Although less than 1% of all tenancy deposits are disputed, when they do happen, they may develop into a costly nightmare for everyone involved. Many potential squabbles might be avoided if the correct information is supplied at the proper times to everyone. Retaining audit trails of any modifications made to the property, both by the landlord and tenant, can significantly boost the chance of a dispute being resolved quickly and minimize any ill feelings.
This must happen from the start of the tenancy until the day it ends. Make sure the new tenant understands what is required right away. It will benefit both you and them by doing so.
Here’s what must be done at the beginning and end of a tenancy:
When the new tenant checks in
It’s crucial to have a thorough report about the property. This goes beyond a complete inventory and cleanliness. Make notes of when the furniture was last cleaned professionally and be honest about any marks or scratches on the fabric so that they can be noted later.
Also, highlight fresh items down to the date they were put up so that people know what they’re getting. Making a note of different scents might be useful, but smells can be subjective and varied, and it will be difficult to avoid a new one. Always back everything you’ve said up with as much documentation and photographs as possible.
When the tenant checks out
This is when taking an inventory from the beginning will pay off. As you look over the property, keep referring to it and if you played a role in its creation, you should be familiar with what to search for. Keep a record of everything, just as before, and compare your new document to the old one once you’ve completed your research.
Also, if it looks clean, touch it! Stickiness and hair from pets are difficult to detect but can be time-consuming to remove.
What to do if you think a deposit deduction is needed
If the property is not returned in an acceptable condition, you may be required to deduct from the deposit. This procedure can lead to disputes and conflict between landlord and tenant, so double-check that you have solid proof before deciding. State why the landlord believes a deduction is required with clear, logical reasoning.
Furthermore, if the landlord believes the tenant has violated a term of the lease, he or she must point that out. If the tenant decides to dispute the claim, it will have to be handled by an adjudicator.
When it comes to property checks and inventories for our landlords, part of Mistoria Estate Agents‘ landlord service is to do so. We conduct comprehensive check-in and check-out inspections to verify that there is proper paperwork, records, and photographs at the beginning and conclusion of each tenancy. Whilst it may appear to be a distasteful task, we recognize how crucial it is for both the landlord and the tenant to be clear and consistent when it comes time to discuss the condition of a home.
If you own a rental property and want assistance and advice on how to run a successful tenancy while also ensuring that you fulfill all legal requirements and stay up to date on guidance and legislation, please contact our knowledgeable staff. We handle 1000 properties and 3000 tenancies in the private and student rental market, so we can assist you with any aspect of the landlord.