Why White House Home Inventory?
Our mission is to deliver a confidential,comprehensive and independent home inventory service to homeowners through professionally trained inventory specialists with the highest degree of integrity in the industry.
What is a Home Inventory?
A home inventory is a detailed list of the personal property located in your home. You should also include property that you have stored outside the home. This would include garages, tool sheds, or other offsite storage facilities. Your home inventory list should include: furniture, electronics, jewelry, artwork, antiques, appliances, kitchen contents and special collections, etc.
Why have a professional inventory done?
In the event of a loss due to fire, theft, burglary or other catastrophe an inventory with details, video and digital pictures will provide:
- Third party detailed inventory for insurance claims.
- The required documentation to prove ownership and value of your possessions.
- Help you to evaluate whether or not you have enough personal property coverage.
- It is also a tool for discussing your insurance needs with your agent, and helps you to make decisions about your coverage.
Your inventory also has several other valuable uses:
- Estate planning: Ensure that your children or executor of your estate know what you own, their value and history (especially for items that have been handed down through the generations). The items you own are also part of your overall net worth. If your estate is large enough you may be faced with additional taxes. Knowing what you own can assist you in making your estate decisions and greatly reduce the stress your family or loved ones will be faced with upon your death.
- Moving: If you’re planning a move your documentation will come in handy if items should be lost or damaged. You will have the proof you need to file a claim.
Are there times, other than yearly, that I should consider updating my home inventory?
Yes, you should have us update your inventory after major holidays (such as Christmas, Hanukkah or Birthdays) as well as Anniversary’s, Weddings and major home renovations.
What about confidentiality?
All information gathered during your inventory is held and protected at all times. We do not sell, rent or otherwise give your information to anyone. We use a unique numbering system that does not identify you or your property address. All client information is kept confidential. Prior to the inventory a Privacy and Confidentiality Agreement is signed and given to you. At the completion of the inventory all information is destroyed unless you have requested that we store your information. (See additional services for more information.)
What does my insurance company require?
Each insurance company sets their own requirements for their claims process. Most insurance companies do request documentation of your belongings to substantiate your claim. Documentation requirements can and usually do include photographs, item identifiers (model, serial no’s) and cost of items.
Do I need to be present during the home inventory process?
Yes, you must be present while we are working in your home. Every item documented will need to have some basic detailed questions answered that only you will be able to answer.
How long will it take to complete the inventory?
For a standard home approximately four to six hours is needed depending on the amount of property you have to document. We walk through your home room by room filming, taking digital photographs and writing specifications and detailed descriptions, serial or model numbers and any other pertinent information. The disruption to your routine is very minimal as a majority of the work is then completed at the office.
Are appraisals provided?
White House Home Inventory and their employees are not certified appraisers. Values are stated only by the property owners, receipts or prior appraisals. If an item requires an appraisal we will be more than happy to refer you to a certified appraiser.
What about items in storage…do I need to unpack them?
Yes, if you have items that you want to be included in your inventory, items will have to be unpacked prior to the appointment. Part of the billing for the service price quoted is based on a maximum amount of time. Also, to preserve your privacy, we do not open boxes, drawers or closets.
What if I need help unpacking or would like help with organizing prior to my appointment?
White House Home Inventory has a sister company that can assist you with such tasks. Visit: www.ExtraYou.net
What condition does my home have to be in for your appointment?
Children, pets, toys, etc., are no problem. We are there to document your personal property only. No need to change your everyday life style for us. |
