Landlord Inventory Duties at Tenancy Start (England)

Tenants starting a new tenancy in England should understand how the landlord's inventory and check‑in duties protect both parties. A clear, dated inventory with photos helps renters challenge unfair deposit deductions and proves the property's condition at move‑in. This guide explains what landlords should record, what official documents you should receive, and practical steps tenants can take when checking the property, documenting damage, and communicating problems. It also covers timescales, deposit protection basics and where to find official forms and support if disagreements arise. Written plainly for renters, the advice aims to help you record evidence, ask for missing paperwork, and use official complaint routes if needed.

What landlords should record at move-in

Landlords in England should prepare a full inventory and schedule of condition at the tenancy start. This protects both the tenant and landlord by noting existing damage, appliance condition and meter readings. Tenants should receive key documents and be invited to a joint check‑in where possible.

• Create a detailed written inventory with dated photos and video evidence.
• Provide safety certificates and key documents before or at move-in, for example the gas safety record and the EPC.
• Protect any tenancy deposit and supply the prescribed deposit information within 30 days of receipt.
• Offer a joint check-in inspection and agree the inventory with the tenant present to reduce later disputes.

How to check the inventory as a tenant

When you move in, read the inventory carefully, walk every room with proofs such as photos and a notes log, and sign or record any disagreements in writing. If you disagree, send an email or letter describing the differences and attach your dated photos.

• Photograph any existing damage with timestamps and keep originals safe.
• Make a short written note of disagreements and ask the landlord to amend the inventory.
• Return a signed copy if you agree, or keep a signed copy with your comments as evidence.

Prescribed documents and official forms

At the start of a tenancy in England landlords must provide or make available certain documents. The GOV.UK "How to rent" checklist explains essential tenant information and is commonly provided at tenancy start^[1]. Landlords who take a deposit must protect it and provide the tenant with prescribed deposit information; guidance is on GOV.UK about tenancy deposit protection schemes^[2]. If informal resolution fails, tenants can apply to the First‑tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for residential disputes^[3].

Another practical document is Form 6A (a Section 21 notice) used for notice to quit by landlords where relevant; tenants should also be aware of their statutory rights under the Housing Act 1988^[4] and the Rent Act 1977 where applicable^[5].

FAQ

Who should create the inventory?

Usually the landlord or their agent prepares the inventory, but tenants should check and agree it at move-in.

What happens if the landlord did not provide an inventory?

If there is no inventory, a tenant should document the property condition immediately and keep evidence to protect the deposit.

How long does a tenant have to challenge an inventory?

Challenge the inventory as soon as possible; many tenancy deposit schemes and courts view early documentation more favourably.

How-To

1. Check the inventory and return a signed copy or note disagreements within seven days.
2. Take timestamped photos and save them in cloud or secure storage.
3. Request any missing paperwork such as the gas safety record, EPC or deposit prescribed information from the landlord.
4. Contact your tenancy deposit scheme or local advice agency if the landlord fails to protect a deposit or provide documents.
5. Apply to the First‑tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) if you cannot resolve the dispute through the scheme or directly.

Key Takeaways

• A clear, dated inventory with photos protects tenants against unfair deposit deductions.
• Get any disagreements recorded quickly and keep copies of all communications and evidence.
• If a deposit is not protected, you can use official redress routes including the deposit scheme and Tribunal.

Help and Support / Resources

• How to rent: the checklist for renting in England - GOV.UK
• Tenancy deposit protection - GOV.UK
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - GOV.UK

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1. [1] How to rent: the checklist for renting in England - GOV.UK
2. [2] Tenancy deposit protection - GOV.UK
3. [3] First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) - GOV.UK
4. [4] Housing Act 1988 - legislation.gov.uk
5. [5] Rent Act 1977 - legislation.gov.uk