What is an Inventory and Check-In?
An inventory and check-in is an inspection of a rental property to document its condition and contents at the beginning of a tenancy. It is usually conducted by an independent inventory clerk and includes an inventory of contents and a schedule of condition report for the property.
Why is an Inventory and Check-In required?
An inventory and check-in is required to protect both the landlord and the tenant. It provides a clear record of the condition of the property and its contents at the beginning of the tenancy which can help to avoid disputes later on. It can also help landlords to identify any potential issues that may require attention and to make any necessary repairs or replacements before the start of the tenancy.
What will be checked during an Inventory and Check-In?
During an inventory and check-in, the following will be checked:
A detailed inventory of the contents of the property including furniture, fixtures, and fittings
A detailed schedule of condition report for the property, including walls, floors, ceilings, windows, doors, and appliances
The meter readings for gas, electricity, and water will be taken and recorded
Keys and locks will be checked and verified
Inventory and Check-In Checklist for Landlords and agents:
To ensure a smooth inventory and check-in it is important to prepare in advance. Here are some key points to keep in mind before the arrival of the inventory clerk:
- Any professional cleaning must be completed before the day of the inventory inspection
- Any building works, refurbishment, painting and decorating must be completed before the day of the inventory inspection
- Any equipment, appliances and furniture that will need to be included in the inventory report must be in place prior to the inspection date
- If access to the property is obtained via management keys, arrangement and exact location of the keys must be provided at least 48 hrs prior to the check- in
- If access is provided in person by an agent, landlord or landlord’s representative, contact details for the nominated person should be provided at least 48 hrs prior to the check-in
- Contact numbers for the prospective tenants or their representative must be provided at least 48 hrs prior to the check-in
- Full access to all rooms in the property should be provided prior to check-in with the tenant so that the clerk can draw up the inventory in preparation for the check-in
- Full access to any outside space that belongs to the property, including gardens, sheds, outbuildings, etc. must be provided
- The clerk will require the exact sets of keys that will be handed over to the tenants, so if master keys have been provided for the inspection, the clerk must be notified of this and arrangements for alternative keys must be made by the agent, landlord or landlord representative at least 48 hrs prior to the check-in
- The tenant must have signed their tenancy agreement before the check-in as they will be provided with full access to the property upon completion of the check-in process
- Exact location of gas, electricity and water meters must be provided to the clerk as readings will be taken on the day of the check-in
- When the check-in inspection is complete, the tenant will be required to sign the report
- Any animals, children must be safe and adequately supervised during the visit to maintain the safety of the clerk and others