What is a landlord inventory?

A landlord inventory and schedule of condition is a detailed record of all the fixtures and fittings within your rental property and the condition it is in at the beginning of a tenancy. A landlord inventory and schedule of condition should include details of:

• Walls
• Fixtures and fittings
• Ceilings
• Wall coverings (paint colours, wallpaper etc)
• Floor coverings
• Doors
• Kitchen units and appliances
• Windows
• Bathroom suites
• Furniture (if part or fully furnished)
• Gardens
• Outbuildings (garages, sheds and other outbuildings)
• All furnished items

What is the difference between a landlord inventory and schedule of condition?

The landlord inventory report aims to provide a fair and accurate record of the decor, contents, fixtures and fittings of the property.

The schedule of condition report provides a statement as to the condition of the items listed in the inventory.  The condition of the items at the start of the tenancy should be compared to the condition of the property at the end of the tenancy.

Details of any alterations to the property after the inventory has been agreed upon should be noted on a separate addendum sheet and agreed by the tenant and the landlord.  At the end of the tenancy, a check-out report should be conducted to determine any changes to the landlord’s inventory.

Does a landlord have to have an inventory?

A landlord inventory is not a legal requirement, however, it is best practice. Having a complete record of the condition of your property and its contents will save you a world of hassle later on if a dispute should arise between you and the tenant.

Whilst an inventory is not a mandatory, there are in fact a few documents that are legally required.

Why do I need a landlord inventory?

A landlord inventory offers you peace of mind knowing that any damage or loss discovered at the end of the tenancy will be evidenced. Without it, it is very difficult to prove that the damage or theft was caused by the tenant or their guests.

If you found damage to your property, garden or contents or if items were missing and the tenant is not accepting liability, you will be able to raise a dispute with the deposit scheme’s dispute resolution service.

Your inventory will also be used during mid-term inspections and check-out reports to ensure the property is in good condition.

Landlord inventories and deposit disputes

Having a detailed landlord inventory (including check-in and check-out reports) will provide sufficient evidence during your dispute and help you to make a successful claim against the tenant’s deposit.

In England and Wales, under the government-backed Tenancy Deposit Protection (TDP) scheme rules, a tenant’s deposit must be registered with a deposit protection scheme and should be returned to them at the end of the tenancy as long as they:

• Meet the terms of their tenancy agreement
• Do not cause any damage to the property or take items from the property
• Pay the rent and bills