What Tenants Should Check in a Property Inventory Before Moving In

When moving into a new rental property in the UK, one of the most important steps you’ll face is the property inventory check-in. A property inventory is a detailed record of the home’s condition and contents at the start of your tenancy. While landlords often use it to protect themselves, it’s equally vital for tenants.

If you don’t pay attention to the inventory, you could risk losing part of your deposit at the end of the tenancy. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly what to check in a property inventory before moving in – and how to protect your rights as a tenant.

Tip: Always ask for a written inventory and review it carefully. To make the process easier, you can also use our free property inventory template to double-check what your landlord provides.

Why Property Inventories Matter for Tenants

For tenants, an inventory provides:

Proof of condition → avoids being blamed for pre-existing damage.
Fair treatment → ensures you only pay for actual damage, not wear and tear.
Deposit protection → strong evidence in disputes with landlords.
Transparency → builds trust between tenant and landlord.

Without a proper inventory, tenants often lose out in disputes handled by tenancy deposit schemes.

What Tenants Should Check in a Property Inventory

Here’s a step-by-step checklist of what you need to look for during the move-in process:

1. General Condition of the Property

Walls, ceilings, and paintwork for cracks, stains, or marks
Floors, carpets, tiles, or wooden surfaces for damage or wear
Windows, locks, and blinds for proper function and condition

2. Furniture and Furnishings

Sofas, chairs, and beds → check for stains, tears, or broken parts
Tables, wardrobes, and cabinets → ensure they’re sturdy and undamaged
Curtains, cushions, and other soft furnishings → note any signs of wear

3. Appliances and Utilities

Kitchen appliances (fridge, oven, washing machine) → test they work
Boiler and heating system → confirm they’re functional
Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors → test batteries
Meter readings for gas, water, and electricity

4. Bathrooms

Check taps, showers, and toilets for leaks or damage
Look at tiles, grout, and sealant for mould or cracks
Confirm extractor fans are working

5. Outside Areas

Garden, fences, or patio → note condition at move-in
Garages, sheds, or parking areas → check access and security

6. Cleanliness

Ensure the property is clean before you move in.
Take photos if carpets, ovens, or bathrooms aren’t up to standard.

Practical Tips for Tenants During Inventory

Always be present → Walk through with your landlord or agent.
Take your own photos and videos → Keep them as backup evidence.
Check small details → Lightbulbs, keys, handles, and sockets.
Ask for corrections → If something is missing or incorrect, request an update before signing.
Keep a signed copy → Make sure both you and your landlord keep identical, signed versions.

Common Mistakes Tenants Should Avoid

Signing the inventory without reviewing carefully.
Forgetting to check behind furniture or inside cupboards.
Not noting meter readings.
Failing to keep your own photographic evidence.
Assuming the landlord will fix problems later without documenting them first.

Final Thoughts

A property inventory isn’t just for landlords, it’s one of the best protections tenants have against unfair deposit deductions. By reviewing every detail carefully, taking your own photos, and keeping a signed copy, you’ll be in a much stronger position at the end of your tenancy.