The Importance of a Tenancy Check-in Report
Our check-in report service can save you a great deal of stress as a property owner and you'll benefit from enhanced legal protection should your tenant make any false claims against the condition of their accommodation.
The Difference Between an Inventory Report and a Check-in Report
Check in reports go hand-in-hand with inventory reports but are a different service altogether. An inventory report doesn't have the tenant present – it's simply a service where we document the condition of the building, any furniture contained within and any wear-and-tear that might be found within.
Check-in reports happen after the inventory report and have the tenant present. Our clerk will collect the property keys from the key holder and meet the new tenant on a pre arranged date & time. We then take care to guide the tenant through each area of the property and discuss the inventory, pointing out any new condition items, freshly painted surfaces or new flooring together with any existing defects. We also feel it is important at this stage to discuss with the tenant the basic issues that can arise at the time of Check Out, for example cleaning issues and expectations of Fair Wear & Tear.
A Check In Declaration is completed on site which serves to give an overall Schedule of Condition of all items in terms of cleanliness. Any issues with maintenance which require attention are also noted and separately communicated back to the agent/landlord. A record of keys handed over, permits and all meter readings are also recorded on the Declaration and the tenant signs this document which accompanies the inventory. This protects you legally should they later try to dispute the inventory report upon moving out.
Finally, both documents are sent to the agent/landlord and/or tenant.
We understand that moving home is a stressful time for tenants and our clerks strive to be as helpful as possible in all areas during the Check In process.
Check-in reports happen after the inventory report and have the tenant present. Our clerk will collect the property keys from the key holder and meet the new tenant on a pre arranged date & time. We then take care to guide the tenant through each area of the property and discuss the inventory, pointing out any new condition items, freshly painted surfaces or new flooring together with any existing defects. We also feel it is important at this stage to discuss with the tenant the basic issues that can arise at the time of Check Out, for example cleaning issues and expectations of Fair Wear & Tear.
A Check In Declaration is completed on site which serves to give an overall Schedule of Condition of all items in terms of cleanliness. Any issues with maintenance which require attention are also noted and separately communicated back to the agent/landlord. A record of keys handed over, permits and all meter readings are also recorded on the Declaration and the tenant signs this document which accompanies the inventory. This protects you legally should they later try to dispute the inventory report upon moving out.
Finally, both documents are sent to the agent/landlord and/or tenant.
We understand that moving home is a stressful time for tenants and our clerks strive to be as helpful as possible in all areas during the Check In process.
The Risks of Not Having a Tenancy Check-in Report
While an inventory report will provide you with some evidence of the building's condition prior to occupancy, a check-in report will substantially aid your case because you'll also have written confirmation from the tenant of the report being accurate. This proves invaluable should you need to partially or fully withhold a tenant's deposit.
Common issues a check-in report can protect you from:
Common issues a check-in report can protect you from:
- Tenants removing items from the property that belong to you
- Tenants improperly maintaining the property
- Unauthorised alterations to your property
More Information
Our clerks have a great deal of experience in assisting landlords, agents and housing trusts across London and Middlesex with check-ins and inventory reports. Find out more about how we work or download a sample Check-In Declaration form.
Would you like to find out how we can help protect your investment? Contact an advisor and we'll get back to you as quickly as possible.
Would you like to find out how we can help protect your investment? Contact an advisor and we'll get back to you as quickly as possible.
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