Taking an inventory when a tenant moves in to a home is one of the cornerstones of sound letting property management.
Inventories are not just a chore, but statements agreed between the landlord and tenant that benchmark the condition of a property when the tenant takes over.
Many landlords believe inventories are only needed for furnished lettings, but experienced property professionals know every letting property should have a detailed inventory.
Why do landlords need an inventory?
The tenant has a right to know why a landlord is keeping some or all of a deposit when they move out.
Sometimes, the explanation for deposit retention is simple – like to cover rent arrears.
Other disputes revolve around a difference of opinion about damage to the property.
If a detailed and comprehensive record of the condition of the property is not included in the inventory, the landlord simply does not have the evidence to prove to an independent adjudicator that the tenant is responsible for paying for cleaning or repairs.
Taking an inventory
A good inventory starts at the front gate and takes in the state of the outside of the property. The landlord is responsible for the buildings, but the tenancy agreement will specify the tenant should tend to the gardens, keep rubbish in bins and clean windows.
Inside, the inventory should go from room to room detailing the state of the floor, ceilings and decorations as well as looking at individual items like carpets, light fittings and curtains.
Take plenty of pictures – either on video or with a digital camera – but remember those crime scene investigation programmes on TV and have an L-shaped ruler and some blu-tac that helps give an idea of the size or depth of any existing wear and tear.
Do take the inventory when the property is empty – one of the most likely ways to damage decorations is by carrying furniture in, so a landlord needs to prove the state of repair before the tenant moves in.
Inventory tips
Several free inventory guides are available online – just search for ‘property inventory guide’.
Some firms sell inventories sell inventory templates and detailed instructions on how to complete them.
For landlords who do not have the time or inclination to complete their own inventories, most letting agents offer a service.
The Association of Independent Inventory Clerks (AIIC) is a specialist body for inventory professionals who can be hired to check tenants in and out.
Taking an inventory when a tenant moves in to a home is one of the cornerstones of sound letting property management. Inventories are not just a chore, but statements agreed between the landlord and tenant that benchmark the condition of a property when the tenant takes over. Many landlords believe inventories are only needed for furnished lettings, but experienced property professionals know every letting property should have a detailed inventory. Why do landlords need an inventory? The tenant has a right to know why a landlord is keeping some or all of a deposit when they move out. Sometimes, the explanation for deposit retention is simple – like to cover rent arrears. Other disputes revolve around a difference of opinion about damage to the property. If a detailed and comprehensive record of the condition of the property is not included in the inventory, the landlord simply does not have the evidence to prove to an independent adjudicator that the tenant is responsible for paying for cleaning or repairs. Taking an inventory A good inventory starts at the front gate and takes in the state of the outside of the property. The landlord is responsible for the buildings, but the tenancy agreement will specify the tenant should tend to the gardens, keep rubbish in bins and clean windows. Inside, the inventory should go from room to room detailing the state of the floor, ceilings and decorations as well as looking at individual items like carpets, light fittings and curtains. Take plenty of pictures – either on video or with a digital camera – but remember those crime scene investigation programmes on TV and have an L-shaped ruler and some blu-tac that helps give an idea of the size or depth of any existing wear and tear. Do take the inventory when the property is empty – one of the most likely ways to damage decorations is by carrying furniture in, so a landlord needs to prove the state of repair before the tenant moves in. Inventory tips Several free inventory guides are available online – just search for ‘property inventory guide’. Some firms sell inventories sell inventory templates and detailed instructions on how to complete them. For landlords who do not have the time or inclination to complete their own inventories, most letting agents offer a service. The Association of Independent Inventory Clerks (AIIC) is a specialist body for inventory professionals who can be hired to check tenants in and out. Find out more about the Association of Inventory Clerks (AIIC). Find out more about the Association of Inventory Clerks (AIIC).
