When Should You Book Professional Property Inventory Services During a Tenancy?

Booking professional inventory services is one of the most important steps a landlord or letting agent can take to protect a property. However, an inventory is not a one-off task. It plays a role at several key stages of a tenancy, from before a tenant moves in to after they move out, and even during the tenancy itself.

Understanding when to book expert inventory services helps prevent disputes, protects deposits and ensures everyone involved has a clear and fair record of a property’s condition.

Below is a practical guide to when professional inventory services should be carried out and why each stage matters.

Before the Tenant Moves In: Inventory and Check-In

The most critical time to book professional property inventory services is before a tenant moves into the property. This is when the inventory and check-in report should be completed.

At this stage, the property is empty, clean and prepared for the next tenants. Our professional inventory clerks can accurately document the condition of the property, fixtures, fittings and any contents in detail. 

A professional inventory and check-in report should include:

• Detailed written descriptions of every room

• High-quality, date-stamped photographs

• Meter readings

• Key handover details

• Cleanliness and condition notes

Companies like Attic Inventory carry out professional inventory services before move-in to ensure reports are thorough, unbiased and completed in line with best practice. Our reports are delivered within 48 hours, allowing tenancies to start without unnecessary delays.

At the Start of the Tenancy: Tenant Sign-Off

Once the inventory and check-in report is completed, tenants should be given the opportunity to review and sign it, usually within the first few days of moving in.

This step is often overlooked, but it is essential. Tenant sign-off shows mutual agreement on the condition of the property at the start of the tenancy. If a tenant raises any comments or amendments, these can be addressed early rather than becoming an issue months later.

During the Tenancy: Mid-Term or Interim Inspections

Professional property inventory services are not only useful at the start and end of a tenancy. Mid-term inspections, sometimes called interim inspections, are equally important.

These inspections are typically carried out every three to six months and serve several purposes:

• Checking the general condition of the property

• Identifying maintenance issues early

• Ensuring the property is being looked after as agreed

• Highlighting unauthorised changes or damage

Mid-term inspections are not about catching tenants out. They are about protecting the property and preventing small issues from becoming costly problems.

Attic Inventory carries out interim inspections across London, providing clear reports that give landlords and agents peace of mind that their asset is being properly maintained throughout the tenancy.

For Longer Tenancies: Ongoing Documentation

In long-term tenancies, professional property inventory services become even more valuable. Over time, it can be difficult to separate fair wear and tear from damage without proper documentation.

Regular inspections create a documented history of the property’s condition. This can be invaluable if a dispute arises later, as it demonstrates how and when changes occurred.

If you’re a landlord with multiple properties or manage portfolios, using professional inventory services consistently across all tenancies ensures uniform reporting and reduces risk across the board.

At the End of the Tenancy: Check-Out Report

The check-out report is one of the most important stages for professional property inventory services. It is carried out after the tenant has vacated the property and compares the current condition against the original inventory and check-in report.

A professional check-out report will:

• Assess cleanliness and condition room by room

• Highlight changes, damage, or missing items

• Distinguish between damage and fair wear and tear

• Provide clear photographic evidence

This report forms the basis for any deposit deductions and is often relied upon by deposit protection schemes and adjudicators.

Turnkey check-out services, such as those provided by Attic Inventory, help ensure the process is fair, transparent, and properly documented, reducing the likelihood of disputes escalating.

For New Builds: Snagging Inspections Before or During a Tenancy

Professional property inventory services are also valuable for new build properties. Snagging inspections are best carried out before a tenant moves in or shortly after handover from the developer.

These inspections identify defects, unfinished work, or issues that should be rectified by the contractor. Addressing snags early avoids confusion later and ensures tenants are not unfairly blamed for issues that were present from the start.

Short Notice and Urgent Bookings

In the real world, tenancies do not always run to plan. Last-minute move-ins, delayed completions, and short void periods are common, especially in London.

Professional property inventory services should be flexible enough to accommodate short notice bookings without compromising quality. Attic Inventory offers short notice appointments and works six days a week, helping landlords and agents keep tenancies moving smoothly.

Using an experienced, independent provider like Attic Inventory ensures reports are accurate, unbiased, and legally sound. With fast turnaround times, detailed photographic evidence, and years of experience across Greater London, professional inventory services become a simple but powerful part of effective property management.

Simply contact us today to book our inventory services in London.