What is a property inventory report?
A property inventory report is a detailed record of a rental property's contents and condition at the beginning of a tenancy. It typically includes a thorough description of the rooms, furniture, and fittings within the property, along with meter readings for utilities and photographic evidence to support the documented content. This report serves as a crucial legal document to protect both landlords and tenants in case of disputes over property damage during the tenancy period.
What is included in inventory property?
An inventory property report typically includes a detailed record of the rooms, all furniture, and fittings within the rented property. It also documents meter readings that can be used later to set up utility accounts, and includes photographic evidence to support the initially documented content. The report details the condition of all items and areas, from hygiene and cleanliness at check-in to any damage sustained by check-out.
What are the various types of inventory reports in detail?
Our service offers several types of property inventory reports tailored to tenancy agreements. These include: Inventory List + Check-In, which details the property's contents and condition before new tenants move in; Check-Out Inspection, performed when tenants move out to compare the property's state to its initial condition; and a Schedule of Condition Report, which can be done if a check-in report is unavailable, documenting meter readings, cleaning issues, and missing items. Each report provides clear evidence for potential disputes.
Is an inventory report a legal requirement?
While a property inventory report is not a legal requirement in itself, it is highly recommended and considered best practice, especially for properties where a deposit is taken and held in a government-backed tenancy deposit scheme. The report serves as crucial evidence in case of a dispute over damages at the end of a tenancy, providing clear documentation of the property's condition at the start and end of the agreement. Without it, recovering costs for damages can be challenging.
Who is required to submit an inventory list?
Typically, the landlord or their managing agent is responsible for commissioning and providing the inventory list at the beginning of a tenancy. The inventory is usually prepared by a professional clerk, who then provides the report to both the landlord and the tenant. While the landlord/agent provides it, it's crucial for the tenant to review, agree to, and sign the document, as it forms part of the tenancy agreement and protects both parties in case of disputes.
How to write an inventory for a property?
Writing an inventory for a property involves systematically documenting every item and aspect of a rental property. This means going room by room, listing all contents (furniture, appliances, decorative items), fixtures (lights, fittings), and detailing their condition using clear descriptions and photographic evidence. Meter readings should also be recorded. The report should be thorough, objective, and agreed upon by both landlord and tenant to serve as a reliable record for the tenancy agreement.
How should inventory be reported?
A property inventory should be reported as a detailed record, typically in PDF format, sent via email. It includes comprehensive descriptions of each room, its contents, and fittings. Crucially, it must be supported by photographic evidence to visually document the initial condition. Meter readings are also checked and recorded. This precise documentation allows for a clear comparison of the property's state before and after the tenancy, providing clear evidence for dispute resolution.
Do I have to be present while the Inventory Service takes place?
This is not mandatory but you must make sure to provide access to the property and meter readings so the clerk can survey it. In case you do wish to be present while the survey takes place, please give the clerk enough time and space to complete the survey.
What happens after the service takes place?
You will receive your report in a PDF form within 3-5 business days upon confirmation of payment. In case you need the report as soon as possible, please notify us about this when you are booking your service and we'll see what we can do to deliver it faster.
Can you do an inventory service after the tenant has moved in?
This can be arranged but there are two negative aspects to it. Firstly, we won't be able to ascertain if any damages to the property were caused by the tenant after they have moved in. And second, the clerk might not have full access to certain areas of the property because the tenant might have their belongings spread around the place.
How long does the inventory survey take?
We are unable to give you a precise time estimate. The duration of the survey depends on several factors such as the size of the property, its condition and its contents. However, keep in mind that this is not an hourly-based service so the duration itself won't affect the payment.
Do you need a check-in report to perform a check-out inventory service?
Yes, the report itself can be made but we won't be able to compare the current state of the property to its condition at the beginning of the tenancy.
Is it necessary for the tenants to be present while the end of tenancy check-out survey takes place?
The tenants can be present if they wish to but this won't affect the report in any way.
Can a client contact us in order to seek for report amendments?
Yes, a client can seek for report amendments within 7 business days of receiving the report.