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	Household Inventory Checklist
	By Ramona Creel

Feel free to use this tip sheet / checklist as you tackle your own ""do-it-yourself"" organizing projects. If you would like to REPRINT or DISTRIBUTE this information, please click here for reprinting instructions.

• go from room to room photographing / videotaping each
• open each cabinet, drawer, and closet for a close-up shot
• take individual pictures of particularly valuable items
• include pictures of serial numbers on electronics and appliances
• don't forget larger items in the garage, basement, or outbuildings
• write a description of each item with serial number and brand name

• artwork and oriental rugs
• antiques and collectibles
• jewelry and furs
• stamp and coin collections
• silverware
• any other valuable or irreplaceable items

• clothing, shoes, accessories, and jewelry
• household furnishings, home decor, and fixtures
• games, toys, exercise machines, and recreational equipment
• kitchenware, appliances, and cooking implements
• glassware, cutlery, dishes, and other tableware
• books, CDs, video tapes, and other media
• lawn care items, tools, and outdoor equipment
• items stored away in your basement, garage, or attic
• personal items, memorabilia, family heirlooms
• antiques, art, and collectibles
• vehicles (motorbikes, bicycles, boats, ATVs, etc.)
• holiday decorations and seasonal items
• outdoor improvements (decks, outbuildings, landscaping)
• anything else that you own

• inventory will be necessary if you have to file an insurance claim
• store original inventory in fire safe or safe deposit box
• can also give a copy to insurance agent or family member
• keep a copy of your homeowner's insurance with the original
• whenever you buy something new, photograph it
• put the new photo and copy of receipt in with your inventory
• review and update your entire inventory yearly
• increase your homeowner's insurance, if necessary

• prepare an aggregate estimated value for all belongings
• for especially valuable items, get a certified appraisal
• store receipts for expensive items with the inventory
• note the purchase date and price of each item

 

Copyright Ramona Creel, all rights reserved-- you are welcome to reprint any article, but you MUST include this resource box.

Ramona Creel is a modern Renaissance woman and guru of simplicity -- traveling the country as a full-time RVer, sharing her story of radically downsizing, and inspiring others to regain control of their own lives. As a Professional Organizer and Accountability Coach, Ramona will help you create the time and space to focus on your true priorities -- clearing away the clutter other obstacles and standing in the way of that life you've always wanted to be living. As a Professional Photographer, Ramona captures powerful images of places and people as she travels. And as a travel writer, social commentator, and blogger, she shares her experiences and insights about the world as we know it. You can see all these sides of Ramona -- read her articles, browse through her photographs, and even hire her to help get your life in order -- at www.RamonaCreel.com. And be sure to follow her on Twitter and on Facebook.

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