Connells Lettings advocates independent inventories to avoid disputes

This follows a statement from the Association of Independent Inventory Clerks (AIIC) that ‘wear and tear’ to a property is the least understood area of the lettings process, and one which cause the most disputes when a tenancy ends.

According to the most recent annual review by the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS), 56 per cent of disputes between tenants and landlords concern cleaning of the property, 43 per cent relate to damage and 30 per cent to redecoration, while just 17 per cent focus on rent arrears.

These figures clearly demonstrate the potential for ambiguity when it comes to assessing fair wear and tear to rental homes.

“Here at Connells, we always recommend an independent inventory at the start of a tenancy to assess the true state and condition of the property before the tenancy starts and so reduce the chance of disputes later down the line,” says Connells lettings manager Christi Collins, based at the firm’s Wote Street base in Basingstoke.

“These latest figures highlight the potential for problems when it comes to assessing the wear and tear on a property at the end of a tenancy, but this can be avoided if all parties buy into a inventory which is prepared and provided by an third-party, impartial provider.”

Connells is urging landlords to get in touch with the Wote Street team, to discuss their property or property portfolio and how to maximise their property yield in the current rental market.

“We offer a wide range of services including full property management,” said Christi.

“By advocating and arranging services like independent inventories we ensure both landlords and tenants are protected, and ultimately create relationships which are successful and mutually beneficial to all parties.”

If you have a property to let and would like to speak to Connells Lettings about how the team can help, contact the branch on 01256 318 122 or email basingstokelet@connells.co.uk.