12 September 2023
An Inventory is a written representation of a property, it's fixtures and fittings and any furniture or appliances inside. It also reflects their condition and defects.
In order to ensure the property is returned to you in the best possible condition, it is essential that a detailed and thorough inventory is taken prior to a tenant moving in.
What Should an Inventory Include
A good inventory consists of the inventory (which documents all movable items and fixtures and fittings) and a schedule of condition (which relates to the physical fabric of the property):
- Summary of the property - cleanliness, condition and photos
- Meter readings and keys
- A detailed description of each room with photos
- A detailed desciption of the contents of each room with photos
It's usually a good idea to use a local independent inventory company to prepare the inventory.
Why Do You Need an Inventory
Having an inventory and schedule of condition at the start of a tenancy, although not mandatory, makes any claim for damages against the deposit much easier to establish as they will be taken as the measure of the state of the property and the landlord’s fixtures and fittings at the start of the tenancy.
The landlord can use the inventory as documentary evidence to show the property before and after the tenancy.
End of Tenancy
At the end of the tenancy, the inventory should be reviewed with the tenants and any repairs or cleaning agreed. If any deductions are to be made from the deposit, the inventory can be presented as evidence for those deductions.
