​Introduction:
The insurance industry is evolving rapidly, with significant transformations driven by technology, regulatory changes, and shifting consumer expectations. For clients, understanding these changes is crucial to making informed decisions about their insurance needs. In this article, we’ll explore the major trends, challenges, and opportunities in the 2024 insurance market from the perspective of the client, helping you navigate this dynamic landscape with confidence.

Emerging Trends Impacting Clients1. Personalized Insurance ProductsConsumers are increasingly seeking insurance policies tailored to their specific needs and lifestyles. Insurers are responding by offering more personalized products.

• Customizable Plans: Clients can now select coverage options that best suit their unique circumstances, from home and auto to health and life insurance.
• Flexible Payment Options: Insurers are introducing flexible payment plans, making it easier for clients to manage their budgets and ensure continuous coverage.
• Usage-Based Insurance: Particularly popular in auto insurance, this model allows clients to pay premiums based on their actual usage, potentially lowering costs for infrequent drivers.

2. Enhanced Digital ExperienceThe digital revolution is transforming how clients interact with their insurers, making the process more convenient and user-friendly.

• Mobile Apps: Clients can manage their policies, file claims, and communicate with their insurers directly from their smartphones.
• Online Portals: Comprehensive online platforms offer clients easy access to their insurance information and services at any time.
• AI-Powered Customer Service: Chatbots and virtual assistants provide instant responses to common queries, improving the overall customer experience.

3. Focus on ESG and SustainabilityEnvironmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors are becoming increasingly important to clients, influencing their choice of insurance providers.

• Green Insurance Products: Clients can opt for policies that support sustainable practices, such as coverage for renewable energy projects or eco-friendly vehicles.
• Transparency in ESG Practices: Clients are demanding more transparency about how insurers are integrating ESG principles into their operations.
• Supporting Community Initiatives: Insurers that contribute to social and environmental causes are gaining favor among conscientious clients.

Challenges Clients May Face1. Navigating Cybersecurity ConcernsAs insurance processes become more digital, clients need to be vigilant about cybersecurity.

• Data Protection: Ensuring that personal and financial information is secure is a top priority for clients.
• Understanding Cyber Insurance: With the rise of cyber threats, clients should consider policies that offer protection against cyber attacks and data breaches.
• Staying Informed: Clients need to stay updated on how insurers are safeguarding their data and what measures are in place to prevent breaches.

2. Keeping Up with Regulatory ChangesChanges in insurance regulations can affect policy terms and coverage options, posing a challenge for clients.

• Policy Updates: Clients must stay informed about changes to their policies due to new regulations.
• Compliance Requirements: Understanding new compliance requirements can help clients ensure that they remain adequately covered.
• Consulting Advisors: Seeking advice from insurance professionals can help clients navigate regulatory changes and make informed decisions.

3. Managing Economic UncertaintyEconomic fluctuations can impact insurance premiums and the affordability of coverage for clients.

• Premium Adjustments: Clients should be prepared for potential changes in their premiums due to economic conditions.
• Balancing Coverage and Cost: Finding the right balance between adequate coverage and affordability is crucial during economic uncertainty.
• Exploring Discounts: Clients can look for discounts and bundling options to reduce their insurance costs without sacrificing coverage.

Opportunities for Clients1. Exploring New Insurance MarketsEmerging markets offer clients new and innovative insurance products that cater to diverse needs.

• Microinsurance: Affordable and accessible insurance options for low-income clients.
• On-Demand Insurance: Short-term coverage for specific needs, such as travel or event insurance, offering flexibility and cost savings.
• Localized Solutions: Insurance products tailored to the unique risks and needs of clients in different regions.

2. Leveraging Data and AnalyticsInsurers are using big data and analytics to offer more accurate and competitive pricing, benefiting clients.

• Personalized Quotes: Clients can receive insurance quotes that are more accurately tailored to their risk profiles.
• Proactive Risk Management: Data analytics can help clients identify and mitigate risks before they result in claims.
• Enhanced Claims Processing: Faster and more efficient claims processing through data-driven technologies.

3. Adopting Innovative Coverage OptionsNew and innovative insurance products are being developed to meet the evolving needs of clients.

