Photograph condition, not just contents
Take wide photographs of every room, then closer images of high-value items, appliance model labels, electrical panels, water shutoffs, HVAC equipment, roof and ceiling areas, windows, doors, pool equipment, lanai screens, and the exterior. Include serial numbers when they are visible.
A dated walk-through creates a baseline. If a ceiling stain, cracked window, failed appliance, or pool problem appears later, the owner and responder have something concrete to compare.
Record the home's normal operating condition
- ✓
Indoor temperature and humidity at departure.
- ✓
Thermostat, humidistat, irrigation, pool, and generator settings.
- ✓
Locations of shutoffs, panels, filters, drains, and monitoring devices.
- ✓
Current service dates and known equipment concerns.
- ✓
Written exceptions—anything already stained, cracked, noisy, or awaiting repair.
Keep the record reachable
Store the inventory, policy, vendor contacts, inspection reports, and authorization notes somewhere you can reach without being inside the house. Give your local representative only the information needed to respond, and review the file whenever a system, vendor, or access method changes.
Sources and scope
This original guide combines Safe Nest Home Watch field experience with the references below. It is general planning information, not insurance, legal, engineering, mold-assessment, or contractor advice. Follow your policy, licensed professionals, equipment instructions, and local requirements.