Home is more than just a place to sleep — it’s where memories are made and milestones are celebrated. Over time, everything you’ve worked for fills your home, from furniture and electronics to clothing, décor, and keepsakes.

But if a burglary, fire, or severe storm were to happen, would you be able to remember everything you own?

That’s why creating a home inventory list is one of the smartest steps you can take as a homeowner. A detailed inventory helps speed up the insurance claims process and makes it easier to recover financially after a loss. Taking the time to document your belongings now can help Midwest restore normalcy faster later.

Here’s how to build your home inventory in five simple steps.

Step 1: Walk Through Your Home Room by Room

Start small and work one room at a time. The more detailed your inventory, the smoother the claims process will be.

Be sure to include both interior and exterior items of value. As you document each item, try to include:

  • Basic details: Description, brand, make/model, purchase location, and estimated cost
  • Serial numbers: Especially for appliances and electronics
  • Receipts and appraisals: Keep copies when possible
  • Clothing: Estimate by category (e.g., 6 pairs of jeans, 9 dresses, 2 pairs of sneakers)
  • Photos: Take clear photos of rooms and high-value items
  • Video: Record a walkthrough of your home while describing what you see

Don’t forget closets, drawers, the garage, attic, and basement — these spaces often hold more value than you realize.

Step 2: Document Off-Site Property

If you rent a storage unit or keep belongings at another location, those items should also be included. Many homeowners’ policies extend coverage to off-site belongings, so make sure they’re documented as well.

Step 3: Store Your Inventory Safely

Your inventory won’t help if it’s destroyed in the same event as your home.

Store copies in multiple locations:

  • Off-site: A safety deposit box or with a trusted family member
  • Digital: Cloud storage, an external hard drive, or secure online storage

Having backups ensures your records are accessible when you need them most.

Step 4: Update Your List Regularly

Whenever you make a significant purchase, add it to your inventory right away. Likewise, remove items you no longer own. Keeping your list current ensures accurate coverage and a smoother claims experience.

Step 5: Review Coverage for High-Value Items

Items such as jewelry, artwork, antiques, and collectibles may have appreciated in value. These may require additional coverage beyond your standard homeowner’s policy.

You may also consider storing rarely used valuables in a secure off-site location.

Final Thoughts

Creating a home inventory may feel time-consuming, but it’s one of the most proactive steps you can take to protect what matters most. Check with your Midwest agent to ensure these items are properly insured. If the unexpected happens, having a detailed record of your belongings can help you process your claim efficiently — so you can focus on getting back to normal.