September Newsletter

Creating a Simply Organized Life!
September 23, 2009

Hello subscribers,

Do you know what’s under your roof?

September is National Preparedness Month.

We would rather not think of the possibility of losing our home and it’s contents but it happens to people every day. Many are not prepared. Our insurance companies suggest that we document the contents of our homes. This can save you a lot of stress and bring you some peace of mind if a fire, flood or a natural disaster destroyed your possessions.

There are thousands of items in a typical American home, but how many of us can remember what resides under our roofs once it is gone?

I recently completed a simple home inventory. It only took me about 1 hour because I did not create a written inventory. Read on to find out how I simplified the process.

There are 5 steps to a simple home inventory that you can complete in a couple of hours. You’ll feel confident knowing what’s under your roof and your insurance company will be able to process your claim more efficiently.

  1. Block off some time in your schedule; about 1-2 hours to complete your inventory. If you schedule it then you have made the commitment.
  2. Use a camera or video recorder to document your belongings. If you are recording then narrate as you walk through your house. Remember to open closet doors, drawers and cabinets. Include window coverings, light fixtures, artwork, and decorative accessories. If you have items in boxes; grandma’s china, collectibles, ect., unpack them and photograph the items. Photograph your garage and its contents, basements, attics, and outdoor furniture.
  3. Take notes, if more detail is needed and collect receipts and/or appraisals for furniture, electronics and antiques if possible.
  4. Once you have photographed or recorded your entire home, print out the photos or transfer it to a CD. Keep the inventory current by documenting any additions.
  5. Store the photos or CD’s in several different locations. A safe deposit box at your bank is a secure and save option. Ask a relative to store a copy in their files.

That’s all it takes to complete a very basic inventory. Set a date, load your camera with plenty of film or charge those batteries. The time you spend now will help you put your life back together with a little more ease.

If you would rather have a professional help you with your inventory you may contact Simply Organized or Valuables on Video, LLC at www.yourvaluablesonvideo.com Also check out www.napo-wi.com (National Association for Professional Organizers WI Chapter) for more detailed inventory information. Click on Get Organized, Resources, and Taking a Household Inventory.

"A house is just a pile of stuff with a cover on it."  George Carlin

If you enjoyed this issue, please pass it along to a friend.

Simply,

Jill