Belvoir Sheffield, the leading letting agents in Sheffield is warning landlords that three words can make or break deposit disputes between landlords and tenants…. inventory, inventory, inventory.
“Just as ‘location’ is a key word in buying a property, ‘inventory’ is a key word in renting it, says Rick Flay owner of Belvoir Sheffield, which specialises in providing flats to rent in Sheffield.
Disagreements over the condition of the property at the end of a tenancy, is a major reason for disputes arising over how much of the tenants deposit should be returned, because landlords often deduct the cost of cleaning, replacing or repairing household items, furniture or furnishings that tenants say were like that when they moved in.
“A good quality inventory with clear photographs which has been agreed, signed and dated by both the landlord and tenant can overcome all arguments about the condition of a property and its contents.
“When you consider that according to current Land Registry data, the average property price in Britain is now £225, 000, it makes a lot of sense for landlords to protect their assets with a good quality inventory. Professional lettings agents such as Belvoir Sheffield are very experienced in carrying out a thorough and detailed inventory report, providing a solid assurance to landlords that their interests are well protected.”, added Rick, whose lettings agency helps those wanting to rent property in Sheffield.
There are some other ways to ensure that relationships run smoothly however.
When a tenancy starts, the landlord and tenant should each keep jointly signed tenancy agreements that set out terms, conditions, obligations and responsibilities on both sides. If the property is not fully managed and the landlord does not have an agent, they should both be present at go through the property, discuss any concerns and agree the inventory.
Tenants should also meet up with the landlords or their agents for any periodic inspections during the tenancy at least two or three times a year to ensure that there are not any serious problems with the property.
Landlords should keep relevant invoices, bills, work records and household receipts as evidence of expenditure, whilst tenants should keep copies of household bills, since they should not be arranging for any works or alterations to the rented property without first consulting the landlord or agent.
When the tenancy is over, both parties should be present at the ‘check-out’ to discuss any problems and to reach an agreement over any deductions from the deposit.
Rick added: “Accidents can happen, but so does normal wear and tear. If both landlords and tenants stay realistic then many quarrels can be settled before there is any need for a dispute. In fact, there is another factor in all of his- it’s called ‘communication’. Done properly it can save an awful lot of trouble.”
Belvoir Lettings Agency in Sheffield is the One Stop Specialists for Lettings including Property Management, Tenant Find, Investment and Wealth Management Advice, Fit-outs and Renovations, Furniture Packs, Investment Property Insurances and Buy To Let Mortgages
