A home inventory is a detailed record of your belongings. For California homeowners, it can mean the difference between a delayed, underpaid claim and a fast, accurate payout after fire, water, or storm damage.
Why a Home Inventory Matters in California
Wildfires, earthquakes, and severe storms strike without warning. When disaster hits, insurance companies require detailed, time-stamped evidence to process claims. Without it, your payout may be reduced or delayed.
At Chris Faber Public Adjusters, we’ve seen thousands of California claims where homeowners had to fight harder because they lacked documentation. A thorough home inventory protects your finances by proving what you owned, when you bought it, and what it was worth.
In this post we cover:
- Why insurance readiness is essential in California’s disaster planning
- How to create a photo and video inventory of your home
- The key documents every homeowner should store before an emergency
- How to review your policy for wildfire, smoke, and earthquake coverage
- What to include in your grab-and-go insurance folder
(This is part of our August preparedness series. If you missed it, read our Emergency Management Awareness Month overview and our Homeowner’s Guide to Insurance-Ready Planning.)
What Should a Home Inventory Include?
A strong home inventory goes beyond a quick list. At minimum, include:
- Item name and description (e.g., “Samsung 55-inch Smart TV”)
- Purchase price or estimated value
- Brand, model, and serial numbers
- Room or location (living room, garage, attic, shed)
- Receipts, appraisals, or warranty info if available
Even small household items matter. A drawer of clothes or kitchen utensils may not seem valuable, but they add up quickly in a claim.
How to Create Your Home Inventory
1. Do a Walkthrough Video
Use your phone to slowly film each room, closet, and storage area. Narrate brand names or purchase details as you go.
2. Take Close-Ups
Photograph receipts, tags, and serial numbers. For high-value items (jewelry, instruments, collectibles), include appraisals or insurance riders.
3. Build a Digital Log
Use a spreadsheet or apps like Sortly or HomeZada. Both let you organize by room, assign values, and upload photos.
4. Back It Up Twice
- Save one copy to a secure cloud platform (Google Drive, iCloud, Dropbox).
- Keep another on an external drive or USB stored off-site.
When Should You Update Your Inventory?
- After major purchases (appliances, furniture, electronics)
- After renovations or remodels
- At least once a year before peak fire season
Not sure if your current coverage matches your belongings’ value?
We review California insurance policies every day. Get a free policy review and know exactly where you stand before the next wildfire or storm.
FAQs
Q: Do I really need to list small, inexpensive items?
A: Yes. Groups of small items (kitchenware, books, clothing) often add up to thousands of dollars in a claim.
Q: What’s the best app for home inventories?
A: Sortly and HomeZada are popular options, but even a basic spreadsheet works if it’s backed up securely.
Q: Can I start a claim with just photos?
A: Photos help, but a written log alongside photos provides stronger proof for insurers.
Let’s take the next step together.
A complete home inventory protects your property and speeds up your recovery after disaster. If you need help reviewing your policy or starting a claim, contact us today for a free consultation.
