A clear inventory is one of the most practical ways for a landlord or letting agent to reduce deposit disputes. It creates an agreed record of the property’s condition at the start of the tenancy and gives everyone a fair comparison at check-out.
What should a landlord record?
Record every room, fixture, fitting and item of furniture. Note cleanliness, existing marks, damage, wear and missing items. Include meter readings, keys, alarms, garden areas and any external storage.
Use dated, high-resolution photographs that support the written description. Wide shots show context; close-ups show detail. Make sure images are labelled clearly so they can be matched to the relevant room or item.
Before the tenant moves in, give them a reasonable opportunity to review the report and raise corrections. Keep the agreed version, signed check-in record and any later correspondence together.
How does this help at check-out?
A check-out report should compare the end-of-tenancy condition with the original inventory. Fair comparisons distinguish normal wear and tear from tenant-caused damage, making deposit decisions easier to explain and defend.
Daily Inventory provides detailed inventory, check-in, check-out and midterm inspection reports across London for landlords, letting agents and property managers. Contact us for a tailored quote.
