How to Prepare Your Property for a New Tenancy – A Landlord’s Checklist

A Step-by-Step Guide to Get Your Property Move-In Ready

Preparing a rental property for a new tenant isn’t just about handing over the keys — it’s about setting the right tone for the tenancy, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and protecting your investment.

At The Property Inventory Company, we regularly work with landlords across East Sussex and Kent who want to make sure their properties are fully prepared before the inventory and check-in. Here’s our professional checklist to help you get started.

✅ 1. Carry Out a Deep Clean

A professionally cleaned property is one of the most important first impressions a landlord can make.

• Clean all rooms thoroughly (especially kitchens and bathrooms)

• Wash windows inside and out

• Clean carpets and flooring

• Remove any cobwebs, marks, or dust buildup

• Ensure bins are empty and the exterior is tidy

💡 Top Tip: Provide proof of a professional clean — this sets a clear standard for tenants to meet at check-out.

🔧 2. Complete All Repairs

Before a tenant moves in, address any outstanding maintenance issues:

• Fix dripping taps or faulty appliances

• Touch up scuffs, peeling paint, or damaged woodwork

• Replace broken tiles or cracked fixtures

• Ensure locks, handles, and windows work properly

Repairs left unresolved at move-in can lead to disputes or tenant complaints later on.

🔥 3. Conduct All Safety Checks

Safety is not just best practice — it’s a legal requirement. Make sure your property complies with current regulations by checking:

• Smoke alarms on each floor

• Carbon monoxide alarms in every room with a solid fuel-burning appliance

• Gas Safety Certificate (required annually)

• Electrical safety (EICR report every 5 years)

• Fire safety for furnished properties (check furniture meets standards)

Keep all certificates accessible and ready for the tenant if requested.

🪑 4. Check Fixtures, Furnishings & Inventory Items

If the property is furnished or part-furnished, confirm everything is present, functional, and clean:

• Mattresses, curtains, wardrobes, and appliances

• Light bulbs, switches, and sockets

• Kitchen items if included (cutlery, pans, utensils, etc.)

• All keys (front door, windows, mailbox, etc.)

This will also make your inventory report much more accurate and useful later.

📷 5. Book a Professional Inventory & Check-In Report

This is where we come in. A professionally prepared inventory and check-in report ensures that the property’s condition is fully documented before the tenancy begins.

Our reports include:

• Clear, high-resolution photos

• Detailed notes of condition

• Meter readings

• Key registration

• Digital delivery (PDF) — printable if needed

🛡️ This step protects both landlords and tenants and greatly reduces the likelihood of disputes at check-out.

📦 6. Provide a Welcome Pack (Optional, But Helpful)

Consider leaving a small welcome pack or simple instructions for things like:

• Rubbish collection days

• Boiler instructions

• Wi-Fi code (if included)

• Contact numbers for emergencies

Small touches go a long way in encouraging a respectful and positive tenancy.

🏁 Ready to Let?

A well-prepared property leads to:

• Happier tenants

• Fewer complaints

• Stronger check-in documentation

• Smoother deposit return processes

📅 Book Your Inventory Today

Let us help you start your next tenancy the right way.

Book a professional inventory or check-in Or get in touch with us for advice or availability

The Property Inventory Company is here to make your lettings process smoother, safer, and more professional — from check-in to check-out.