Contents claim checklist (for adjusters and agents to hand clients)

The contents schedule is where homeowner claims stall. Print this page or send the link to your client the day you take the file. Free, no signup, no branding to remove beyond the footer.

Print this checklist Free inventory for your first client

Day 1: protect the record

• ☐ Do not throw anything away until the adjuster has seen it or it is photographed
• ☐ Photograph and video every room, including damaged items, before cleanup
• ☐ Keep receipts for emergency spending (hotel, meals, clothing): often covered as ALE
• ☐ Write down the claim number, adjuster name and the deadline for the contents inventory

Build the list, room by room

• ☐ Living room, kitchen, each bedroom, bathrooms, office, garage, attic, basement, shed, patio
• ☐ Open every closet, drawer and cabinet (clothes, kitchenware and tools are most of the value)
• ☐ For each item: description, brand/model, quantity, age, where bought, replacement cost new
• ☐ Flag jewelry, art, collectibles, firearms, cash: these usually have sub-limits

Proof of ownership sources

• ☐ Phone camera roll and cloud backups (search by room or holiday)
• ☐ Email order confirmations: Amazon, Target, Best Buy, Home Depot, Walmart order history
• ☐ Bank and credit card statements for the last 2 to 5 years
• ☐ Social media posts, family photos, warranty registrations, appliance manuals

Before you submit

• ☐ Totals per room and for the home, checked against the Coverage C limit
• ☐ Replacement cost vs actual cash value: know which one the policy pays and what's held back as depreciation
• ☐ Keep a copy of everything you send, and send it in a format the carrier accepts (spreadsheet + PDF)
• ☐ Ask in writing for any recoverable depreciation once items are replaced

General information, not legal or insurance advice. Policy terms, sub-limits and deadlines vary by carrier and state.