About 80% of all insurance industry professionals say claims are
processed 50% to 100% faster if you’ve just done one thing;

Take a home inventory. That could mean the difference between getting a claims check in several days as opposed to several weeks.

You never know when a disaster will strike — whether it’s theft, damage or weather — but when it does, the priority is to restore your life.  A home inventory documents your contents and the value of your possessions to help expedite the claims process.

A good home inventory starts with two key steps: establishing proof of ownership and including accurate descriptions of your household items. For example, on big-ticket items such as hot tubs or big-screen televisions, record the serial numbers and the make and model of the item. Photos are a good idea, as are including any professional appraisals on such things as jewelry and paintings.

Record your appraisal on a computer with a backup system, a mobile phone or computer tablet app — or on paper, as long as it is protected in some way, such as locked in a safe. Whatever you do, make sure you start and finish that inventory and keep it updated.
Choose whatever inventory process helps you get the initial work done and, importantly … update regularly.  If you suffer a loss — whether a lost piece of jewelry or a fire — you’ll be glad you’re prepared.

source: yahoo