• Telehealth and Digital Health Insurance: Access to virtual healthcare services and wellness programs through health insurance policies.
• Cyber Insurance: Coverage specifically designed to protect against cyber threats and data breaches.
• Climate-Related Coverage: Insurance products that offer protection against climate-related risks, such as floods and wildfires.

FAQs1. How are insurers personalizing insurance products for clients? Insurers are offering customizable plans, flexible payment options, and usage-based insurance models to better meet individual client needs.
2. What should clients know about cybersecurity in the insurance industry? Clients should ensure their data is protected, understand the benefits of cyber insurance, and stay informed about their insurer's cybersecurity measures.
3. How can clients manage economic uncertainty regarding their insurance? Clients can prepare for premium adjustments, balance coverage with affordability, and explore discounts and bundling options to save costs.

Final ThoughtsThe insurance market in 2024 presents both challenges and opportunities for clients. By staying informed about emerging trends, understanding the potential challenges, and leveraging new opportunities, clients can make the most of their insurance coverage. Personalized products, enhanced digital experiences, and a focus on sustainability are set to redefine the client experience in the insurance industry. Stay proactive, stay informed, and navigate the insurance landscape with confidence!

Why It Matters:
Weather preparedness is not just about knowing when a storm is coming; it’s about taking proactive steps to minimize damage and streamline recovery processes. This involves understanding the risks specific to your area, whether it's hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, or wildfires, and planning accordingly.
How to Prepare:

1. Stay Informed: Use local news and weather apps to keep abreast of weather alerts.
2. Emergency Kit: Ensure you have a basic emergency kit that includes water, non-perishable food, flashlights, a first-aid kit, batteries, and necessary medications.
3. Family Communication Plan: Have a clear plan in place for how you will contact or find each other if you are separated.

Insurance Preparedness: Documentation and InventoriesThe Role of Documentation in Claims:
Proper documentation ensures that you can prove ownership and condition of your belongings, which is crucial when filing insurance claims after a disaster.
How to Document Your Home and Belongings:

1. Take Pictures: Periodically walk through your home with a camera or smartphone. Capture clear photos of each room, focusing on valuable items. Open drawers and closets to document what’s inside.
2. Video Walkthroughs: Consider making a video tour of your home. Narrate the items you’re filming, especially those of high value.
3. Maintain Receipts: Keep receipts for high-ticket items in a safe, easily accessible place, preferably in digital form as well.
4. Update Your Home Inventory List: Regularly update your inventory list. Include descriptions, estimated values, and serial numbers.

Tips for Creating an Effective Inventory ListMaking a Comprehensive List:

• Use Technology: Apps like Sortly, Memento Database, or even a simple spreadsheet can help organize information.
• Be Thorough: List items room by room, and don’t overlook everyday items like clothing and small kitchen appliances.
• Check Your Policy: Understand what your insurance covers. Some items may require additional coverage (e.g., jewelry, art).

How to Store Your Documentation Safely

• Cloud Storage: Use services like Google Drive or Dropbox for easy access and security.
• Physical Copies: Keep physical copies in a fireproof and waterproof safe.
• Accessibility: Ensure that key family members know how to access these documents if you are unable to.

Conclusion: The Payoff of PreparationBeing prepared with a well-documented home inventory and a plan for weather emergencies can not only provide peace of mind but also significantly expedite the insurance claims process following a disaster. The upfront investment of time can save a great deal of stress and financial uncertainty when you most need stability.
FAQsQ: How often should I update my home inventory?
A: Ideally, update your inventory annually or whenever you make significant purchases.
Q: What should I include in my emergency kit for weather-related disasters?
A: Focus on essentials like water, food, medications, important documents, clothing, and tools like a flashlight and a whistle.
Q: How can I secure important documents from water and fire damage?
A: Invest in a waterproof and fireproof safe for physical copies and use reliable cloud services for digital copies.
By embracing these proactive steps, you not only prepare your household for severe weather but also ensure that the aftermath is as manageable as possible. Weathering the storm might be inevitable, but the chaos that follows doesn’t have to be.

