Tenants: How to limit deductions from your deposit at the end of the tenancy

Every Tenant would like to make sure that at the end of the tenancy they won’t be blamed and charged for damage that was there at the start of the tenancy. That is why in the last few years more and more Tenants take the initiative to arrange an independent professional Inventory, Check-In or Check-Out to ensure their deposit is protected.

Some facts:

An Inventory is a detailed description of all fixtures, fittings and furniture and their condition on the day you move in. It includes doors, ceilings, walls, floors, windows as well as furniture and any small items (towels, cutlery, pans, cups) provided by your Landlord.

Often you also pay for these services. Most Tenancy Agreements have a provision that the Tenants pay for Inventory or for a Check-Out.

The Inventory is one of the most important documents related to your tenancy and it is essential in deciding how much of your deposit you get back at the end of your tenancy.

Before signing the Inventory the Tenants have the right to check it thoroughly and add additional notes.

How to limit deductions from your deposit at the end of the tenancy

1. Make sure you receive a detailed and up-to-date Inventory and a comprehensive Check-in report at the start of your tenancy.

2. On receiving the Inventory make sure you check it thoroughly and make additional notes on the Inventory (if needed) before you sign and return it to the Agent.

3. Read the Guidance notes provided as soon as you move in, so you can ensure you keep the property in a desirable state during your tenancy and limit any deductions from your deposit at the end of it due to your actions.

4. When you are moving out, ask for a Check-Out done by independent Inventory Clerk and be present if possible so you can provide information on any changes to the property if needed.

Why choose Abbey Inventories?

Abbey Inventories are independent Inventory Clerks. We produce very detailed, fair and impartial reports that objectively describe the condition of the property and its contents. We give the Tenants detailed Guidance notes and Check-Out notes on how keep the property in a desirable state during the tenancy and to help you to limit any deductions from your deposit.