(1) Know what you want accomplished.  Home Inventory professionals offer many different types of inventories. Before you start your search, have a good idea of what you want done.  For example, do you want basic reports, photographs of high dollar items only, or are you looking for comprehensive reports with photographs?  Maybe you are only interested in a video recording or want a full report including serial and model numbers?  You may want to include your collections or your jewelry?

(2) Ask for references. Most Home Inventory professionals will have a list of previous customers that have agreed to be used as a reference.  But keep in mind, given the confidential nature and sensitivity of what Home Inventory professionals have access to, don’t be surprised if there are only a few references.

(3) A good Home Inventory professional will respect client privacy, security, and confidentiality above all else.  So, make sure you ask telling questions of the references. Such as: “How long did the process take”?  “Were you pleased with the product/service”?  “How many people were in their home”?  “Did you feel completely secure and comfortable during the process”?

(4)  Interview potential companies and review samples of their work.  An experienced Home Inventory professional understands if you ask to meet them at a restaurant or other public place to get to know the company or staff person(s) before you give them your address.  They will also likely expect you to request to view samples (not actual previous inventories), so don’t be shy about asking. 

(5)  Once you have hired the Home Inventory professional, they will need to visit your home to give you an accurate cost of the job.  Although most Home Inventory professionals have a general cost guideline, they can’t be exactly sure of the true cost of a job until they see the residence.

(6) Ask for Proof of Insurance and Bonding.  Remember that you are paying someone to enter your home and giving them access to all of your belongings and valuables.  You cannot be too safe.  After asking for the proof of insurance and bonding, call the insurance company to verify that the
policy is up to date.

(7) Although there currently is no Home Inventory license, many Home Inventory professionals advertise that they are licensed, even though no license exists.  This should be a warning flag.  Double and triple check credentials before you allow a company to do this type of service.

(8)  Always address any concerns or hesitation prior to allowing someone access to your possessions and residence.  Most Home Inventory professionals will go out of their way to make sure you are at ease with their process and that all expectations can be managed successfully by both parties.