What is a Check-Out ?
A Check-Out is carried out by a property inventory clerk or agent to check the condition of a property at the end of a tenancy agreement. The clerk or agent will compare the condition of the property to the inventory and schedule of conditions created at the start of the tenancy.
Why is a Check-Out required?
A Check-Out is required to determine if the property has been returned to the landlord in the same condition as at the start of the tenancy. The check-out report will be used to determine if any deductions should be made from the tenant’s deposit to cover any damages or cleaning required.
What will be checked during a Check-Out Visit?
During a Check-Out Inspection the clerk or agent will check the following:
The general condition of the property including walls, floors, ceilings and fixtures and fittings to ensure they are in the same condition as at the start of the tenancy.
Any cleaning required, including carpets, ovens, bathrooms and kitchen appliances
Any damage or wear and tear to the property including any items on the inventory
Any keys and access equipment provided at the start of the tenancy
Check-Out Inspection Checklist for Tenants:
- To ensure a smooth Check-Out Inspection it is important to prepare in advance. Here are some key points to note before the arrival of the inventory clerk:
- Make sure the property is clean and tidy, and all personal belongings have been removed.
- Make sure any repairs or maintenance issues have been addressed, and any damage has been repaired.
- Return any keys and access equipment provided at the start of the tenancy.
- Be present for the Check-Out inspection to address any questions or concerns from the inventory clerk or agent.
- Provide a meter reading for gas, electricity and water to ensure accurate billing.
- Advise the inventory clerk or agent of any changes made to the property during the tenancy.
- Full access to all rooms in the property is required.
- Full access to any outside space that belongs to the property, including gardens, sheds, outbuildings, etc. must be provided.
- Items listed on the check-in inventory must be returned to their respective rooms, including any stored items, upon termination of the tenancy.
- The property must be left as clean as it was found at the start of the tenancy.
- If professional cleaning has been carried out at the start of a tenancy, professional cleaning should also be done at the end of tenancy.
- If the tenant is responsible for garden maintenance, any waste matter must be removed, and the garden brought back to a standard similar to the start of the tenancy.
- Beds should not be made up so that the mattresses, duvets, and linen etc. can be inspected.
- Any items listed on the check-in inventory that have been broken or misplaced must be replaced with a similar item.
- When the check-out inspection is complete, the tenant will be required to return all keys and will have no further access to the property
- Any animals or children must be safe and adequately supervised during the visit to maintain the safety of the clerk and others