A recent survey by Property Inventory Base reveals that landlords are often left to cover property damage costs, even when tenants are at fault. According to the research, a lack of proper inventory processes means only 10% of tenants are being held accountable for damages, leaving landlords to foot the bill in 90% of cases.

The issue stems from the absence of thorough end-of-tenancy inspections. If damage is uncovered that wasn’t present during the initial inspection, landlords can claim repair costs from the tenant’s deposit. However, Siân Hemming-Metcalfe, operations director at Property Inventory Base, emphasizes that without a proper inventory system in place, landlords are left vulnerable. They may suspect the tenant is responsible for the damage but can’t prove it, resulting in them having to bear the cost.

The survey also highlights that 56% of tenancies lack secondary inspections, and only 19% of tenants report being involved in situations where final inspections reveal unlisted issues. Hemming-Metcalfe stresses that failing to conduct inventories increases landlords’ financial risk unnecessarily, especially given the ease of modern app-based inventory tools. A good inventory practice serves as a crucial defence for landlords, providing proof that tenants agreed to the condition of the property at both the start and end of the tenancy.