Home Inventory After Fire or Flood: Recovery Checklist

If you’re reading this after a disaster has struck, we’re sorry for what you’re going through. This guide will help you navigate the recovery process as smoothly as possible.

Immediate Steps (First 24-48 Hours)

1. Safety First

• Don’t enter your home until authorities say it’s safe
• Document the scene from outside if possible
• Take photos/video of damage before cleanup begins

2. Contact Insurance

Call your insurance company immediately:

• Report the loss
• Ask about living expenses coverage (ALE)
• Get your claim number
• Request a copy of your policy if needed

3. Document Everything

Before any cleanup or repairs:

• Photograph all damage extensively
• Video walkthrough with narration
• Keep damaged items for adjuster inspection
• Start a written log of everything you do

Working with Your Insurance Company

The Adjuster Visit

When the adjuster comes:

• Be present for the inspection
• Point out all damage (they may miss hidden issues)
• Provide your existing documentation (inventory, receipts)
• Take notes on everything discussed

If You Had a Home Inventory

Your preparation is about to pay off:

• Provide your complete inventory list
• Share photos and receipts you saved
• Export reports from your inventory app

If you used Dib or similar apps, your cloud-stored inventory survived the disaster—this is exactly why digital backup matters.

If You Didn’t Have an Inventory

This is harder, but not impossible:

• Check credit card and bank statements for purchases
• Look through phone photos for evidence of items
• Ask friends/family for photos taken in your home
• Check email for receipts and confirmations
• Walk through each room mentally and list what was there

Creating a Claim Inventory (After the Fact)

Work room by room:

For Each Room, Document:

1. Furniture — Type, brand, approximate age
2. Electronics — May be registered with manufacturers
3. Appliances — Serial numbers might be on file with service companies
4. Clothing — Estimate quantities by category
5. Personal items — Jewelry, collectibles, hobby equipment

Finding Documentation

• Receipts: Check email for online purchases
• Serial numbers: Check warranty registrations
• Photos: Social media, phone backups, photos shared with others
• Estimates: Research current replacement costs online

Preventing Future Heartache

If you’re rebuilding, start your home inventory immediately:

1. Photograph during reconstruction — Document before things are covered up
2. Save all receipts — For new purchases and repairs
3. Use a proper app — Cloud backup is non-negotiable
4. Document as you unpack — Easiest time to catalog

Apps like Dib make this process faster with AI that identifies items from photos. You’ve learned the hard way why inventory matters—don’t skip it in your rebuilt home.

Getting Help

FEMA Assistance

If you’re in a federally declared disaster area:

• Register at DisasterAssistance.gov
• May qualify for grants and low-interest loans
• Applies even if you have insurance

State and Local Resources

Check for:

• Emergency housing assistance
• Utility reconnection help
• Debris removal programs
• Permit fee waivers

Emotional Support

Disaster recovery is emotionally exhausting:

• It’s normal to feel overwhelmed
• Accept help from friends and family
• Consider talking to a counselor
• Take breaks when needed

Your Recovery Checklist

• Confirm safety before entering
• Contact insurance immediately
• Document all damage thoroughly
• File your insurance claim
• Provide inventory/documentation
• Track all expenses and save receipts
• Apply for FEMA assistance if applicable
• Start new inventory as you rebuild

The Bottom Line

Recovery takes time. Be patient with the process, document everything, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself with insurance companies.

And when you’re settled in your rebuilt home, create that inventory you wish you’d had. Apps like Dib make it easier than ever—and your future self will be grateful for the protection.