Here are 7 tips to help homeowners with their claims process:1. MAINTAIN AN INVENTORY OF HOUSEHOLD ITEMSReceiving a fair payout for damage to one's home and belongings begins by making a list of what you own, particularly the more expensive items, including what they cost, even if it's only an estimate.Taking photos or even shooting video while you describe the items and how much you paid for them, works too. And, if possible, take digital photos and video, which you can store online on websites like Flickr and Picasa. That way, you can access them in the event your computer is damaged.2. UNDERSTAND SCOPE OF YOUR COVERAGEKnowing what your insurance policy covers and what it doesn't is essential to getting through the claims process quicker.You don't want to have to rely only on what claims adjusters tell you, especially as they go through the process of evaluating how much of a payout you're going to get.3. QUICKLY DOCUMENT DAMAGE AND MAKE ONLY TEMPORARY REPAIRSAfter the storm, once it's safe to move about, it's important to take photos of the damage right away. Comparing these photos to the ones taken before the storm can be used to establish the value of items that are damaged or destroyed.If holes have been torn in your roof or windows are broken, cover them quickly to prevent further damage, but don't make any permanent repairs. But take photographs or videos of the damage before you start working.And don't throw out damaged furniture or other expensive items until an adjuster has seen them.4. CONTACT YOUR INSURER RIGHT AWAYHomeowners should call their insurer quickly and get the claims process rolling, regardless of how much damage their home has sustained.You can contact your insurance agent for information on how to file a claim. Or, if the agent can't be reached, contact the company directly via the Internet or phone.Even if you've been evacuated and have yet to return to your home, but it's in an area that may be flooded or known to ha