One of the most difficult situations landlords and letting agents face at the end of a tenancy is dealing with  damage that has built up over time due to neglect , rather than a single incident. From leaking appliances to mould growth and broken fixtures, many of these issues could have been resolved early — if they had been reported. As inventory clerks, we see the consequences of unreported issues every day. This article explains why damage caused by neglect is so contentio

Few things cause more frustration at check-out than  missing items . From remote controls and keys to furniture and garden equipment, disputes often arise when one party insists an item was never provided — and the other insists it was. As inventory clerks, this is one of the clearest examples of why a  detailed, independent inventory is non-negotiable . Why Missing Item Disputes Are So Common Missing items disputes usually happen because: The original inventory lacked detail

The Hidden Financial Risks of Skipping Professional Inventories Skipping a professional inventory might seem like a cost-saving decision — but in reality, it’s one of the  most expensive mistakes a landlord or letting agent can make . Time and time again, we see landlords lose hundreds — sometimes thousands — of pounds simply because they lacked the right documentation when a tenancy ended. Here’s why missing inventories cost far more than they save. The True Cost of “Doing W

A well-prepared inventory is your first line of defence against disputes, misunderstandings and unexpected costs. As inventory clerks working across East Sussex and Kent, we’ve seen what works — and what doesn’t. Here are our top best-practice tips to ensure every tenancy starts on the right foot. 1. Arrange the Inventory Before the Tenant Moves In An inventory should always be completed  when the property is empty , not after the tenant has begun moving items in. This avoids

The lettings industry has rapidly modernised in recent years, and digital inventories are now the standard for professional inventory providers. As a company specialising in high-quality, photographic digital inventories, we’ve seen how going paperless benefits landlords, letting agents and tenants. Here’s why switching to digital inventories is one of the smartest moves the property sector can make. 1. Faster Turnaround & Instant Access Digital check-ins and check-outs allow

The end of a tenancy is one of the most challenging stages for landlords and letting agents. Tenants want their deposit back quickly, while landlords want to ensure the property is returned in good condition. This combination often creates tension and, without proper evidence, can lead to disputes. At The Property Inventory Co., we’ve carried out thousands of check-out inspections across East Sussex and Kent. Over time, we’ve identified common check-out issues—many of which a

Some tenancies require more detail than a standard inventory report offers. Pets, smokers, furnished properties, student lets, and high-traffic rentals all benefit from  inventory addendums . What Is an Addendum? An addendum is an extra section added to an inventory report that focuses on a specific area of risk. It provides clarity, documentation, and protection for both landlord and tenant. When to Use Addendums Pets in the property Smoking restrictions Short-term rentals H

Words are powerful, but photographs are irrefutable. When it comes to property inventories, high-quality photographs can make the difference between a smooth tenancy transition and a heated deposit dispute. Here’s why professional photography should be at the core of every inventory. Why Photos Matter So Much When tenants move out, disputes typically arise because memories fade. Tenants may genuinely believe something was already damaged — or simply hope the landlord can’t pr

The UK rental landscape is changing fast, and with the introduction of the new  Renters’ Rights Bill , letting agents and landlords must adapt quickly. One of the most important steps in staying compliant and protected is ensuring that every tenancy begins with a  professional, independent inventory report . In this post, we’ll look at how the new Bill affects property management, why inventories are now more essential than ever, and how letting agents can use them to navigat

More landlords than ever are allowing pets — but this comes with extra wear and tear risks. Independent inventories are key to managing these properties effectively and fairly. Our clerks take extra care to document flooring, doors, skirting boards, and soft furnishings that may be affected by pets. At check-out, we look for pet-related odours, stains or damage, ensuring the evidence is clear and impartial. At The Property Inventory Company, we help landlords and agents embra

Pet-friendly rentals are in demand, but they can also increase wear and tear. At The Property Inventory Company, we help landlords protect their properties while remaining fair to tenants. What We Record Flooring and carpet condition. Odours or stains. Scratches on doors or furniture. Evidence of pet ownership if not declared. Why It Helps A thorough record ensures landlords are covered for pet-related damage and tenants aren’t blamed unfairly. Takeaway:  With accurate, impar

HMO and student properties require special attention. With multiple tenants sharing facilities, accuracy and detail are crucial. Our HMO Inventory Approach Individual room reports noting keys, furniture, and condition. Shared area assessments for kitchens, lounges, and bathrooms. Clear photographic evidence for accountability. Why It Matters Protects landlords from collective damage disputes. Ensures tenants are only responsible for their space. Simplifies deposit resolution.

The check-in report is the foundation for a successful tenancy. It sets expectations and defines what “clean and undamaged” means from day one. What Happens at Check-In Our clerks: Record every detail of the property’s condition. Test smoke alarms and note key sets. Ensure tenants sign to confirm agreement with the report. Why It Matters Without a thorough check-in, it’s impossible to compare the property’s condition at check-out. Takeaway:  A professional check-in from TPIC

At The Property Inventory Company, we don’t just provide detailed inventory reports — we also offer professional end of tenancy and pre-tenancy cleans  to help landlords and agents maintain property standards and reduce disputes. Why Cleaning and Inventories Go Hand in Hand A clean property sets the benchmark for the tenancy. When a property is professionally cleaned before move-in, it becomes easier to assess cleanliness at the end of the tenancy. Our cleaning team and clerk

We’ve already covered why gardens matter in inventories — but in winter, outdoor areas need even more attention. At The Property Inventory Company, we know that seasonal changes can make a big difference when it comes to disputes. Why Winter Gardens Cause Disputes Weather damage:  Storms can bring down fences, damage sheds, or uproot plants. Maintenance:  Tenants may neglect gardens in colder months. Safety risks:  Wet leaves, moss, and icy patios can become hazards. What Cle

Windows might seem straightforward, but they are a crucial part of any inventory. At The Property Inventory Company, we carefully document their condition, safety, and security features. Why Windows Matter in Inventories Security:  Faulty or broken locks compromise safety. Energy efficiency:  Damaged seals or broken glazing can increase heating costs. Tenant safety:  Loose panes or faulty restrictors pose risks, especially in upper floors. What Clerks Record Our inspections i

Flooring and carpets see the heaviest use in a rental property, which makes them a common source of disagreement at check-out. At The Property Inventory Company, we know how to distinguish  fair wear and tear  from damage. What We Look For General wear (flattened carpet pile, minor scuffing). Stains, burns, or tears. Loose or lifting floor coverings. Cracked tiles, warped laminate, or water damage. How We Record Flooring Our clerks: Take wide-angle photos to show overall cond

Most rental properties include  white goods and appliances  such as fridges, ovens, and washing machines. These items are among the most...

Inventories at the start and end of tenancies are vital — but what about in between? That’s where  mid-term inspections  come in. At The...

With electric vehicles becoming more common, EV charging points are appearing in more rental properties. As inventory clerks, we now...