How do I document my collection for insurance purposes?

Start with a written inventory. For each item, record a description, maker or artist, approximate age, size, materials, condition, where and when you got it, and what you paid. Photograph each piece from several angles, including signatures, marks, and any existing damage. A video walk-through of each room is a helpful backup.

Keep supporting papers: receipts, appraisals, certificates, provenance records, and correspondence about the item. For valuable pieces, a professional appraisal written for insurance replacement value is often what insurers want when you schedule items.

Store copies somewhere other than your home, such as a safe deposit box, a trusted relative, or secure cloud storage. Update the inventory when you buy or sell, and review it periodically. If you ever need to file a claim after a fire or theft, good records can make the difference between a smooth process and a long, frustrating dispute.