and keep them somewhere safe. When taking photos of your items, be sure they are clear, and where possible, get close-up shots of model and serial numbers, especially on electronics.
Digital cameras have made it easier than ever to store large numbers of photographs, and you can back up your photos to a server where they can be kept safe in case they are needed, and the original files have been lost or destroyed.
Photographs can also be used to document the features of your home so that should it need to be rebuilt, you can return it to its original state.
Video cameras are also a popular choice for documenting your home. You don’t need to snap a picture of each item, but you can pan the room, zoom in where necessary, and keep one file with all the evidence you need. Again, digital video makes it easy to store the files in a safe place where even a total loss of your home won’t damage it.
A good record of the things inside and outside your home helps your insurance company restore you to your position before the loss. The more information they have, the easier it will be to reconstruct your home and replace your possessions. It’s up to you to create and store this evidence, so take the time to ensure the records are created and kept safe.
Lock Insurance is proud to introduce our premier mobile app “Insurance Agent.”
Manage, update, and protect your family, business, and property from your smartphone.
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These mobile services are free to our valued clients and friends.
Download the Insurance Agent mobile app below:
