How Do I Inventory Damaged Belongings for Insurance?

A written inventory gives your insurance company a clear picture of what was damaged. Without it, you might forget items or struggle to recall details weeks later. The list also helps you track what the pros remove during cleanup, so nothing gets overlooked.

Your memory fades quickly after a water event. A thorough record made soon after the damage is more accurate than one made later. Take photos before anything is moved or thrown away. That visual evidence supports your written notes.

Use your phone to record a slow walkthrough of each affected room. Open drawers and cabinets to show the contents. Narrate as you go, saying the item names and any details you notice. This creates a timestamped record you can refer to later.

Take individual photos of valuable or fragile items. Capture any tags, labels, or receipts attached to them. If you have old photos of your belongings from before the damage, include those as well. They help show what you owned.

Review your inventory for completeness before you share it. Check each room again, including closets, attics, and garages. If you find missing items, add them right away. A thorough list is more useful than a quick one.

Keep your inventory handy during the cleanup process. The pros may remove damaged items, so your list helps you track what they take. You can also use it to confirm what was discarded versus what might be repairable.

• Double-check every room
• Add items as you remember them
• Keep the list accessible
• Update it after the pros work
• Save a second copy
• Share it with your insurance company