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Inventories | Information for Landlords | Information for Tenants

Inventories

Information for Landlords

Landlords are required to hold a deposit in a Tenancy Deposit Scheme as part of a tenancy agreement. This can be used to protect the Landlord in situations where the tenant does not leave the property in the same condition as at the start of the rental agreement. The deposit can be used to off-set any damages that have occurred beyond 'fair wear and tear'.

'Fair wear and tear' has been defined through legal processes as arising from 'reaonsable use of the premises by the tenant and the ordinary operation of natural forces (ie the passage of time)'. Hence, any damages that do not fall into this category could be classed as beyond fair wear and tear.

Having an agreed inventory in place helps landlords, as well as tenants, to swiftly resolve any disputes about damages and return of deposits. The inventory can be used in conjunction with the check out report to support this process.

We will note on the inventory where furniture is observed to be labelled as meeting the Furniture Flammability Regulations. However, this should not be interpreted as meaning the item complies with the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations Act (amended 1993). It is merely a record that the item had a label either the same or similar to that detailed in the guide to the regulations at the time the inventory was compiled. These regulations apply to the following domestic furniture items which contain upholstery: beds, headboards, mattresses, sofa-beds, nursery furniture, garden furniture which can be used indoors, furniture in new caravans, scatter cushions, seat pads and pillows and loose and stretch covers for furniture. The Regulations do not apply to sleeping bags, bed-clothes (including duvets), loose covers for mattresses, pillowcases, curtains and carpets.

Please note that safety checks on gas and electric appliances need to be carried out by appropriately qualified gas engineers or electricians.