Protecting what matters most starts with knowing what you have. This comprehensive home inventory checklist is designed to help you document your possessions room by room, making the process simpler and less daunting. In the unfortunate event of a loss, having a detailed inventory can significantly speed up your insurance claim and ensure you receive the full benefit of your policy.
Getting Started: Tips for a Thorough Inventory
Take Photos or Videos: For each item, especially high-value ones, snap a photo or take a short video.
Store Off-Site: Once completed, keep this document (and any accompanying photos/receipts) in a secure location outside your home. Consider using a cloud service (like Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud), an external hard drive, or a safety deposit box. This ensures your inventory is safe even if your home is affected by a loss.
Secure Storage with Us: For your convenience and added security, McDonalds Insurance is happy to offer a secure storage option for a copy of your completed inventory document and accompanying photos, if you wish. Speak to one of our licensed brokers for details.
Keep Receipts: Attach receipts for major purchases to this inventory or keep them in a secure, easily accessible file.
Serial Numbers Matter (If Applicable): Always note serial numbers for electronics, appliances, and other valuable items.
Don't Forget the "Hidden" Gems: Look inside cupboards, drawers, and storage areas.
Update Regularly: Life changes! Review and update your inventory at least once a year, or after significant purchases.
Your Home Inventory Checklist
Use the tables below to list your belongings. Click the "Add Another Item Row" button to include more items as needed.
Columns to Fill In:
Description: Be specific (e.g., "Samsung 65-inch Smart TV," "Antique Oak Dining Table").
Make/Model: If applicable, note the brand and model number.
Serial Number: Crucial for electronics and appliances.
Date Purchased (Approx.): Estimate if you don't have the exact date.
Original Cost (Approx.): Your best estimate of what you paid.
Photo (Y/N): Tick 'Y' if you have a photo or video of the item.
Living Room / Family Room
Description
Make/Model
Serial Number
Date Purchased (Approx.)
Original Cost (Approx.)
Photo (Y/N)
Suggested Items for this room: Sofa/Sectional, Armchairs, Coffee Table, End Tables, Television, Sound System, Gaming Console, Media Cabinet, Area Rugs, Lamps, Artwork, Bookshelves, Curtains, Electronics, Collectibles.
Kitchen
Description
Make/Model
Serial Number
Date Purchased (Approx.)
Original Cost (Approx.)
Photo (Y/N)
Suggested Items for this room: Refrigerator, Oven/Stove, Microwave, Dishwasher, Coffee Maker, Toaster, Blender, Stand Mixer, Cookware, Dishware, Glassware, Cutlery, Small Appliances, Table and Chairs, Pantry Contents (high value).
Dining Room
Description
Make/Model
Serial Number
Date Purchased (Approx.)
Original Cost (Approx.)
Photo (Y/N)
Suggested Items for this room: Dining Table, Dining Chairs, China Cabinet/Hutch, Sideboard, Fine China, Silverware, Serving Dishes, Artwork, Area Rug, Lighting Fixtures.
Master Bedroom
Description
Make/Model
Serial Number
Date Purchased (Approx.)
Original Cost (Approx.)
Photo (Y/N)
Suggested Items for this room: Bed Frame, Mattress/Box Spring, Dresser/Chest of Drawers, Nightstands, Wardrobe, Lamps, Television, Jewellery, Clothing (high value), Artwork, Rugs, Electronics.
Additional Bedrooms (Guest, Children's)
Description
Make/Model
Serial Number
Date Purchased (Approx.)
Original Cost (Approx.)
Photo (Y/N)
Suggested Items for this room: Bed Frames, Mattresses, Dressers, Nightstands, Desks/Chairs, Toys (high value), Electronics, Artwork.
Bathrooms
Description
Make/Model
Serial Number
Date Purchased (Approx.)
Original Cost (Approx.)
Photo (Y/N)
Suggested Items for this room: Linens/Towels (high value sets), Artwork, Small Appliances (hair dryer, straightener), Decor.
Home Office / Den
Description
Make/Model
Serial Number
Date Purchased (Approx.)
Original Cost (Approx.)
Photo (Y/N)
Suggested Items for this room: Desk, Office Chair, Computer (Desktop/Laptop), Monitor(s), Printer/Scanner, Filing Cabinet, Bookshelves, Books (collections), Office Equipment, Artwork.
Miscellaneous & High-Value Items (Not in a specific room)
Use this section for anything valuable that might not fit neatly into a room category, such as jewellery not typically stored in a bedroom, or significant collections.
Description
Make/Model
Serial Number
Date Purchased (Approx.)
Original Cost (Approx.)
Photo (Y/N)
Suggested Items for this section: Fine Jewellery, Watches, Furs, Art Collections, Coin/Stamp Collections, Musical Instruments, Sporting Memorabilia, Valuable Electronics (drones, high-end cameras).