Inventories – what, why and how?

An inventory is an essential part of any tenancy. It is, in effect, a written ‘benchmark' against which the condition and contents of the property can be measured at the start and end of the tenancy. It should be drawn up by an independent professional inventory company and without it, in the case of a dispute over the deposit, it is almost impossible to claim any damages or dilapidations at the end of the tenancy.

The inventory comprises three parts:

The inventory document – this is a written report detailing the fixtures and fittings in a property. Providing there are no major changes to the property or its contents from one tenancy to another, the inventory may be used for successive tenancies.

The check-in report – this is a separate report drawn up against the inventory which details the specific condition of the fixtures, fittings and of the property generally at the very start of the tenancy.

The check-out report – this is the report drawn up at the very end of the tenancy detailing the condition and contents against the original check-in and inventory to assess any damage or dilapidations (aside from fair wear and tear) that may have taken place during the tenancy.

Hart Sales & Lettings can carry out an inventory on behalf of the landlord, or we can arrange for a third-party to do the job.  Neither landlord nor tenant is actually required to be present for the check-in or the check-out as it is carried out by an independent party. Hart Sales & Lettings have a number of excellent inventory companies that we can instruct on your behalf to ensure your property is protected against damage by the tenant.

Inventory prices will vary depending on the size of your property and its level of furnishing, however we are able to advise on approximate costs.