No pre-loss documentation

Helpful tips when a loss occurs and there is no pre-loss documentation

First: Plan of action:

Trying to create a list of all items you own and now are gone can be very stressful, so having a plan of how you are going to accomplish this will help.

It is helpful to have an inventory form to work from; your insurance company can provide you with an inventory list to work from.

Try to remember all the items that you owned and from that list create lost, missing or damaged items. Start with one room or area at a time. It is helpful to try to recreate the area and visualize all the items where the loss occurred. Draw a floor plan with placement of items; repeat this process several times as this may help you remember additional items each time you do this.

Second: List of all lost items now you need details:

Now that the list is completed, try to provide as much detailed information as you can find such as: make, model and serial numbers, brand names, values, place of purchase, include any photos of the items etc.


Tips on where to look and search for this information:

1. Contact places you normally shop, they may have records of items purchased

2. Walking through the store may trigger your memory

3. Friends/family may have photos or videos showing lost items

4. Family stories may help with recollecting

5. Gifts received, giver may have required information

6. Magazines, caloques may jog memory

7. Warranties, manuals, receipts etc.

8. Sources such as credit companies, bank statements ...

As you make your list, it is wise to take your time, you may want to make a note that this is a partial list, you may remember additional items later.

*Important to keep records of all contact persons, phone/e-mail and date contacted, during the claim process.