Are Landlords Required to Provide a Checkout Report in England?

When moving out of a rented property in England, understanding what documents your landlord must provide can protect your deposit and help avoid disputes. Many renters wonder if they are entitled to a checkout report, what it should contain, and how it relates to their rights under current UK rental law.

What Is a Checkout Report—and Why Does It Matter?

A checkout report is a document (often with photos) recording the property's condition when a tenant leaves. It is typically compared to the inventory or check-in report done at the start of your tenancy. This comparison is crucial for deciding if any deductions from your deposit are fair and accurate.

Are Landlords Legally Required to Provide a Checkout Report?

In England, there is no explicit legal requirement in the Housing Act 1988 for landlords to provide a checkout report at the end of a tenancy. However, most reputable landlords and agents will carry out a checkout inspection and produce a report, as this is best practice for resolving deposit issues and following the Tenancy Deposit Protection (TDP) scheme rules.

Without a checkout report, it may be harder for your landlord to justify any deductions from your deposit, and equally, more difficult for you to challenge them.

How Does This Affect Your Deposit?

Tenancy deposit schemes (like The DPS, mydeposits or TDS) require objective evidence if there's a dispute. Checkout reports are a key part of this evidence. If your landlord makes deductions, you can:

• Request to see the checkout report and any supporting evidence (like photos)
• Dispute any deductions you believe are unfair through your deposit protection scheme's resolution process

These schemes are backed by law within England. You can read more about your deposit rights directly from the UK Government’s official guide.

Which Forms Might Apply for Moving Out?

• Notice to Quit: If you wish to end your tenancy, you may need to serve notice. The official guidance on ending different tenancy types is available via the UK Government End a Tenancy resource (no fixed form, but requirements must be met as per your tenancy agreement).
• Deposit Return/Dispute Forms: If there’s a disagreement over deductions, you can use your deposit scheme’s dispute resolution service. For example, the DPS Dispute Process involves submitting evidence, such as the checkout report if available.

There is no official checkout report form number, as it’s not a statutory requirement—most are provided by agents or landlords using their own templates.

What If You Disagree With Your Landlord?

If you believe deposit deductions are unfair and your landlord isn't showing you a checkout report, you have options:

• Ask your landlord or agent for a copy of all inspection documentation
• If you’re not satisfied, use your deposit protection scheme’s free Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) service
• As a last resort, apply to your local county court using form N1 Claim Form to recover your deposit

Relevant Tribunal: First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)

In England, tenancy disputes (including deposit disagreements) are generally resolved using the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) or via your deposit scheme’s dispute service.

How to Protect Yourself—Action Steps for Renters

• Always complete your own inventory when you move in and out, with photos and notes
• Ask your landlord/agent for a copy of the checkout report immediately after your tenancy ends
• Challenge any deductions you consider unfair, providing all your own evidence
• Initiate a dispute with your Tenancy Deposit Scheme if necessary—guidance for tenants is available directly from each scheme’s website (see official advice)

Proactively requesting and reviewing a checkout report gives you a stronger position should any disputes arise.

1. Do landlords have to give a checkout report in England?
   No, landlords are not legally required to provide a checkout report, but it is best practice and commonly used for resolving deposit issues.
2. Can I see the checkout report if deductions are made?
   Yes, you have the right to request and see any evidence your landlord or agent uses for proposed deductions from your deposit.
3. What can I do if there’s a dispute about my deposit?
   You can use your tenancy deposit scheme’s dispute resolution service and also take your case to the county court if necessary.
4. Is there an official form for checkout reports?
   There is no government-issued form number for checkout reports; they are usually created by landlords or agents. Official forms do apply if you need to formally dispute a deposit deduction (e.g., N1 Claim Form).
5. Which tribunal handles renting disputes in England?
   The First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) deals with many residential tenancy disputes.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• There is no law in England requiring landlords to give a checkout report, but it is widely used and recommended.
• Checkout reports and inventories are key evidence in deposit disputes—always request copies and keep your own records.
• You have rights to challenge deductions through your deposit scheme and, if needed, the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Private Renting: Advice for Tenants (GOV.UK)
• Tenancy Deposit Protection - GOV.UK
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – GOV.UK
• Shelter England - Get Help

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1. Housing Act 1988
2. Tenancy Deposit Protection guidance
3. First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) official page
4. Form N1 - Make a claim

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