FAQ

If a landlord does not provide a property inventory report, it becomes difficult to prove the property’s original condition. This often weakens deposit claims and increases the likelihood that disputes are resolved in the tenant’s favour.

For a full comprehensive and in detail explanation on What happens if a landlord does not provide a property inventory? please click here.

In most cases, the landlord pays for the property inventory report. The inventory protects the landlord’s interests, and tenant fee legislation usually prevents this cost from being passed on to tenants.

For a full comprehensive and in detail explanation on Who pays for a property inventory report? please click here.

A property inventory report is not always explicitly required by law, but it is essential in practice. Without one, landlords often cannot justify deposit deductions or provide sufficient evidence during disputes.

For a full comprehensive and in detail explanation on Is a property inventory report legally required? please click here.

A property inventory report should include property details, a room-by-room condition assessment, fixtures and fittings, cleanliness standards, meter readings, keys provided, and supporting photographic evidence.

For a full comprehensive and in detail explanation on What should a property inventory report include? please click here.

A legally defensible property inventory report is detailed, objective, completed at the correct time, supported by photographs, and ideally produced by an independent inventory clerk with tenant review allowed.

For a full comprehensive and in detail explanation on What makes a property inventory report legally defensible? please click here.

A property inventory report documents the condition and contents of a rental property at the start of a tenancy to provide a clear baseline for comparison at the end.

Yes. Most professional property inventory reports include photographs to support written descriptions and provide clear evidence of condition.

A property inventory report is valid for the duration of the tenancy it was created for. New tenancies usually require a new report.

A landlord can create their own inventory report, but independent reports usually carry more weight in disputes.

A check-in report confirms the tenant has received the property as described in the property inventory report. A check-out report records the condition at tenancy end and is used to assess changes and deductions.

For a full comprehensive and in detail explanation on How does a check-in report differ from a check-out report? please click here.

Inventory inspections vary depending on property size and furnishing. Smaller flats may take around an hour, while larger or furnished properties can take several hours to inspect properly.

For a full comprehensive and in detail explanation on How long does an inventory inspection take? please click here.

Yes, tenants can dispute a property inventory report, usually during the review period at check-in. Disputes often relate to accuracy, pre-existing damage, or cleanliness recorded incorrectly.

For a full comprehensive and in detail explanation on Can a tenant dispute a property inventory report? please click here.

During a check-in inspection, the tenant confirms the condition of the property against the inventory, receives keys, and records any comments at the start of the tenancy.

Tenants are encouraged to attend, but check-ins can still be completed without them if access is available and documentation is shared promptly.

Any disagreements should be raised during the review period and added as comments to the report.

A check-out report is compared with the original property inventory report to identify changes. It provides evidence for any proposed deposit deductions relating to damage, cleaning, or missing items.

For a full comprehensive and in detail explanation on How does a check-out report affect the tenant’s deposit? please click here.

A check-out inspection checks the condition of each room, fixtures, fittings, contents, cleanliness standards, meter readings, and keys, all compared against the original property inventory report.

For a full comprehensive and in detail explanation on What is checked during a check-out inventory inspection? please click here.

Deposit deductions require a detailed property inventory report, a check-out report, clear photographs, and supporting cost evidence such as invoices or quotes, while allowing for fair wear and tear.

For a full comprehensive and in detail explanation on What evidence is needed for deposit deductions? please click here.

Tenants do not usually need to attend, but attendance can help clarify issues and reduce misunderstandings.

Check-out reports are usually completed on the move-out date or shortly after keys are returned.

Cleaning can be deducted if the property is returned in a worse condition than recorded at the start, allowing for fair wear and tear.

Midterm inventory inspections help landlords identify maintenance issues early, monitor how the property is being cared for, and reduce the risk of serious damage or disputes at the end of the tenancy.

For a full comprehensive and in detail explanation on Why are midterm inventory inspections important for landlords? please click here.

Midterm inventory inspections are commonly carried out every three to six months. The ideal frequency depends on the property type, tenant history, and overall risk level.

For a full comprehensive and in detail explanation on How often should a midterm inventory inspection be carried out? please click here.

Common issues include minor maintenance problems, cleanliness concerns, early signs of damp or mould, appliance faults, and unauthorised alterations that are easier to address mid-tenancy.

For a full comprehensive and in detail explanation on What common issues are found during midterm inspections? please click here.

Landlords must give proper notice before carrying out a midterm inspection and respect tenant privacy.

Midterm inspections are not mandatory, but they are widely regarded as best practice.

Midterm inspections do not directly affect the deposit, but records can help clarify responsibility later.