Q: I know there is software available so I could make my own home inventory. Why should I choose Braun Inventory Specialists to create the records for me when I can do it on my own?

A: Although there are quite an array of home inventory software packages on the market, some easier than others to use, they all have something in common – you must take the time to document, photograph, videotape each object, itemize collections, find and write down serial numbers and pertinent details. And then you will need to organize it all, input all the data, photos, video, into the program on your computer, make discs or CD copies, print out photos and hard copies, get a secure box or container to store them safely. The manufacturers of these software programs all admit that this will take a minimum of 12-14 hours of time, for a basic inventory of an average sized home. Do you have that time to spend – and, more importantly, will you get around to doing it? Braun Inventory Specialists, with their proven methods of organization, will handle this tedious, time-consuming work for you – and, because this is our business and we know what we are doing – we will do it in the time that you would spend on a leisurely lunch with friends. You will have your personal possessions fully documented and in one place in a secure, zippered case that you can access quickly in case of need. Isn’t your time worth that difference?

Q: I already started my inventory and have digital photos of most of my possessions. But I find I don’t have the time or energy to complete this. Can you help?

A: Of course! No matter where you are in your inventory process, we are flexible and our main concern is to get your inventory completed. Although the general prices (link to Pricing) quoted on this site include a complete inventory with visuals and text documentation, we can also provide partial services.

However, we would also need to see and advise you on the quality of the photos and the format before giving you a quote to complete your inventory as having the photos cross-referenced to written details, such as serial numbers, appraisals, is an important feature. We do want to make sure that you will have all the information you need, when you need it.

Q: Why wouldn’t my homeowner’s policy be sufficient to cover any claims?

A: This is a question I hear all the time! On a humanitarian level, insurance companies are sympathetic to persons who have undergone a loss or crisis. That said, they still require proper documentation for claims. Insurance industry claims and reimbursement are based on what they call “standards” and “assumptions.” For example, unless you specifically furnish them with documentation stating you have a valuable 50-inch plasma TV, with a value of over $7000, your “color TV” claim may only be reimbursed as a “standard” 27 inch set, worth around $400. Check with your insurance provider.

Q: What is the cost of an inventory?

A: The base cost of your inventory will be on the square footage of your home. It will also vary depending on the quantity of art, antiques, and/or other collection items that need to be individually documented. To give you an idea, a home of up to 2000 sq ft with an average quantity of furnishings will be around $1000. If you wanted to photograph and record individually your large collection of antique dolls, then that would be charged at an hourly rate. For further information, please contact us and we will be happy to discuss these options with you.

Any financial planner would agree that having an inventory of your personal property is an excellent investment. And it is certainly an affordable way to insure that your property will be documented and protected in case of loss.

Q: How long will it take to make my home inventory?

A: With our proven methods of organization, a standard inventory (link to Pricing) of a 2000 sq. ft home with average furnishings and items will take just 2-3 hours. Extensive collections that need more detailed cataloging are charged on an hourly basis and vary depending on your needs.

Q: What do I need to do to prepare for the inventory?

A: When our staff visits your home for the inventory, they will assess what needs to be done and how to organize their time. However, you can help the process by indicating any valuables such as original art, antiques, jewelry, electronics or appraised possessions that may need special focus. Having on hand any important documents, appraisals and receipts to include with your inventory will also make everything go smoothly.

You do not need to do anything special to your home to prepare for the inventory – our desire is to make it as stress-free as possible for you and we are there strictly to record your personal property. For a home up to 3000 sq ft with an average amount of furnishings, you will need to set aside 2-3 hours for the process.

Q: How will you document my home and personal possessions?

A: Using our system, we make a video recording of your home’s contents and take as many digital photos as needed for accurate documentation. We will also document and cross-reference your existing appraisal papers. As an optional service, we have appraiser partners who can authenticate and document valuables.

Q: What types of items need documenting?

A: We advise that you document your environment and personal property overall, but in particular, such valuables as art, antiques, fine furniture and carpets, electronics, musical instruments, appliances, collectibles and collections, jewelry and china. It is particularly important to include items that are appraised and which are mentioned in your present homeowner’s policy.

Q: If I am not an art collector nor have valuable possessions, why would I need your services?

A: Think about it… Even though you may not have valuables in the literal sense of the word, there are undoubtedly many things you own – maybe your computer, your kitchen appliances, your exercise machine – even your new pillow top mattress - which would take thousands of dollars to replace if lost in a fire or other natural disaster.

Your home insurance covers all your possessions. But what would you do if you had to sit down and make a list of everything you owned – when it was no longer there? Statistics prove that in a crisis, people will only recall 40-60% of what they own. Now, wouldn’t it be better to already have that complete list?

Q: I already have receipts and appraisals of my jewelry and antiques, so wouldn’t this be enough? Why would I need pictures or video to include them in an inventory?

A: Well, certainly you are farther ahead of the game than many people! But what would happen if Grandpa Bernard’s antique pocket watch was stolen? Sure, you would recoup the value that was declared on your policy, plus a bit more, with adjustment to today’s values. But how would you go about describing this watch to the police or an antique dealer without close-up visual documentation? And how could you put a dollar amount on the sentimental value of this treasure? At least with photos, you could locate a similar watch to pass on to your heirs, should you want to do this. Or you would have a much better chance of finding and claiming the watch, should it surface in a pawnshop or police round up.

Q: My security system seems to work well and I have never had a break in or fire. Why would I need your services?

A: I am happy you never have had to deal with a burglary, vandalism or a fire – that is great news! However, remember that a security system is NOT fool proof, so you might have a somewhat false sense of security. I have heard over and over on radio talk shows and on TV of professional burglars and how easy it is for them to override or disarm the systems. Maybe it will keep the small fry away, but do you want to take that chance??

According to the National Crime Prevention Council, there is a burglary or theft in a US household once every 12 seconds! In many ways, it can be even worse and more upsetting if vandals get in and wreak havoc. Six million homes are vandalized each year. And unfortunately, these statistics are rising, not falling, according to the FBI Uniform Crime Reports and US Department of Justice. Also, in the time it would take for the Fire Department to respond to a fire alarm, many of your possessions -- and dreams – could have already gone up in smoke. A residential fire occurs about every 80 seconds, In these cases, if you have clear records (including photo/video) of what might be missing, you will be far ahead of the game in replacing items or proving their value.

Q: What about updates? If I remodel my home or purchase new furniture, appliances or personal items after the inventory, how can I include those?

A: After one year, you may update your inventory for a small fee.

Q: How long does it take to receive my completed package and how is it delivered?