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Moving Inventory
Planning for a MoveMoving is a time of change. And as you prepare to start your new life in your new location, it's not only a great time to think about new home insurance but also to take a home inventory. Taking the time to create a home inventory before you need one is one of the best home insurance tips around.
The team at Lowe's has prepared these Frequently Asked Questions to help answer your questions about new home insurance and the process of preparing a home inventory.
What Is a Home Inventory?
A home inventory is nothing more than a record of your possessions. It helps protect your possessions in the event of theft, accident or catastrophe. It's the first thing you will need to make an insurance claim. And it speeds up the claims process so that in the event of a loss, life can return to normal as quickly as possible.
How Do I Create a Home Inventory?
Since you're already in the process of moving, now is actually a great time to create a home inventory. While either packing or unpacking, keep adding items to your inventory. Here's how:
- If you have a video camera, you can film the items you want to include in your inventory. If you don't have a video camera, take photographs of items. It may be helpful to hold a ruler next to certain items to show relative size.
- Create a written inventory. Write down the make, model, and serial number information for each item. Be sure to include the original purchase price and year of purchase for each item in your record.
- As you pack or unpack each room in your home, add items from that room to your inventory.
Don't overlook small appliances or forget to document the items in your garage, sheds, basements, etc.
Toolboxes, lawn mowers, and seasonal items – like bikes, skis, sporting equipment, and grills – are some commonly stolen items. And they can be expensive to replace should they come up missing. So be sure to add these items to your home inventory.
Am I Adequately Insured?
As you prepare to move, you'll be meeting with your insurance agent about new home insurance. This is the perfect time to share your home inventory with your insurance agent. You may find that some items such as jewelry, art and electronics are not sufficiently covered. Your agent can help you make certain that you have the coverage that is best for you.
If you are in the process of moving to a new area, chances are you'll also need to find a new insurance agent in your new city. Your new agent can help you with new home insurance as well as adequate coverage for the items listed in your home inventory.
Where Should I Store My Home Inventory?
When you are satisfied your inventory is complete, store it in a fire-proof box or safety deposit box. You can also give a copy of your inventory to your insurance agent to keep on file, as well as to an out-of-town relative that you trust.
When Should I Update My Home Inventory?
Plan on updating your inventory once each year or after any major purchase.
What If I Need Help Finding an Insurance Agent in My New City?
It's easy to find a local Nationwide insurance agent today. Or call 1-800-659-0967 to talk to a Nationwide representative. We'll help you choose the right coverage for your home insurance, condo insurance, renters insurance or auto insurance.
When you meet with your new agent, don't forget to bring along your home inventory for your agent to keep on file.
