Home Inventory can help homeowners prepare for the unexpected

Fort Myers, FL – 08/26/2009 – No matter the time of year, the aftermath of a storm can be devastating, leaving people without homes or dealing with major repairs. While we can’t predict natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, fires or floods, homeowners and renters can make sure their property and belongings are properly inventoried and adequately protected. The Atlantic hurricane season stretches through Nov. 30 and early preparation is the best way to help protect your family and property. Regardless of whether you own or rent, you need to ask yourself, “If disaster struck my home today, would I know or have any records of what I owned and lost?” Remember that even though it can take years to accumulate possessions, they could be gone in a split second in a natural disaster.

Ted Todd Insurance Agency recommends that you compile a detailed home inventory of your belongings to ensure that disaster recovery is as easy as possible following a loss. An accurate, up-to-date home inventory can make all the difference in documenting your possessions for insurance claims purposes. Five steps to a good home inventory

1. Ted Todd Insurance feels the most reliable home inventory list is one that also includes photographs or video of your belongings. If you have a home video camera, take periodic videos of each room in your house. Focus on individual items in each room. Include anything you have of value, such as jewelry, silver and related valuables or keepsakes. The same recommendations apply if you’re using a conventional camera. The key is to be very thorough.
2. Secondly, create a detailed written list of what you own. Be specific as specific and descriptive in your written inventory as possible. It is wise to also include make, model, serial numbers, receipts, and date of purchase for all items in your home inventory.
3. Store your home inventory list in a safe, secure location other than in your home. If you have a bank safe deposit box, keep your list there. If you don’t have a safe deposit box, ask a friend or relative to keep your inventory list in a safe place. Ted Todd recommends that you store your home inventory list far enough away from your home that it won’t be lost in the same disaster event that may destroy your house. However, make sure your home inventory list is also close enough so that it is easily accessible when you need it in an emergency.
4. Be sure to update your home inventory after any major purchase or gift. You should be updating your home inventory periodically, anyway—but make a special effort to add items after any major purchase, holidays, or birthdays.
5. It is also wise to share your home inventory list with your insurance agent so that he or she can help you decide if your coverage adequately meets your needs. (Coverage and discounts are subject to availability and qualifications. Other terms, conditions and exclusions may apply.)

The Ted Todd Insurance Agency has over 30 licensed professionals providing home, auto, business, commercial, retirement, and life insurance products at its six regional offices located throughout Lee, Collier and Sarasota Counties.