Why a rough inventory helps
When a home is lost to wildfire, the insurer still expects a personal property inventory. Families who lived through fires like Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon or the 2024 South Fork and Salt fires near Ruidoso know how overwhelming that list is. Starting with room totals shows whether you are near your Coverage C limit — which tells you how much detail the full inventory will need.
How to use the result
- Inventory well above the limit: the limit is likely the ceiling. Focus on documenting enough to reach it.
- Inventory below the limit: every item you remember adds value. Work room by room, closet by closet.
- Check the policy: some policies waive itemization or pay a percentage of Coverage C after a total loss. Ask the carrier in writing.
What it leaves out
Special-limit items (jewelry, firearms, cash, collectibles), additional living expense and debris removal are separate. The averages you enter are yours; the defaults are illustrative only.
Questions about this estimator
Do I need receipts for everything?
Usually not, but you need a reasonable description, age and replacement price for each item. Photos, videos, bank records and online order histories all help.
Can appraisal resolve a contents dispute?
Often, if the disagreement is about value rather than coverage. Contents appraisals turn on item descriptions and pricing support.
Is anything I type saved or sent?
No. The tool runs entirely in your browser. Close the page and the numbers are gone.