If you’re a landlord or a tenant, you might be wondering why it’s important to get an inventory report for a rented property.
For landlords, it serves as a crucial document that accurately records the condition of the property before a tenant moves in. It includes detailed descriptions and photographs of the property, its condition, the fixtures and any existing furniture or appliances. It is not currently a legal requirement, but by having such a report in place, landlords can protect themselves against potential disputes regarding damages or missing items at the end of a tenancy.
This written record also helps to ensure the accommodation is in the same condition before it was let out, while allowing for fair wear and tear from reasonable use. The report provides a solid foundation for comparison during the check-out process, ensuring any discrepancies can be resolved fairly.
Each room is listed separately (hallway, lounge, bathrooms, kitchen, doors, windows, walls, ceilings, sockets, fixtures and fittings) and details the condition of each and its items.
The inspection goes on further to assess the cleanliness of the property by room and item, documents the keys, records the meter readings for gas, electric and water and also tests smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they are working.
An inventory provides great peace of mind for landlords, knowing that by having such a document when renting your property out, you are essentially helping to protect your investment.
This process is equally just as important for the tenant. Since it’s a written record of the overall condition, it protects the tenant from being held accountable for pre-existing damages or wear and tear that existed before the tenancy. By carefully reviewing and signing the report, a tenant can ensure that they are not unfairly held responsible for any pre-existing issues when it’s time to move out of the rented property.
For landlords and tenants, having an independent inventory report in place keeps everyone safe in the knowledge that both parties’ interests are protected.