Queensland Flood Hits Like A Sandbag

Nov. 24, 2008 - PRLog -- As Queensland recovers again from floodwaters, residents are hopefully better preparing themselves for the next time. Experts say one simple thing to do, is to create a Home Inventory of all property and contents.

A Home Inventory is vital for many reasons. It is the record and the documentation required for when you need to make an insurance claim for lost, stolen, or damaged property. At this time you will be asked to provide a list of affected items, including the quantity, description, and value of each item. You will also need copies of bills or receipts and other documentation to support your claim.

“Relying on your memory during the stressful time following a disaster, emergency or theft, can be an expensive mistake. Not only are you likely to forget something, but you may need to provide proof of ownership to your insurance company”, said Andrew Goodfellow, a Senior Inventory Consultant with Aussie Home Inventories. A Home Inventory Service based on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, Australia.

“You will only be compensated for your loss, based on the proof you provide. Some individuals have been shocked when they received only 30-50% of the value of their insured loss, because they could not provide proof” Goodfellow added.

Although floods are one threat, a more realistic danger to residents comes from more mundane causes such as burglary, fires, and non-catastrophic storms. Conducting a Home Inventory can provide peace of mind. It is hoped that it will soon be integrated into the insurance industry and required by your insurance supplier.

Goodfellow provides tips on conducting a home inventory for insurance purposes;

Take One Room At A Time -
Make a list of each item in the room. Be as detailed as possible. Open drawers, closets, and built-in cabinets.

Be Thorough -
Don’t forget the garage, storage shed, and attic. Often-forgotten items include sports equipment, lawn gear, and BBQ grills.

Record All Vital Details -
Include the description of items, model number, serial number, colour and manufacturers name. Also include a description of where or how the item was obtained, the date of purchase and age. Include a receipt or other proof of purchase, showing cost. List the current value and / or replacement cost if known. Attach any appraisals for items that may have increased in value since purchase, such as antiques, artworks and jewellery.

Digitally Record Your Possessions -
Digital images will show ownership and condition of the item, as of the date of the inventory. To substantiate the date take an image of the daily newspaper.

Update Your Inventory at Least Once a Year -
Add all the new items you’ve purchased in the last year and don’t forget to remove items you no longer own.

Keep A Copy of Your Inventory Off-Site -
If you suffer a fire at home, your inventory will not be safe in a desk drawer. Mail a copy of your inventory to a trusted friend, or relative living elsewhere. Most important is to not leave a copy of the inventory on the PC, as this is one of the first items stolen.

“We encourage people to do their own inventories" said Goodfellow, "However many people don’t have the time and some people like the security and accuracy that a Home Inventory Service offers.”

Aussie Home Inventories offers a free DIY Home Inventory List, available from  their website at www.aussiehomeinventories.com.au

Recent Queensland flood coverage by the media provides all Australians with a good reminder to conduct, or update their home inventory. “Loss is random, preparation is not” says Goodfellow. “We hope you won’t need it, but if you do, you’ll be glad you did! Nothing can replace your hard earned possessions, but getting through the recovery faster, with less hassle, is certainly worth it!”

# # #

Helping households, property owners and small business to prepare for loss. Increasing their prospects of recovery, proving ownership and condition of property. Recording property for people concerned about loss through disaster, emergency and theft. Supplying photographic : database & written inventories, help / assistance on disaster preparation and emergency evacuation procedures.