Date Published 26 February 2016
It is most important that an inventory of contents and schedule of condition be prepared in order to avoid misunderstanding or dispute at the end of a tenancy. Some landlords do not feel the need to have an up to date inventory in place but without such safeguards it will be impossible for the landlord to prove any loss, damage, or significant deterioration of the property or contents. It is also advisable for the inventory to be prepared by an independent company rather than by your own letting agent in order to avoid any conflict of interest - your letting agent could be seen to be bias towards the landlord which could weaken any claims by the landlord for dilapidations against the property at the end of the tenancy. Where possible photographs should be taken and included with the inventory and schedule of condition to aid clarity of condition.
