No one ever expects anything bad to happen to their home. But it is always best to be prepared - as it is hard enough to deal with the trauma of the event and not to add to that by trying to figure out what to do.

Here are 5 key tips to ensure you are prepared if any type of damage or theft were to occur to your home. Not being prepared with the answers to these questions could create an unexpected financial impact.

1) How much coverage do you have for personal property. If the value of your personal property exceeds what is listed on your insurance policy - you will not be reimbursed for the difference.
2) Do you have your valuables covered under a special rider? Items such as jewelry, guns, coins, etc. are covered up to a certain limit amount on your insurance policy. If what you own, exceeds this limit and you do not have a rider to cover the full value, you will not be reimbursed for the difference.
3) Do you need to submit a list of all the damaged or missing items at one time or can you submit items as you think of them? Some insurance companies will only accept one comprehensive list - while other companies are a little more lenient.
4) What is the time limit to submit your list of items to your insurance company? The time frame varies from one year to two.
5) Do you have a list of what you own? If your policy states you have $300,000 replacement value - this does not mean you will automatically receive this amount. You will still need to provide a list of what was damaged, destroyed or lost before any reimbursement is made.

For further benefits of a home or business inventory, visit http://www.jlksystems.com/

I recently read an article that lists the top 10 security tips to keep your home secure. This list was compiled by the police. The ninth tip was " Have an up-to-date home inventory that includes pictures. Keep a complete copy somewhere outside your house." www.bloggernews.net/124616

This was not the first time that I have read how law enforcement values a home inventory report. They know that the more information a person has regarding their property - the easier it will be to locate it. Such information includes an accurate description, model and/or serial number and photos.

If you don't have the time to invest in compiling your own inventory - there are many companies that can do this for you. It will be well worth your investment.

For further information regarding a home or business inventory, visit www.jlksystems.com

I learned years ago that it is better to be proactive - than reactive. It is looking at the big picture and putting into place - steps or items that will ensure you know what to do if an emergency or disaster occurs as well as serves as a form of protection.

One should always be proactive with their home. Some good examples of being proactive is having home owners insurance, installing fire detectors, placing security lights around the outside of your home, installing sump pumps, having a survival kit, etc. While none of these will prevent damage or theft to your home - you are ready and the moment something happens - you don't need to try and figure out what to do.

A home inventory serves the same purpose. You are immediately ready (proactive) to provide a detailed list of what was damaged or stolen to the insurance adjuster along with proof of ownership - which is required for each insurance claim. This not only allows your claim to begin immediately but ensures you receive the maximum settlement reimbursement.

For additional information regarding a home or business inventory, visit www.jlksystems.com.
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