Check-Out

Check-Out Reports That Reduce Deposit Disputes

Once a tenant has officially vacated the property, our comprehensive Check-Out Inspection is meticulously conducted. Its primary purpose is to systematically identify and document any discrepancies or variances between the property's condition as recorded in the initial Inventory and Schedule of Condition at the start of the tenancy, and its state upon departure. This detailed comparison is vital for establishing a clear understanding of the property's condition post-tenancy.

Our professional check-out inspections offer an impartial and independent comparison against the original inventory report. This provides landlords and letting agents with definitive, objective evidence. This clear documentation is instrumental in supporting fair and justified deductions from the tenant's security deposit, ensuring that any costs associated with damages beyond normal wear and tear are accurately accounted for.

In the unfortunate event that a dispute arises, our meticulously prepared reports serve as invaluable evidence. They feature structured photographic documentation, which is routinely relied upon by deposit protection scheme adjudicators when making their final, binding decisions. This ensures that resolutions are based on factual observations, not assumptions.

Inventory Bee - Reasons for Agents

Why Agents Choose Inventory Bee for Check-Outs

Streamlined, reliable, and dispute-ready reporting.

Independent Third-Party Reporting

Objective assessments ensure impartiality and build trust.

Clear Photographic Evidence

Time-stamped images provide irrefutable proof for adjudication.

Fast 24–48 Hour Turnaround

Receive your reports quickly to expedite deposit settlements.

Wear & Tear Explained

Clear, understandable explanations differentiate fair wear from damages.

Deposit Scheme Structured Reports

Reports are formatted to meet the requirements of all major deposit schemes.

Deposit disputes are decided using Inventory and Check-Out reports as primary evidence.
Our Check-Out Process

How Our Check-Out Process Works

A seamless and thorough process to ensure accurate property condition reporting.

1. Clerk Attends After Tenants Vacate

Our professional clerk will visit the property immediately following the tenants' departure to initiate the inspection.

2. Property Compared Against Original Inventory

We meticulously compare the property's current condition against the detailed inventory provided at the start of the tenancy.

3. Photographic Evidence Recorded

Comprehensive photographic evidence is captured to document the condition of the property and its contents accurately.

4. Wear & Tear Assessed Independently

An impartial and expert assessment of fair wear and tear is conducted, distinguishing it from actual damage.

5. Report Delivered Within 24–48 Hours

You will receive your detailed inspection report promptly, typically within 24 to 48 hours of the completed inspection.

What are the most common disputes?

Cleaning

Tenants must return the property in the same condition as it was found, including the same level of cleanliness. The Inventory report will specify whether the property was cleaned to a domestic or professional standard. If the property is not returned in the same condition, tenants should be charged for any additional cleaning required.

If a professional clean was conducted at the start of the tenancy, the landlord must provide an invoice or receipt as evidence of this service. A domestic clean performed by the tenants would not be considered equivalent to a professional clean.


Mould/Condensation

Mould-related issues are the second most common source of disputes. Tenants often claim that mould results from underlying property problems, while it frequently stems from inadequate ventilation. For example, bathrooms typically have extractor fans that need to be left on long enough to remove moisture after showering.

If an extractor fan is not available, a window should be left open to let condensation escape. Additionally, drying clothes indoors without proper ventilation can cause moisture to accumulate on walls, eventually leading to mould growth.


Redecoration

Marks and stains on walls are generally considered 'wear and tear.' If walls and ceilings were freshly painted at the start of the tenancy and show numerous marks by the end, tenants may be liable for repainting, depending on the length of the tenancy.

However, if the walls and ceilings were already marked at the start and additional marks appear during the tenancy, you typically cannot charge tenants for repainting the entire area unless there is significant damage. In such cases, you may only charge a nominal amount or a contribution towards the redecoration.


Damage/Negligence

Tenants are responsible for maintaining the property and its fixtures and fittings throughout the tenancy. According to the contract, if damage or negligence is evident, tenants are liable for the cost of repair or replacement. However, betterment rules must be considered before charging tenants for such costs.

For example, if a carpet is damaged (e.g., burn mark or stain), tenants may only be responsible for a portion of the replacement cost. If the carpet was newly fitted before the tenancy and the tenants vacate after a 12-month lease, they may be liable for the full replacement cost, though the length of tenancy will also be considered in such cases.


Do you have a dispute that you need assistance with?

Get in touch for a consultation with our ARLA qualified specialists



Review Reports

The Inventory and Check-Out reports will be thoroughly analysed. Any discrepancies will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, and relevant documentation such as emails, invoices, and other records will be requested to evaluate the issues accurately. Additionally, any disrepairs that occurred during the tenancy will be considered, as they may be classified as wear and tear.

Damage Check

In the event that there are damages in the property, a contractor will be required to provide a quote for a repair as required. This will be used to determine costs for deduction. If there are cleaning commissions, these too would require cleaners to re-attend and only rectify the areas in question (not a full professional clean).

Contact Tenants

Tenants will be notified of any discrepancies or disrepairs identified by the inventory clerk that are deemed to be due to tenant negligence and will be charged against their deposit. Tenants will also be given the opportunity to provide comments or justifications if they believe that deductions should not be applied.

Finalise Deductions

Reaching a mutual agreement on the charges that will be made is a fundamental step in this process. It would be in the Landlord's best interest to be fair in the charges being made as to avoid claims going to dispute as you may find that the arbitrator may rule more in the favour of the Tenant if such claims are deemed to be unfair to the Tenant/s.

Inventory Bee: Your Premier Property Inventory Service!

Experience unmatched speed, coverage, and accuracy for your property needs.

Fast 24-48 Hour Delivery

Rapid turnaround for seamless tenancies.

Expert London Coverage

Professional services across all boroughs.

Proactive Dispute Reduction

High-quality evidence meeting strict standards.

Book Today: 07944 868 862

Email: info@inventorybee.co.uk

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Property Redress Scheme Inventory Bee is registered with the Property Redress Scheme.