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Emergency Roof Leak Steps

If your roof is leaking or you know it will during the next storm, read about the steps you can take to stem the flow of water. Read more...

Make a Video Inventory of Your Home

We all hope that we will never need to file an insurance claim. However, in the event of a loss, a video inventory of your possessions and features of your home can be invaluable in substantiating your claim with your insurer.

We recommend using a fresh tape, turn on every light in your home, open drapes, open all doors and cabinets and start filming.

Start at the front door, walk slowly into your home and slowly scan the room. Walk up to possessions and take close-ups shots to show brand names, model numbers and serial numbers whenever possible.

It is better to make this tape too long than too short. Show everything, china, knick-knacks, suits, dresses, jewelry, coin collections, art. If your home has upgraded features such as special moulding, granite counters, high-end faucets, get it all on record.

Don't forget to film the outside of your home too and the contents of your garage, shed and other outbuildings.

Because the worst-case scenario is a total loss of your home, it is wise to store this video record away from your home. A safe deposit box is ideal, although the back of desk drawer at work or at a trusted family member's home will work too.