What to photograph for your insurer, room by room

If you have a loss, an inventory takes some of the stress out of the claim, and the more detail it holds, the easier it is for the insurer to evaluate. Photograph each item, or walk each room with a video running and describe what's in it as you go.

Start now, since an incomplete inventory beats none. If you've lived in the house for years, begin with recent purchases and add older items later. For each item, note the maker, the model and serial number, where you bought it, the date and the price paid where you know them.

Living areas

• Sofas, chairs, tables and bookcases
• The television, sound system and game consoleInclude streaming devices, video games and discs.
• Computers, monitors and external drivesRecord the brand, model and serial number, usually on the back or the bottom.
• Rugs, curtains, lamps and light fixtures
• Art, wall decor, instruments and books

Kitchen and dining room

• The large appliancesThe stove, refrigerator, dishwasher and freezer each need a serial number recorded.
• The small appliancesInclude the microwave, coffee maker, toaster, blender and mixer.
• Inside the cabinetsOpen the doors and photograph the dishes, glasses, pots and pans, and silverware.
• China, crystal and serving piecesPhotograph the china cabinet and buffet with them.

Bedrooms and bathrooms

• Beds, mattresses, dressers and night tables
• Clothing, closet by closetCount clothing by type, from coats and suits to shoes and boots, and note the especially valuable pieces. Open the closet and photograph what's hanging.
• Watches, jewelry and accessoriesPhotograph each piece close up.
• Bathroom electronics and linensInclude hair dryers, electric razors and toothbrushes, towels and linens.

Garage, yard and storage

• Lawn mower, trimmer, leaf blower and snow blower
• Power tools, hand tools and the tool box
• Bicycles and sports equipment
• Patio furniture, grills and holiday decorations
• A second freezer or refrigerator

The laundry or utility room belongs on the list too. Photograph the clothes washer and dryer, and record their serial numbers from the labels. Then take in the vacuum cleaner, carpet shampooer, sewing machine, craft supplies, shelving and storage containers.

Keeping the photos useful

Store a copy somewhere besides your home, such as online, in a safe deposit box or with a relative, so you can reach it even if you have to evacuate. Keep the receipts with it. Review and update the inventory every year, photos and videos included, and whenever you buy something new. A home inventory in an afternoon covers building the full list.