​Navigating through the costs and claims of auto and home insurance can be like trying to thread a needle in a windstorm—tricky, but not impossible. Whether you're a new homeowner or a seasoned driver, understanding how to reduce insurance losses can save you more than just a few pennies. It’s all about making smart, informed decisions and leveraging the right strategies to bolster your financial safeguard. So, buckle up and let’s get into the nitty-gritty of trimming down those insurance losses.Introduction to Reducing Insurance LossesInsurance isn't just a legal requirement—it's a critical component of your financial security. However, the premiums and potential losses associated with policies can take a hefty toll on your wallet. By taking proactive steps to minimize risks and manage your policies more effectively, you can significantly reduce potential losses and keep your insurance costs under control.

Smart Ways to Slash Auto Insurance Losses
1. Choose Your Vehicle Wisely: The type of vehicle you drive impacts your insurance premiums and potential losses significantly. Opting for a car with a strong safety record, lower repair costs, and good overall reliability can reduce the likelihood of hefty claims and high insurance rates.
2. Increase Your Deductibles: If you’re financially able to handle a higher out-of-pocket expense in the event of a claim, increasing your deductible can lower your premium costs substantially. Just make sure the deductible isn’t so high that it would put you in a bind if something happens.
3. Take Advantage of Discounts: Most insurance companies offer a plethora of discounts that can substantially lower your premiums. These can include discounts for safe driving, having multiple policies with the same company, installing anti-theft devices, and even for students with good grades. Always ask your provider about available discounts.
4. Regular Policy Reviews: Circumstances change, and so should your auto insurance. Regularly reviewing your policy ensures that you’re only paying for the coverage you need. For example, as your car ages, you might consider dropping collision or comprehensive coverage.

Cost-effective Strategies for Home Insurance
1. Fortify Your Home: Invest in making your home more resistant to disasters. This can include simple upgrades like storm-proof windows, modernizing plumbing and electrical systems, or installing a security system. Not only do these improvements protect your home, but they can also lead to lower insurance premiums.
2. Understand Policy Details: Knowing exactly what your home insurance covers and what it doesn’t can save you a world of confusion and claims denials. Make sure you understand the limits of your policy and assess if additional coverage like flood insurance is necessary.
3. Bundle Your Policies: Bundling home and auto insurance with the same provider can lead to discounts on both. It’s a simple strategy that can yield meaningful savings without cutting corners on coverage.
4. Maintain a Good Credit Score: In many states, your credit score affects your home insurance premiums. A higher credit score can lead to lower rates, as insurers view a good credit score as an indicator of less risky behavior.
Conclusion: Steering Clear of High Insurance CostsBy implementing these strategies, you can steer clear of high insurance costs and minimize losses. Insurance is your financial safety net, and with a bit of savvy management, you can make it stronger and more cost-effective. Remember, the key to reducing insurance loss lies in staying informed, being proactive about risk management, and regularly reviewing and adjusting your coverage.
Need more tips on managing insurance costs or specific advice for unique situations? Drop your questions below or reach out for personalized guidance. After all, when it comes to insurance, the best policy is one that fits your life like a glove!

​Introduction: Residents of Oklahoma and Texas are no strangers to severe weather, particularly during storm season. With the 2024 storm season on the horizon, it's crucial to look ahead and prepare for the expected weather patterns that could impact these areas significantly. This blog post offers a comprehensive outlook on the upcoming storm season, detailing meteorological expectations and providing essential tips on how to safeguard your property and ensure your insurance policies are robust enough to provide the necessary coverage.

Understanding the 2024 Storm Forecast for Oklahoma and Texas:

Meteorological Predictions: The 2024 storm outlook for Oklahoma and Texas indicates an active season, with an above-average number of severe weather events predicted. Experts from the National Weather Service and various meteorological agencies point to a combination of La Niña conditions and warmer Gulf waters as key factors contributing to increased storm activity. This includes potential for more frequent and more intense thunderstorms, hail events, and an elevated risk of tornadoes, particularly in the Tornado Alley region which prominently includes parts of both states.

Factors Influencing This Year's Storm Season:

1. La Niña Conditions: La Niña typically reduces the wind shear over the southern Plains, which can create an environment more conducive to tornado formation.
2. Warmer Gulf Waters: Increased sea surface temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico can contribute to more moisture and energy available for storm systems, intensifying storm development.
3. Atmospheric Instability: A mix of warm, moist air from the Gulf clashing with cooler, dry air from the Rockies can lead to increased atmospheric instability, a key ingredient for severe thunderstorms.

