Five Steps to Understanding the Value of What You Own

Do you know the total value of your possessions? You likely have a sense of the major things you own, but the complete picture can prove difficult to discern. If ever a catastrophe or robbery strikes, your insurance company will ask you to estimate the cumulative worth of your belongings so that you can receive the correct compensation. This can be daunting. No need to worry: by following the steps below you will be able to compile an accurate estimate.

1. Start Big, Go Small

Over time, your home and life have likely become increasingly cluttered with possessions. When making a list and assigning values, start with the bigger stuff (e.g. house, jewelry, art, etc.). This way, you can ease into the process. By the time you get to socks and sundries, you’ll be an expert. As you go, film and photograph everything so you have concrete evidence.

2. Consider the Variables

Of course, the things you own seldom hold their value. In fact, everything will either appreciate or depreciate over time; when doing the math, try to account for this. Also, talk to your insurance broker about the specifics of your policy and whether you will receive payment for a replacement without deduction for depreciation or the item’s value at the time of loss.

3. Ask an Expert

Chances are, you will not have expert knowledge about all of your effects and what they go for. Feel free to reach out to an expert for specific items. For example, if you don’t know what that piece of art you bought a decade ago is valued at, try asking an art dealer.

4. Backup Your List

When you have a solid account of your things, type it out, back it up, then back it up again. You may choose to email it to yourself, store it in the cloud, find a safety deposit box, or share it directly with your insurance company. Furthermore, if you can, keep paper records, tax files, receipts, warranties, government papers, and so on, in an offsite location.

5. Update as You Go

Your possessions can evolve: some material goods you have acquired may gain additional value. Once you know what you have, revisit it every few years to maintain its accuracy. To streamline the process, keep records and receipts every time you make a new purchase.

So, now you know how to determine the value of what you own. Talk to your insurance provider to ensure you have the right coverage for your situation, and update it as needed.

Make sure that your property, automobiles, and RVs are insured properly and review the coverage with a specialist at Access Insurance Group. Get advice, a quote, or make a change in person at one of our many Alberta locations, including Edmonton, Stony Plain, Red Deer, Lacombe, Lloydminster, Olds, and Vermilion.

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