Protect Your Property... “Most Inventories are inadequate to stand up in court” - AIIC, January 2012 Landlords who value their property will invest in a professional inventory and will use an independent inventory clerk. Since April 6 2007, if you are a landlord taking deposits under assured shorthold tenancies, then it is the law that these deposits must be protected under a Government-backed scheme.  This new legislation limits your ability, as a landlord, to use deposit money in the event of damage, cleanliness or missing items.  If you are setting about claiming for damage to your property then the burden of proof is on you, the landlord, to show that your property was in a certain condition when your tenant first moved in. This is where good documentation is so important and the upside of having a neutral, professional inventory cannot be overstressed. Stop a minute and think. You, as a landlord, take deposits as an insurance policy against, among other things, damage to your property. If this is the case then what is the point in going to all this trouble and then not protecting yourself in the event of a claim? Taking a deposit without an inventory is like driving a car without a tax disc: you may think you’re properly insured but you’re not! 1. The deposit is registered with a Government- backed scheme (for a clear summary, go to the Residential Landlords Association web site) 2. You provide the necessary information to your tenant within 30 days of receiving their deposit money 3. You have a comprehensive, professional inventory performed on your property before your tenant moves in 4. You perform a proper check in procedure when your tenant moves in. This involves getting your tenant to agree to all aspects of the inventory   Taking Deposits? Then Make Sure... links | disclaimer | privacy | terms & conditions | apip certificate We understand the processes involved. We can give you good advice and support and we’re available at short notice. So for your own peace of mind, give us a call and we’d be happy to talk to you. Our number is 07872 523 739.  Highfield House, Scrations Lane, Lostwithiel, Cornwall PL22 0DP  t: 07872 523 739  e: office@inventoryguardian.co.uk ticking the right boxes | Home | | | | Inventory Visits Prices Landlords Check In/Out Letting Agents |