Preparation and Insurance Considerations:

1. Property Inspection and Maintenance:
   • Home Inspection: Begin by inspecting your home for potential vulnerabilities to storm damage. Check roofing materials, windows, and doors to ensure they can withstand high winds and hail.
   • Landscaping: Secure loose items and trim trees to minimize the risk of debris during high winds.
2. Emergency Preparedness:
   • Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and important documents.
   • Communication Plan: Establish a communication plan with your family. Know where to go if you need to evacuate and how you will contact each other if separated.
3. Insurance Review and Adjustment:
   • Coverage Review: Review your current insurance policies to ensure they cover storm-related damages adequately. This includes checking the limits and deductibles of your homeowner's and auto insurance.
   • Flood Insurance: Consider purchasing flood insurance if you haven’t already. Standard homeowner policies do not typically cover flood damage, and this could be crucial depending on your area’s flood risk profile.
   • Document Property: Take photos or videos of your property and belongings to facilitate claims processing in case of damage.

Conclusion: Preparing for the 2024 storm season in Oklahoma and Texas is critical due to the predicted increase in severe weather events. By understanding the meteorological outlook, securing your property, and ensuring your insurance is up to date, you can mitigate the risks and protect your family and investments. Remember, the time to prepare is now, before the skies darken and the first warnings sound.

​FAQs About Storm Preparation and Insurance:

1. How can I find out if my area is at high risk for tornadoes? Check with local government offices or websites, such as the National Weather Service, for risk maps and historical data concerning tornado occurrences in your area.
2. What should I include in my emergency kit for storm season? Include water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, medications, flashlights, extra batteries, and copies of important documents.
3. Is it necessary to have a windstorm insurance rider? Depending on where you live and your home’s susceptibility to wind damage, a windstorm rider might be necessary to provide additional coverage beyond what your standard homeowner's insurance offers.

By taking proactive steps now, you can ensure that you are better prepared to face the storm season, minimizing potential impacts and ensuring that you and your property are well-protected.

Introduction:
In the current economic climate, it's not uncommon to see a significant uptick in home and auto insurance rates, which can strain personal finances. This blog post aims to dissect the reasons behind these rising costs and equip you with strategies to counteract them, potentially leading to better rates and more manageable insurance expenses.
Why Are Home and Auto Insurance Rates Increasing?

1. Economic Inflation: Economic factors play a pivotal role in insurance rate adjustments. Inflation affects the overall cost of goods and services, including the materials used for home repairs and parts for auto repairs, which can drive up insurance claims and, consequently, insurance premiums.
   
2. Climate Change and Natural Disasters: Increasingly frequent and severe weather events, such as hurricanes, wildfires, and floods, contribute significantly to higher risks of claims in home insurance. For auto insurance, severe weather can lead to more accidents and damage, increasing claim costs.
   
3. Technological Advancements in Homes and Cars: Modern homes and vehicles are equipped with sophisticated technology that can be expensive to repair or replace. For example, a modern car with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) can cost more to repair after an accident due to its complex sensors and cameras.
   
4. Legislative and Regulatory Changes: Changes in regulations or legislation can also influence insurance costs. For instance, states that require higher minimum liability coverages for auto insurance can lead to increased base rates for drivers.
   
5. Rising Healthcare Costs: With auto insurance, rising healthcare costs can significantly affect personal injury protection (PIP) and medical payments coverage, contributing to higher overall costs for insurers and, subsequently, for policyholders.
   

Strategies to Manage Rising Home and Auto Insurance Costs:

• Shop Around: Always shop around and compare rates from multiple insurers. Each insurer calculates risk differently, so quotes can vary considerably.
  
• Bundle Your Policies: Many insurance companies offer discounts if you bundle home and auto insurance policies. This not only simplifies your insurance management but also can reduce your premiums.
  
• Increase Your Deductibles: Opting for higher deductibles can lower your premiums. Ensure you choose a deductible amount that you can comfortably afford in the event of a claim.
  
• Improve Home and Vehicle Security: Enhancing your home security with systems like burglar alarms and fire suppression systems, or adding anti-theft devices to your vehicle, can reduce your risk profile and potentially lower your insurance rates.
  
• Maintain a Good Credit Score: In many states, insurers use your credit score to determine premiums. A better credit score can lead to lower rates, so it’s important to keep your finances in good shape.
  
