The Insurance Information Institute offers several tips for conducting an efficient and comprehensive home inventory, including:

List your recent purchases first, then go back and record your older possessions. Be sure to include information about where each item was purchased, the make and model, any serial numbers listed on the item and any other important identifying information.
Keep proof of value. Be sure to store any relevant receipts, contracts or appraisals with your inventory list.
Understand big ticket items may need separate coverage. If you have valuable items like jewelry, art, furs and other collectibles that would be difficult to replace, speak to your insurance agent about whether they need special coverage outside of your homeowners policy.
Take photos, and be sure they're well-labeled. Having a visual record of the items in your home helps create a more complete home inventory. You could also record a home walk-through on video or utilize apps that help create room-by-room lists of your possessions.
Store a copy of your inventory outside of your home. You should also create backups of any digital files related to your home inventory.

Most importantly, remember that your home inventory is a living document. Take time to record any new purchases so you are able to put together a policy that continually meets your needs.

Special Reports /

APCIA recommends doing a post-holiday home inventory

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