We all know the importance of a thorough inventory but, according to the Association of Independent Inventory Clerks, many landlords are submitting inventories at deposit scheme adjudications that are next to useless, which inevitably leads to them losing their case—and the deposit.
So what makes a good inventory?
Photographic and video evidence is simply not enough. You must include a detailed written report alongside photographs and/or video evidence of the condition of the property, before and after the tenancy. It is also useful to keep copies of invoices deducted from the deposit for cleaning contractors, gardening contractors, and any other tradesmen you employed to restore the property back to its original condition.
What else should landlords do?
An inventory should be signed and dated by the tenant when they check-in to the property, although an undated inventory might still be accepted by the adjudicator if there is evidence to show the tenant was given a copy when they checked in to the property. The inventory can then be used at check-out to establish an accurate snapshot of the property condition. If you or your letting agent fail to do a thorough check-in and check-out, you will not have a leg to stand on if your tenant decides to take you to court in an attempt to get their full deposit back.
How can new landlords ensure they have an adequate inventory?
If you are a new landlord, it is probably a good idea to have your inventory compiled by a professional inventory clerk, which is what the tenant deposit schemes recommend.
