Everything tenants and landlords need to know about the property inventory

Have you heard of a property inventory? It’s like a magical report that captures the essence of a property at both the beginning and end of a tenancy. Think of it as a visual diary with photos and descriptions covering everything from walls to floors, doors to ceilings and even the skirting boards. The property inventory should cover the whole shebang!

it’s crucial that you have an up-to-date property inventory whether you’re the tenant or the landlord. Why? Because it will come in handy against any disputes over wear and tear, damage or, heaven forbid, theft during the tenancy. A thorough, up-to-date property inventory is a win-win for both all parties. At Three Sixty Living, we are specialists in writing thorough property inventories and provide this service for all of our landlords. Just ask; we’ll be happy to help!

Getting the timing right of your property inventory is important. You’ll want to draw one up at the start of the tenancy and then when the tenancy comes to end, refer back to it and make sure everything is in check. Property inventories are usually performed by an inventory clerk, a managing agent or a landlord. If you’re a tenant, it’s in your best interest to scrutinise the property inventory and add document anything that you feel is missing. Don’t be afraid to raise concerns over anything that you think isn’t right, too!

Whether you’re a tenant or a landlord, here are 3 easy steps for conducting your own property inventory:

1. Take a stroll through the property, keeping an eye out for anything that needs documenting. Don’t rely on mental notes. Grab a pen and paper or use the notes app on your phone to write everything down.
2. Put that camera phone to use and snap photos of every nook and cranny in the property. make the most of your photos — make sure the lights are on, the curtains are open and the shots and clear.
3. Keep a copy of your property inventory as a digital back up either in your possession or pass to your letting agency so they can keep a copy too, if you’re the landlord.

There’s not much too a property inventory so you’d be forgiven for thinking it’s not that important. It is. It’s crucial. If you ever need to chat about renting your property out, or life as a tenant, give us a shout at Three Sixty Living. We’re doing letting differently and we’re always here to help!