Someone filling out an inventory list

Creating an inventory for rented property is a crucial step for landlords to take at various stages in the tenancy process. Whether you’re a new landlord or a seasoned professional looking to refine your tenancy process, this guide will help make sure you have included every detail in the inventory list.

A house inventory list for landlords can help in more ways than one. It can protect both the landlord and the tenant should a dispute arise and form the backbone of a landlord’s claim in court.

What is an inventory for rented property?

An inventory for rented property is a detailed document that records the items and the condition of those items within the property. This document should be made at the start of a tenant’s lease and updated throughout the tenancy period.

The document must contain high-quality photographs of the items within the property and detailed descriptions. A document with these details and photos allows you to show the tenant how it was before they moved in, which helps highlight any damage or missing items at the end of the tenancy.

This document is helpful for landlords and tenants as it provides a benchmark that will help sort out potential disputes regarding the property’s condition.

Blue kitchen cupboards full of plates and cups

What should be included in an inventory list for furnished rental property?

The short answer is everything! It really is the more the merrier regarding an inventory list for a furnished rental property. It should detail everything from the condition of the carpets and walls to the number of cups in the cupboard.

An inventory for rented property should be made room by room. All fixtures, fittings, appliances, and furniture, along with their condition and any existing wear and tear, must be stated in the document. It’s also worth highlighting how clean each room is; photographic evidence can support this. Landlords should expect tenants to leave the property in the same condition as they found it. Meter readings also need to be documented.

  • Walls, floors, doors and ceilings: Any scuffs, marks, holes or decorative damage should be recorded and photographed. It’s worth photographing and writing down if they are pristine because you must compare the condition during or at the end of the tenancy.
  • Exterior walls: It’s important to note any cracks, weathering or graffiti from vandalism. You should also take a general look around the outside of the property to note the condition of the roof, drains and other external features.
  • Carpets: Any stains need recording, as well as any loose ends.
  • Windows: Is there any mould forming around the windows? Are they clean? Note any cracks or chips that could perhaps develop into something more serious.
  • Running water: Check that the taps are working properly and record the status.
  • Electricity and gas: A general check of the electrical system and gas system. It’s also worth proving you have the required safety agreements.
  • Cupboards: Are the doors opening and closing as they should be?

Inventory list for furnished rental property

If you are renting out a furnished property, the items you have included also need to be part of the inventory list. This is in case the tenant damages, breaks or even takes the item when they leave. You should also record the amount of that specific item, for example, the number of forks you have provided in the kitchen drawer.

Practical tips on how to create an inventory for rented property

An inventory for rented property is a crucial list to create for landlords. Here are some tips on how to form an inventory: 

  • Photographs: Take clear, high-quality photos and date them. 
  • Invoices and receipts: Keep all invoices and receipts related to any work carried out on the property. These supply a date as to when changes happened.
  • Update your inventory list: The property’s status and amount of items are probably forever changing. Whenever you add an item, replace it or notice damage during a property inspection, it’s worth updating the inventory to keep an accurate record at all times. 

Someone taking a photo of the items in their property such as a table and chair

Why inventories protect both parties during disputes 

A house inventory list for landlords prevents disputes at the end of the tenancy. Landlords should organise a checkout inspection when the tenants leave the property, and the documents should be compared to the property’s current status. This process can help landlords determine whether or not they should deduct from the deposit.

If there is a dispute regarding the deposit deduction, then the landlord has concrete evidence. It will also help decipher between damage and fair wear and tear. 

So, an inventory for rented property provides a level of support for landlords. But it’s also good to have some financial support should problems arise. We have the expertise to find the best landlord insurance deals that are suitable for your needs as a landlord. Contact us today at 01788 818 670 for a quote, and don’t forget to visit our resource centre for more information on how to be a successful landlord.

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