Keep the record with the thing it explains.

Keep the foundational property records

Preserve the closing packet exactly as received, including the Closing Disclosure, promissory note, mortgage or deed of trust, and deed as applicable. Keep current insurance policies, inspection reports, permits, surveys, plans, tax records, and association documents where they can be found securely.

Give each major system a short identity

For HVAC, water heating, appliances, pumps, generators, solar equipment, and similar systems, keep the make, model, serial number, installation date, warranty, manual, service company, and service history together. A clear rating-plate photo is often the fastest useful starting point.

Document condition and value before you need proof

FEMA recommends maintaining a detailed property inventory and recording descriptions including year, make, and model where appropriate. Photos or video can help, and valuable items may warrant an appraisal. Store the inventory somewhere you can access after a disaster rather than relying on a single device or location.

• Use descriptive filenames and dates instead of leaving camera names unchanged.
• Attach repair photos and invoices to the system or area repaired.
• Keep sensitive legal, financial, identity, and account documents in storage appropriate to their risk; a home-maintenance app does not need every sensitive document you own.
• Review insurance and the inventory after significant purchases, renovations, or changes in replacement cost.