Landlord Inventory Checklist: What to Record Before a Tenant Moves In
A landlord inventory checklist protects both you and your tenant. It records what is in the property, the condition of each item, and any existing damage. Without one, deposit disputes at move-out become a case of one word against another.
What is a landlord inventory?
An inventory is a detailed list of contents and condition at the start of a tenancy. It usually includes furniture, appliances, fixtures, flooring, windows and any outdoor items. The best inventories also include dated photos or videos.
General tips before you start
- Inspect the property when it is empty and clean
- Use natural light and take photos from multiple angles
- Note the make, model and serial number of appliances
- Record existing scratches, stains or damage
- Ask the tenant to review and sign the inventory
Room-by-room inventory checklist
Entrance and hallway
- Walls, ceilings and floors
- Doors, locks, keys and doorbells
- Light switches and fixtures
- Storage cupboards
Living room
- Sofa, chairs, tables and shelves
- TV, remote controls and cables
- Curtains, blinds and rails
- Carpets or flooring condition
Kitchen
- Oven, hob, extractor, microwave, fridge, freezer, dishwasher
- Sink, taps, worktops and cupboards
- Kettle, toaster and any small appliances
- Plates, cutlery and cookware if included
Bedrooms
- Bed frame, mattress and wardrobe
- Drawers, bedside tables and mirrors
- Curtains, blinds and carpets
- Sockets and light fittings
Bathroom
- Toilet, sink, bath, shower and screen
- Taps, tiles, sealant and grout
- Towel rails, mirrors and cabinets
- Ventilation and heating
Outdoor areas
- Garden, lawn, fences and gates
- Shed or garage contents
- Outdoor furniture and bins
Track appliance warranties
Appliances are expensive to replace. Record the purchase date, warranty length and retailer for each item. Set reminders a month before warranties expire so you can decide whether to renew or replace.
Store your inventory where you can find it
A checklist saved on a phone or laptop is easy to misplace. ProptiHub lets you attach inventory records, photos and warranties to each property so everything is in one place when the tenancy ends.