Obviously, the most difficult time to prove everything you have lost is after you have lost it. For that reason, it is vital to keep an up-to-date inventory of your personal property. It can help you file an insurance claim or document losses not covered by insurance. You may want to claim uncovered losses as a deduction.
List every item in your house and attach appraisals, receipts, and model or serial numbers for big-ticket items. Photograph or videotape every room and the contents of drawers and cupboards for backup. To prevent them from being lost or destroyed along with the property itself, keep your household inventory records at another location—like a relative's house or in a safety deposit box. Update your inventory and supporting documentation regularly, especially following a major purchase.
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