Natural disasters from tornadoes to fires to hurricanes can be devastating both personally and professionally. Although you can’t control disasters, you can take steps to prepare for the unexpected.
- Videotape everything in your home office and the rest of your home. While you tape, describe in detail everything you see. Make sure you back up the video online.
- Keep receipts and warranty information from large purchases in a hanging file folder labeled “Purchases.” Within the folder, label interior (they’re cut lower than manila) folders “office equipment” and any other general category of purchases. Before you file a receipt, staple it to the corresponding warranty booklet.
- Back up your data often (at least weekly) and keep at least two copies (three is ideal). Store one copy in your office and two off-site. Your computer is easy to replace, while data is difficult and time-consuming to replace.
- Store important business and personal documents in your safe deposit box or in a fireproof file cabinet. Information ranging from insurance policies to investment information can be time-consuming to replace. You may not need to refer to the information often, but when you need it, you know it will be safe.
- Start a file labeled “Emergency Information” and keep it in a nearby file drawer. Inside it keep copies of your insurance papers, credit card numbers and other vital information that you would need easy access to in the event of an emergency. It’s a good idea to store a duplicate file off-site in your safe deposit box.
- Don’t assume that your homeowner’s insurance covers your home office equipment. You may need to purchase additional coverage. The time to find out about coverage is before you need it.
