Last Updated on July 29, 2025 by The Insurance Pros
Does your home in Michigan have an inventory list prepared for potential losses?
Creating a Michigan home inventory may not sound excitingâbut itâs one of the smartest ways to protect yourself financially. A current home inventory can expedite insurance claims and guarantee equitable reimbursement in the event of a fire, flood, or theft.
đ Why You Need a Home Inventory
Try making a list of everything in just your living roomâitâs harder than you think. Wall art, electronics, rugs, lamps, and furniture all add up quickly. A complete inventory helps you document the value of your personal property and proves what you own if you need to file a claim.
đ„ Modern Ways to Create a Home Inventory (2025 Update)
- Use your smartphone to take photos or videos of every room, closet, and drawer.
- Scan or photograph receipts for electronics, furniture, or big-ticket items.
- Download a free app like Sortly or Encircle to digitally track everything with cloud backup.
- Use Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets with a template to log model numbers, serials, and costs.
đ Include These High-Value Items
Donât forget jewelry, antiques, tools, and collectibles. Certain items might require special coverageâplease consult your agent regarding scheduled personal property endorsements for high-value belongings.
đ§ Why an Inventory Matters in a Claim
Insurance adjusters require proof. A home inventory helps document your losses and often results in faster claims processing and fewer disputes. It can also help verify ownership when items are stolen.
đ Download Your Michigan Home Inventory Checklist
Keeping a home inventory doesnât have to be complicated. Weâve created a simple printable checklist to help you document your belongings room by room.
Use it to stay organized and protect your assets in case of loss or damage.
â đ Download the Michigan Home Inventory Checklist (PDF)
đ Risk of Skipping a Home Inventory
Without a list, homeowners often forget to claim everyday items like kitchenware, décor, tools, and even clothing. These smaller items can add up to thousands in unclaimed losses after a major event.
âïž Where and How to Store Your Inventory
- Save to the cloud (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive)
- Back up on a USB drive kept outside your home
- Email the file to yourself or a trusted family member
- Print and store a paper copy in a fireproof safe or off-site
đ Update Your Inventory Regularly
Set a calendar reminder to update your list once a year or whenever you make a major purchase, move homes, or renovate. Donât forget to revise your inventory after birthdays, holidays, or seasonal changes.
đŁ Final Tip
Start with one room and build your list over time. You’ll thank yourself later. Also, donât forget to organize your emergency documents and store them in a secure location.