FAQs
Q. What is an Inventory?
An Inventory is a detailed list of fixtures, fittings and Landlord items found within a rental property-this includes listing all decor(colours of paintwork, woodwork, flooring) and appliances-including brands and model numbers, furniture, crockery/kitchen items etc.
Q. What is a Schedule of Conditions
The Schedule of Conditions is the detailed recording of the conditions of the Inventory items. A record of the cleanliness of the property and the general items is also recorded.
Q. What is a Check-In?
The ‘Check-In’ is the term often used to describe the time when the Tenant moves in to the property, the keys are handed over and meters read. At this time the Inventory will also be completed and the condition of the property at that particular time recorded.
Q. Are photographs included?
A selection of photographs are taken of every property, to include meters and keys etc and to highlight any specific areas that may benefit from illustration further to the written Inventory document
Q. Are the meter readings included on the Inventory document?
Meter readings are, where practicable recorded. The Inventory Clerk will be in possession of a number of keys(FB Keys/TBar keys/gas meter keys etc) which allow access to most meter cupboards. It is recommended that Landlords inform Agents of any difficult to locate meters or codes etc for secure cupboards. The ultimate responsibility for reading of the meters rests with the Tenant/Landlord. In the event the meters cannot be found on the day of the Inspection this will be recorded on the Report and the Tenant/Landlord should contact the relevant utility company to arrange for readings to be taken.
Q. What is fair wear & tear?
Fair wear & tear is generally considered to be a measure of the natural wear and decline of decor, fixtures and furnishing etc based upon normal day to day use. Various factors need to be taken into consideration:
a. The length of the Tenancy
b. The age and style of the property at the start of the Tenancy
c. The profile of the Tenants
d. The quality of the fixtures, furnishing and fittings
ARLA Agents have guidelines and formulas which are followed when calculating deposit returns. The Agent will advise the Tenant and Landlord as to any formulas used
Q. What is a Check-Out?
1. The Check-Out Inspection takes place on the final day of the Tenancy term or on a date and time as close as possible to the last day of the Tenancy(where practicable)
2. At the time of the Check-Out Inspection the Tenant should have completed removing all personal items and all cleaning should be completed.
3. At the conclusion of the Check-Out Inspection the Tenant should return all keys belonging to the property and leave the flat for the last time. The Inventory Clerk will return the keys to the relevant Agent or any other third party as instructed.
4. At the Check-Out Inspection the original Inventory & Schedule of Conditions will be checked in full. Any differences and missing items are recorded and the main issues highlighted to the Tenant. Photographs of any damages and general photographs will also be taken at this time.
5. It is not a necessity that the Landlord/Tenant attends the Check-Out Inspection, although if a Tenant is in attendance it does allow them to provide answers to any queries eg if items cannot be found or damages are noted.
6. At the end of the Check-Out Inspection the meters are read(where accessible), the keys counted and checked and the Tenants forwarding address recorded. A handwritten schedule is also completed highlighting the main points.
7. The Check-Out Report is then typed up and returned to the Landlord/Agent/Tenant normally within 48/72 hours. At this point the Tenant/Landlord/Agent will discuss the Report with a view to reaching an agreement on the return of the Tenants deposit with any possible deductions highlighted.