A professional and independent property inventory is one of the simplest ways to protect yourself as a landlord. It creates a clear and impartial record of your property at the start of a tenancy and gives you the evidence you need if anything changes later.

With the Renters’ Rights Act coming into force in May, that starting point will matter more than ever. More than 70 percent of UK landlords already use inventories and at Hello Neighbour we commission one for every property we manage because they form the foundation of a well run tenancy.

An inventory is not just something you keep for the end of a tenancy. It is the baseline you use throughout. It allows you to carry out mid tenancy inspections with confidence, track changes over time and deal with issues early rather than letting them build up. That makes tenancies smoother for both sides and reduces the risk of disputes at the end.

This guide explains what an inventory is, why it matters, what is included in a professional report and how Hello Neighbour manages the process for landlords.

What is a property inventory?

An inventory is a detailed written and photographic record of your property at the start of a tenancy. It covers walls, floors, ceilings and finishes, lists fixtures and fittings, records appliances and furniture and notes the level of cleanliness. Any existing wear or damage is clearly described so there is no uncertainty later.

A professional inventory is paired with a check in. The tenant receives the report from an independent inventory clerk and has seven days to review it and add comments before signing. This creates a shared and agreed record. At the end of the tenancy the check out report compares the condition of the property against that original baseline.

Why inventories are essential

Without a signed inventory it is very difficult to make a successful claim for damage or missing items. Deposit protection schemes such as DPS, TDS and MyDeposits require clear dated evidence before they award deductions and that evidence comes from an inventory.

Inventories also help prevent problems before they start. Tenants know exactly what condition the property should be kept in and landlords have an objective record they can refer to. This reduces misunderstandings and protects both sides.

They are also a practical management tool. When you carry out mid tenancy inspections you can use the original inventory as your reference point. That makes it easier to spot issues early and deal with them in a constructive way rather than waiting until the tenant moves out.

What is included in a professional inventory?

When you book an inventory with Hello Neighbour we use independent clerks so the report is impartial and reliable.

Every room is covered from walls and windows to sockets and built in furniture. Appliances are listed with make, model and condition. Wear is recorded in detail and supported by high resolution photographs. Cleanliness levels, meter readings and keys are also documented.

The result is a clear digital report that shows exactly what condition the property was in at the start of the tenancy.

How Hello Neighbour manages the process

We arrange the inventory shortly before the tenancy begins once the property is ready. The clerk inspects the home and produces a secure digital report with embedded photographs.

The tenant reviews and signs it online and we store the agreed copy for the duration of the tenancy so it is always available if it is needed later.

Check in confirms the starting position when keys are handed over. Check out compares the condition of the property against the original inventory. This gives a clear evidence based view of any changes.

Why inventories matter in disputes

When disputes arise adjudicators rely on evidence. Without an inventory even obvious damage can be challenged. With one, you have a signed independent record and before and after photographs to support your claim.

That makes disputes faster, fairer and easier to resolve, and helps protect both your property and your rental income.