Why You Absolutely Need a Household Inventory in 2026
Why You Absolutely Need a Household Inventory in 2026
We all hope we never have to experience the devastation of a disaster — but hope alone isn’t a strategy. Whether you live in a Midtown high-rise or a single-family home in the suburbs, having a household inventory is one of the smartest and simplest things you can do to protect yourself before disaster strikes.
What Is a Household Inventory?
A household inventory is a detailed record of everything you own — from your big-ticket furniture and electronics down to your clothing, jewelry, and kitchen items. It serves as a critical reference point if you ever need to file an insurance claim due to theft, fire, or natural disaster.
But Why Do I Need One?
Let’s talk about real-world scenarios here in Georgia:
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Tornadoes – While we often associate them with the Midwest, tornadoes can and do hit Georgia, especially in the spring and summer months. Damage can be severe and widespread.
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Fires – A kitchen fire or electrical issue can escalate quickly, leading to the loss of belongings and major home damage.
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Water Damage – Think burst pipes, flooding from storms, or a neighbor’s overflow if you’re in a condominium.
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Theft – Unfortunately, burglaries happen, and proving what was taken without documentation can delay or reduce your insurance claim.
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Condominium Living – If you live in a condo building, you’re also at risk for damage from neighboring units. A water leak on the 10th floor could easily ruin your belongings on the 9th.
In these moments, a household inventory is your best friend. It’s the evidence your insurance company needs to make sure you’re properly reimbursed for your loss.
How to Create a Modern Household Inventory
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Start With Your Phone
Today’s smartphones make this easier than ever. Use video or photos to document each room, opening closets, drawers, and cabinets to capture everything — even the stuff you forget you have! -
Be Thorough
Go room-by-room, capturing big items like TVs and furniture, but don’t forget smaller valuables like watches, electronics, designer shoes, or kitchen gadgets. Try to note brands, models, and serial numbers where possible. -
Go Digital
This is where we update the old advice. Skip the fireproof box or safe deposit box. Instead, store your photos, videos, and lists in the cloud. Use services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud so your inventory is safe, searchable, and accessible anytime, from anywhere. -
Include Receipts and Documentation
If you have digital receipts or warranties, organize them in folders alongside your inventory. You can also scan paper receipts using apps like Adobe Scan or Microsoft Lens. -
Keep It Updated
Make it a habit to review your inventory once a year — maybe every January or right before storm season. Add new purchases and delete items you no longer have.
Final Thoughts from Thom
A personal story about a home inventory … My Mother’s house burned down in 2005. It was mostly furnished with all Early American antiques….and about 3,500 sq. ft. I had begged her to make an inventory of everything, for a disaster, but also just to know what everything was and where it came from. She never did, but the year prior, when I was home for a visit I walked the entire house with my digital camera and photographed every room from multiple angles. It was a true lifesaver when it came to her insurance claim.
Whether you’re buying your first condo in Midtown or selling your family home in the ‘burbs, I always remind my clients: your home is more than just the bricks and mortar — it’s what’s inside that truly matters. Taking a few hours to document your belongings could save you thousands of dollars and months of stress down the road.
If you need a household inventory checklist to help you get started, feel free to reach out — I’m always happy to help.
