After a fire, theft or other covered loss, remembering every item in your home can be harder than expected. A home inventory gives you a record before you need it, and it does not have to be complicated.

What a useful record includes.

Take wide photos or a slow video, then open closets, cabinets and drawers. Capture model and serial numbers for appliances, electronics and other higher-value items. Save receipts, appraisals and purchase confirmations when available, and do not forget the garage or shed.

A practical room sequence.

  1. Photograph each room and storage area.
  2. Record brands, models and serial numbers.
  3. Attach receipts or appraisals when available.
  4. Update the inventory after major purchases.
QR code for the Texas Home Inventory Checklist
Texas Home Inventory Checklist
tdi.texas.gov/pubs/consumer/cb086.pdf
FREE - TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE
Open the free checklist
Keep a copy away from the house, securely in cloud storage or with someone you trust.

The record only helps if you can reach it.

Originally published in Lynas Weekly, Issue No. 2. Archived web edition.

Educational information. Not a loan approval, rate quote, commitment to lend, or individualized financial advice. Time-sensitive statements retain their original publication context.