RICHMOND — It is now easier than ever for Virginians to accurately maintain an inventory of their possessions and exchange information after an auto accident without compromising their identity with free myHome Inventory and WreckCheck smartphone insurance apps, according to the State Corporation Commission’s (SCC) Bureau of Insurance. The apps, which are compatible with iPhone® and Android® smartphones, were developed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), of which the Bureau of Insurance is a member. They are available at no cost from the app store on your smartphone.

According to recent surveys conducted by the NAIC, half of all Americans do not have a home inventory and many are unclear about what information to share at a crash site or when to call the police.

The Bureau of Insurance reminds Virginians to prepare a complete inventory of their personal belongings before a loss occurs. “One of the best ways to ensure that your possessions are fully protected is to document them with a home inventory,” said SCC Insurance Commissioner Jacqueline K. Cunningham. “A home inventory enables you to determine exactly what you own and what it is worth before you need to make an insurance claim. It will also help you choose insurance coverage that will fully protect and replace your valuables in the event that they are lost, stolen, or damaged.”

The myHOME Scr.APP.book app lets users quickly photograph and capture images, descriptions, bar codes and serial numbers, and then stores them electronically for safekeeping. The app allows users to organize information room by room, and even creates a back-up file for email sharing.

In the case of automobile accidents, the WreckCheck mobile application outlines what to do immediately after an auto accident and enables users to create their own accident report. The app makes it easy for the user to capture photos, document only what is necessary to file an insurance claim, and email a completed report directly to themselves and their insurance agents.

For those without smartphones, NAIC offers free downloadable home inventory and accident checklists and tips at www.insureuonline.org

Virginians with insurance questions or concerns about home, auto, or other types of insurance can call the Bureau of Insurance toll-free at 1-877-310-6560 or in Richmond at (804) 371-9741 or visit its website at www.scc.virginia.gov/boi.

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