Why a Home Inventory Matters
After a hurricane, many homeowners struggle to recall exactly what they owned and what it was worth. Without documentation, insurance claims for contents losses can be significantly reduced or disputed. A home inventory provides the evidence your insurer needs to process your claim accurately and efficiently.
Following Hurricane Irma in 2017, many Sint Maarten residents found that their contents claims were delayed or underpaid because they could not substantiate the value of lost items. A home inventory created before the storm would have made a significant difference.
How to Create Your Home Inventory
The most effective home inventory combines video walkthroughs, photographs, and a written or spreadsheet record. Walk through each room with your phone camera, narrating what you see and noting approximate values. Then supplement this with a written list for high-value items.
Living Room & Common Areas
- Sofas, chairs, and tables (brand, model, purchase price)
- Television and entertainment systems (serial numbers)
- Artwork, decorative items, and rugs (estimated value)
- Lighting fixtures and ceiling fans
- Musical instruments
Kitchen & Appliances
- Refrigerator, stove, dishwasher (brand, model, serial number)
- Microwave, coffee maker, and small appliances
- Cookware, cutlery, and kitchenware sets
- Food storage items and pantry goods (approximate value)
Bedrooms
- Beds, mattresses, and bedroom furniture
- Clothing and footwear (estimated total value per person)
- Jewellery and watches (individual valuations recommended)
- Personal electronics: laptops, tablets, phones
Electronics & Technology
- All computers and peripherals (serial numbers)
- Cameras and photography equipment
- Gaming consoles and accessories
- Smart home devices and security systems
Outdoor & Storage Areas
- Garden furniture and outdoor equipment
- Tools and power equipment (brand, model)
- Bicycles, scooters, and recreational equipment
- Stored seasonal items and holiday decorations
High-Value Items Require Special Attention
Jewellery, fine art, antiques, collectibles, and high-end electronics may exceed the standard contents coverage limits in your policy. These items often require a separate scheduled items endorsement or a standalone valuables policy. Have high-value items professionally appraised and keep the appraisal documents with your inventory.
Speak with your Compass Insurances advisor to confirm whether your current contents policy adequately covers your most valuable possessions. Gaps in coverage for high-value items are one of the most common surprises policyholders encounter after a loss.
Where to Store Your Home Inventory
Cloud Storage
Upload photos, videos, and spreadsheets to a cloud service such as Google Drive or iCloud. This ensures your inventory survives even if your home is destroyed.
Off-Island Backup
Email a copy of your inventory to a trusted family member or friend outside Sint Maarten. This provides an additional backup independent of local infrastructure.
Waterproof Physical Copy
Keep a printed copy of your inventory in a waterproof, fireproof container along with your insurance policy documents and identification.
Annual Review
Update your home inventory at least once a year and whenever you make significant purchases. An outdated inventory may not reflect the true value of your contents.
Are your contents adequately insured?
Once you have completed your home inventory, share it with your Compass Insurances advisor. We can review your contents coverage and ensure your policy reflects the true value of your possessions.