Insurance appraisals, both prior to and after a disaster are crucial to protecting your investments.

For many insurance claims of personal property damage, you need to have evidence that the property existed before the event and often just a picture will not be accepted. Often, proof of ownership is required when a damage claim is filed and any items with fair to significant value, must have proper documentation associated with the item before your insurance policy will even consider covering the loss.

It may also behoove the client to have an insurance appraisal for the items that individually may exceed the lump sum provided by the personal property coverage on their insurance policy. We always recommend discussing this with your insurance provider. Often, once the value is added up after an event the sum of the damages are often much more than what the coverage allows and the insured is the one who often loses in a total loss claim. An appraisal can make sure you have the property coverage and proof of ownership you need, at the appropriate valuations to protect your assets.

Check with your insurance agent to see if a personal property appraisal would better protect and identify your assets. Making sure you are properly covered in the event of a loss is critical.