Proof of loss is documentation that proves that you own certain items, for example, if they are stolen and that you need to make an insurance claim. Proof of loss helps your insurer to check which of your property was damaged or destroyed in the damage covered and how much it was worth, so your insurer can help you reimburse for lost items.

You probably don’t expect your house to be burgled, but it’s important to be prepared. Home, condominium, and tenant insurance policies generally cover personal property (within the limits set by the policy). However, to make a claim, you need to know what happened. Could you list the specific items that have been stolen or damaged, and how much are these items worth?

DO I NEED A LOSS FOR AN INSURANCE CLAIM?

If you need to make an insurance claim, your insurer may request a list of lost or damaged items. You may be asked to provide proof that you own these items, e.g. B. Receipts or invoices. Therefore, it can be helpful to think ahead, take inventory of your belongings, and update it regularly.

Here are some tips for creating and storing your residential inventory:

HOW TO CREATE A HOME INVENTORY

Here are some tips for creating and storing your residential inventory:

Make A Complete Checklist

Make a list of your belongings and save them with relevant information. You must provide the item type, year of purchase, original price, and other relevant details.

Include sales receipts, sales contracts and all appraisal documents reports the Insurance Information Institute (III).

Regarding your clothes, find out how many items you have by type, for example, B. shoes and pants. III recommends it. Note the make, model, and a serial number of devices and electronics.

Keep your inventory list in a safe place, e.g. B. in a safe or with a trusted friend or family member. Remember to update your list each time you make a large purchase.

THINK VISUALLY

You don’t have to be a professional filmmaker to film or photograph every room in your home. If you choose to record a video, say so on the way out. Discuss each item and note its properties and conditions.

Create Digital Recording

If you are concerned about losing your printed list, you must use a software option or a mobile application to digitally store your personal belongings.

An electronic inventory program can help you organize and store your information. If you are creating a digital file, you must save it and save a copy to an online storage account or to an external drive.

Taking inventory of your own data now will give you a clearer idea of ​​what you have, and you can rest assured that your documentation will be correct in the event of the unexpected.