Policy Holders Corner
From the Insurance Information Institute...
Download the I.I.I.'s new home inventory software
for free! (Minimum requirements: Windows XP, 2000)
This software makes creating a home inventory fun and easy. Once you have completed
your inventory, it is easy to keep your information up to date. This software will
help you create a room-by-room inventory of your personal possessions. Having an
up-to-date home inventory will help you:
- Purchase enough insurance to replace the things you own.
- Get your insurance claims settled faster.
- Substantiate losses for your income tax return.
You can always simply make a list in a notebook and save receipts and photos in
a file. This software, however, should make this task fun and simple. More importantly,
with the click of your mouse, you can update this list as you buy or eliminate personal
possessions.
Getting Started
If you have been setting up a household, starting a home inventory can be relatively
simple. You could even attach recent wedding registries to substantiate new possessions.
But, if you have been living in a house for many years, this task may seem daunting.
If you set aside an afternoon and get your entire household involved, it can be
an enjoyable experience. It is much easier to document your possessions before you
suffer a loss from a fire, hurricane, burglary or other disaster.
Big Ticket Items
Make note of expensive items, such as jewelry, furs, and collectibles. Valuable
items may need separate insurance. But, don't forget more commonplace items such
as toys, CD's and clothing.
Taking Photographs
Along with the written information, consider adding photographs of your possessions,
which can be done easily with a digital camera. Those with film cameras can scan
print photographs or have their film developer save the images to a disk. You can
always simply store your print photographs with a copy of your inventory.
Videotape It
Walk through your house or apartment videotaping the contents. Remember to open
drawers and closets. One advantage of videotape is that you can narrate what you
are filming.
elcome to the Policy Holders Corner. Here you will find links and tools below that
you may find useful.