Fire, theft, vandalism, water damage—if bad luck strikes, having a detailed inventory of your property will help you avoid lots of headaches. Here’s an easy way to accomplish this task.
![Fire, theft, vandalism, water damage](/globalassets/revamp/photo/conseils-photo/20160623-02-photographier-vos-biens/1-lead.jpg)
Why make an inventory of your property?
There are two excellent reasons to draw up a list of your property:
- To verify that the amount of your insurance coverage properly corresponds to the value of your property. It is the policyholder’s responsibility to ensure their insurance is adequate.
- In the event you have to file a claim with your insurer, you will avoid lots of headaches if you’re able to provide a list of your goods supported by photos.
To help you make a list, the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) and the Chambre de l’assurance de dommages (CHAD) offer a property inventory tool you can download for free online.
![Why make an inventory of your property?](/globalassets/revamp/photo/conseils-photo/20160623-02-photographier-vos-biens/2-pourquoi-faire-l-inventaire.jpg)
What should you photograph?
- Scan or photograph receipts of your most valuable assets. With time, the ink on receipts tends to fade.
- Take a photo of each room. They will help you make a list of your property and also serve as visual proof if you file a claim.
- Have your more rare or valuable objects appraised: musical instruments, jewellery, furs—then photograph yourself with the object to prove it belongs to you.
- Be sure to also take photos of your electronic devices and household appliances. These shots will help you demonstrate the condition of your property.
Important:Don’t forget to update your list. Each purchase should add a new line to your inventory, accompanied by photos of the object and its receipt.
![What should you photograph?](/globalassets/revamp/photo/conseils-photo/20160623-02-photographier-vos-biens/3-quoi-prendre-en-photo.jpg)
How to take good photographs
- Improve the quality of your shots by selecting the best possible image resolution on your camera.
- Place the object against a neutral background to make it easier to identify.
- Use natural or indirect light to obtain better contrasts.
- To make your objects easier to identify in the event of theft, photograph them from different angles: front view, profile, back. You can even take close-ups of certain details like logos, scratches, etc.
- To make it easier to identify the object and its size, take a scale photo of the object beside a ruler or measuring tape.
And don’t forget to back up your list and photos on a CD or USB key that you keep at the home of a friend or family member, or at the office.
![How to take good photographs](/globalassets/revamp/photo/conseils-photo/20160623-02-photographier-vos-biens/4-comment-realiser-de-bonnes-photos.jpg)