How To Carry Out a Check-Out Inspection
Overview
What this guide covers
This guide explains how to carry out a check-out inspection at the end of a tenancy. It covers preparing for the inspection, comparing condition against the check-in inventory, identifying legitimate deductions, and the process for returning or disputing the deposit.
Who it is for
Landlords and letting agents carrying out check-out inspections at the end of residential tenancies in England.
What this guide does not cover
- –Routine mid-tenancy inspections (see the How to Carry Out a Property Inspection guide)
- –Deposit disputes at adjudication (see the deposit scheme guidance)
Before you start, you will need:
- ·The original check-in inventory with photographs
- ·The tenancy agreement
- ·Keys returned by the tenant
- ·A check-out report template
When To Use This Guide
Use this guide when:
- ✓The tenancy has ended and the tenant has vacated
- ✓You need to assess the condition of the property before returning the deposit
- ✓You are considering making deductions from the deposit
Do not use this guide if:
- ✗The tenant is still in occupation — you cannot carry out a check-out inspection until the tenancy has ended and the tenant has vacated