• Take Advantage of Discounts: Ask your insurer about discounts for which you might be eligible. For example, discounts may be available for safe driving, loyalty, or even affiliations with certain organizations.
  

Conclusion:
Navigating the landscape of rising home and auto insurance rates requires a proactive approach to understanding the factors at play and utilizing strategies to mitigate these costs. By staying informed and actively managing your insurance policies, you can find ways to maintain affordable coverage without compromising on your needs.
FAQs About Home and Auto Insurance Rates:

1. Why do insurance companies raise rates annually? Insurance companies may adjust rates based on overall loss statistics, individual risk profile changes, and their need to maintain a stable financial position.
   
2. Can improving my driving record lower my auto insurance rates? Absolutely, maintaining a clean driving record can significantly reduce your auto insurance premiums.
   
3. How often should I review my insurance policies? It’s wise to review your insurance policies annually or whenever there are significant changes in your life situation, such as moving to a new home or buying a new car.
   

If you found this guide helpful, remember to share it with others who might also benefit from learning more about managing their home and auto insurance costs effectively!

​Driving without full attention on the road has become increasingly problematic on US roadways. Policyholders can proactively increase safety and reduce insurance costs as the government, insurers, and technology companies confront this growing threat. The first step is understanding the issue.
What is distracted driving?Any activity that pulls a driver's focus away from operating the vehicle is considered distracted driving. Many people may know that this behavior includes texting and rubbernecking (e.g., staring at accidents or scenery). However, talking on the phone or to other passengers, eating, drinking, reaching for something in the car, or engaging with navigation or entertainment systems can derail concentration, too. A complete list of potential diversions may not be possible, but it can be helpful to remember three main categories:

• Visual distractions – those which divert your eyes away from the road.
• Manual distractions – those which involve taking your hands off the steering wheel.
• Cognitive distractions – those that require you to take your mind off driving.

How dangerous is distracted driving?You can lose the time required to avoid a potential collision when your attention wanders away- even for a second. The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) reported that more than 3,100 people died in distraction-related accidents in 2020. Each year, these types of incidents also injure an estimated 400,000 people. However, the actual numbers may likely be higher due to underreporting.
Has distracted driving increased?Data from telematics service provider Cambridge Mobile Telematics (CMT) suggests that distracted driving in the United States rose more than 20 percent from February 2020 to February 2022. This dramatic upward shift emerged as traffic levels rebounded following the initial months of the pandemic. Again, the involvement of distraction in crashes, fatal or not, may be underreported. However, CMT estimates that "every 10 percent increase in distracted driving kills over 420 people and costs the American economy $4 billion every year."
Does distracted driving increase insurance costs?Driving without full attention on the road is a safety hazard that can also affect your insurance rates. The risk of traffic violations and collisions increases when a driver loses focus. Although laws vary by state, inattentive behavior, such as texting while driving, may lead to points on your license. Such incidents can cause your auto insurance premium to rise, even if no one is physically hurt.
Does cell phone use increase driver distraction?The GHSA study found that cell phone use–dialing, texting, and browsing–were among the most prevalent and highest-risk behaviors. In 2020, cell phone use caused 11 percent of fatal crashes, resulting in 354 deaths in the US, according to the NHTSA.
Who is most at risk for distracted driving?It may be no surprise that younger drivers are the most likely demographic to find themselves involved in dangerous accidents because they took their attention off the road. According to GHSA data, drivers aged 15 to 20 years ranked as the highest risk for distraction at the time of a fatal crash. Therefore, parents of teen drivers should consider:

• modeling safe driver behavior to set a good example,
• regularly discussing the rules and consequences of driving, and
• implementing "family driving safety rules," such as putting cell phones in driving mode to prohibit texts, calls, or other functions when in motion.

