What should a Check-In Inventory Report Contain?

What is a Check-In Inventory Report?

A check-in inventory report is a record of the contents and condition of a rental property right at the start of a tenancy. It is used to outline anything owned by the landlord (furniture, appliances etc), as well as to provide detailed descriptions and photographs of the condition of every room in the property. 

Why are Inventory Reports Important?

Check-in inventory reports benefit both landlords and tenants, and are a crucial part of the property rental process. Their primary purpose is to help settle any disputes when it comes to ownership of items, and accountability of damage to the property or its contents.

As a landlord, having this detailed report holds tenants accountable for any damage they may cause to your property during their tenancy, outside of the normal wear and tear expected. 

As a tenant, the check-in report shows any pre-existing damage to the property before you’ve moved in, preventing your landlord from passing any blame onto you where unjustified. It should also include meter readings, which will prevent you from paying for any energy usage from the previous tenant. 

Key Components of an Inventory & Check-In Report

It is important to include enough detail in a tenancy inventory report to cover all bases (or as many as possible). As a minimum, all the following components should be included in the report:

Property Address

Of course, having an accurate address on the report clears up any confusion should a dispute occur about a property!

Description of Property and Contents

Every room should be thoroughly inspected during the check-in process, with notes made about any contents that are included in the lease, the condition of the contents, and of the property itself. Comments should be made about the property’s furnishings and decor, with any defects recorded and evidenced.

Record of Fixtures, Fittings & Appliances

It is essential to have a record of everything that is included with the property rental and their condition. Fixtures include the boiler, carpets and flooring, kitchen and bathroom units, built in wardrobes etc. Fittings include furniture and free-standing appliances.

Photographic Evidence

Along with descriptions of the rooms in the property and any noticeable defects at check-in, it is vital to have photographic evidence to support this. Should a dispute occur, this photographic evidence will prove invaluable to reaching an agreement.

Utility Readings

Taking meter readings for electric, gas, and water, will ensure that the right person is paying any outstanding bills, and that tenants aren’t overpaying. This will in turn build trust from the tenant towards the landlord, and help prevent disputes. 

See Our Sample Inventory Check-In Report

Clarifying Responsibilities and Agreements

A key aspect of the check-in report is clearly outlining the responsibilities and agreements between the landlord and tenant. Tenant guidance should be provided by the agent or Landlord which states responsibilities during the tenancy and prior to the tenancy check-out report taking place, so the tenant knows what is expected of them right from the get-go.

Significance of Accuracy and Detail in Check-In Inventory Reports

The accuracy and detail of a check-in inventory report are paramount.

For this reason, unless you have vast experience in conducting property reports, it is recommended to utilise the services of a professional inventory clerk. Not only will a report carried out by a dedicated company be unbiased, it will also ensure all the information needed is included, and that enough detail is added. 

Having a comprehensive report carried out is worth its weight in gold in the case of a dispute occurring between tenants and landlords.

Addressing Tenant and Landlord Disputes

Building a positive landlord-tenant relationship is going to benefit both parties. However, it doesn’t always go as smoothly as you’d hope.

In the event of disputes between landlords and tenants, particularly regarding liability for damage, having a detailed inventory report to refer back to is crucial. It will often prevent disputes from being escalated, because there is clear documentation which shows evidence of the property’s condition at the start of the tenancy, as well as the responsibilities of each party. This should provide clarification about whether either party has broken the terms of the agreement. 

Why Choose Arnold Inventories as Your Trusted Partner?

Arnold Inventories offers professional and reliable inventory services for landlords. With our attention to detail, accuracy, and commitment to customer satisfaction, we ensure that landlords have the peace of mind they need.

We also offer flexible scheduling options and quick turnaround times, making the process seamless and hassle-free, taking the stress out of renting out your property.

Choose Arnold Inventories as your trusted partner for comprehensive and dependable inventory reporting.

Get Started Today

Contact Arnold Inventories today to schedule your Check-In Inventory Report, and get reassurance that the condition of your property has been thoroughly documented prior to a new tenant moving in.

Give our friendly team a call on 020 4579 9597, or fill out our online contact form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.