What if something horrible happened to your grooming space? A fire, smoke damage, a flood, heavy storm damage, or a robbery. Imagine trying to explain to your insurance agent every lost or damaged item. It would be overwhelming. How many clipper blades did you actually have? How many sets of expensive shears?
Insurance companies encourage home and business owners to keep an updated inventory of their possessions. Apps can be downloaded and used, or you can create simple folders or spreadsheets to fit your specific needs.
An inventory is a list of all the items, especially those of value, in and around your business. Although this project may seem daunting, it is worthwhile.
The best inventory will include photographs and detailed descriptions of any items that might need to be replaced in the event of an insurance claim. If you have receipts for items, you can add them to your inventory, but if not, you can record details such as approximately when you purchased each item and where. If there are identifying serial numbers on any item, record those as well.
One good way to get started is to video your workspace. Start at the door and work around the entire area. You can verbally list what you are looking at as you go, for instance, “Here is my Pet Lift Walk-in tub. I bought it in 2023 from Pet Edge.” As you do your walking tour, you will find it easier to be aware of the items as you film them, and you can later rewind and create a written, more detailed list. Don’t forget appliances like your washing machine and dryer or items like your dehumidifier, portable heaters, or air conditioners.
Look through storage closets and note what might need to be replaced. Notate everything from your hand tools to your computer, point of sale system, telephone system, and office equipment.
If you sell retail at your business, you may already have an inventory of saleable items. If not, you should.
Once your inventory is completed, copy all images, videos, and notes and store them somewhere other than your business.
Remember to add to your inventory any time you purchase new equipment, and if you have not been in the habit of saving receipts, start doing so now.
Hopefully, you will never have a reason to submit an insurance claim for your valuable grooming tools and property, but if you do, having a comprehensive, up-to-date inventory will make the process far less complicated and stressful.