How has the government responded to distracted driving?According to research by the Insurance Institute for High Safety (IIHS), data suggests that state laws against using mobile devices while driving correlate with reduced crash rates. However, overall results were mixed among the states studied as different legal language, degrees of enforcement, and penalty severity have resulted in outcome variations. Initiatives at the federal level include resources from Congress to support awareness via driver's license exams in 2021 and a strategic plan by the U.S. Dept of Transportation.
What is telematics and can it help curb distracted driving and save on insurance costs?Insurers value information about driving behavior as a predictor of risk. Telematics is a technology that insurers can use to understand your risk profile and tailor auto insurance rates based on your driving habits. Policies involving telematics are also sometimes called usage-based insurance (UBI) because these capture and evaluate how you use your car. While traditional auto insurance rates rely on historical studies of factors such as a driving record and credit-based insurance score, telematics programs are designed to consider driver habits and other aspects of vehicle operation.
The information collected by telematics varies by insurer but can include rapid acceleration, hard braking, hard cornering, airbag deployment, time of day, and more. The data is analyzed to provide a sharper risk assessment and can lead to insurance savings for the monitored driver.
Does telematics help with driving safety?A survey from the Insurance Research Council found that 45 percent of drivers said they made significant safety-related changes in how they drove after participating in a telematics program. Another 35 percent said they made small changes in their driving behavior.
Policyholders' comfort with allowing their driving behavior to be monitored in exchange for potentially lower insurance costs appeared to improve during the onset of the pandemic. In May 2019, Arity, a mobility data and analytics firm, surveyed 875 licensed drivers over the age of 18 to find out how comfortable they would be in having their insurance costs adjusted based on telematics variables. Between 30 and 40 percent said they would be either "very" or "extremely comfortable" sharing this data. In May 2020, Arity reran the survey with over 1,000 licensed drivers, and the results indicated a year-over-year increase of more than 12 percent.
Learn more:Background on: Pay-as-you drive auto insurance (telematics)
https://www.travelers.com/travelers-institute/distracted-driving
Distracted driving (iihs.org)
Distracted Driving Awareness Month - National Safety Council (nsc.org)
April Is Distracted Driving Awareness Month | NHTSA
Triple-I Issues Brief: Distracted Driving: State of the Risk

“No winter lasts forever; no spring skips its turn.”

That’s a quote from author Hal Borland — but another favorite saying might be even more appropriate for this time of year: “Be prepared.”

After all, warmer weather brings plenty of risk to go with its beauty. If you aren’t ready, you could find yourself with more spring cleaning than you bargained for after heavy rains, hailstorms, and other hazards.
Here are five things you can do to get yourself and your property all set for the season.

1. Give your home’s exterior a check-up. This includes your roof, gutters, downspouts, and even your paint. Look for shingles that have come loose, or spots where any have blown away. You’ll want to get those fixed as soon as possible, before moisture starts getting in. Gutters and downspouts should be clear of debris, and if winter weather has worn your home’s paint down in spots, touch it up because exposed wood can lead to rot. Don’t forget your windows, either. Give them a good cleaning, and while you’re at it, make sure the screens are intact and the seals are still solid.

2. Prepare for extreme weather. The maintenance tips above will help with that, but it’s important for you and your family to be as ready as your home. Make sure you have an emergency survival kit and a disaster plan so everyone knows what to do when something unexpected happens. Learn about what to do both before and after heavy rains, hail, flooding, and tornadoes whether you think you’re at risk or not.

3. Get your outdoor appliances and tools ready. Now is the time to get your air conditioner serviced, so it’s operating perfectly when the weather heats up and you really need it. It’s a good idea to clean out the grill, too. Take care to check for cracked or leaky lines if you cook with gas. A little love now will go a long way in the coming months for yard tools like lawnmowers and hedge trimmers.

4. Don’t forget your home’s interior — including the attic. Yes, spring is the time when everybody vows to clean out the junk and get organized. If that’s on your list, good for you. At the very least, you should check on a few things inside, even if you aren’t tackling a deep clean. Look in the attic for any issues, such as moisture or signs of wildlife who got in to escape the winter cold. Clean up any droppings and seal up any openings. Around the rest of the house, see if you’ve got air leaks, which can drive up your energy bills. And don’t forget to change your smoke-detector batteries when the clocks spring forward!
​
5. Make this the year you do a home inventory. You’re taking steps to protect your home, which also helps to protect all of the stuff inside it. But what if something happened and you lost everything? Would you remember everything you had? Spring is the perfect time to do a home inventory — while that doesn’t protect your stuff, it does make replacing your possessions a whole lot easier after a disaster. If you’re handling spring-cleaning duties, take some time to jot down some notes and take pictures of your stuff (or better yet, use an app). If you’re not quite in spring-cleaning mode, try starting an inventory anyway; you just might be inspired to get organized!