Prepare for the questions after the storm.

Keep essential information reachable

A household inventory, insurance documents and receipts can support an insurance conversation after a loss. Keep them in a secure location that will remain accessible if the home is damaged. Avoid making your only copy dependent on a device kept in the same room as the paper originals.

Build a recovery folder

• Current policy documents and your insurer’s verified claims contact.
• A room-by-room photo or written inventory and receipts for significant purchases.
• Emergency contacts, household needs and an agreed way to reconnect.
• Important property repair records and contractor information.
• A record of where secure backup copies are stored.

Consider who in the household can access the information when you cannot. Store access instructions securely, away from publicly shared documents.

Practice the useful parts

Can you locate the current policy without searching old email? Can another household member find the shutoff information or emergency contacts? Can you reach your backup records from another device? These simple checks can reveal a practical gap before an urgent event.

After a loss

Follow emergency instructions and put safety first. Contact the insurer through its verified channel, follow policy duties and keep a dated record of communications and expenses. Do not enter unsafe areas to gather photographs. Ask the insurer about documentation and repairs before assuming an expense will be reimbursed.