Inventory

He_can't_sing

I have applied to rent a flat and the agent says I must pay for an inventory. The company they use is really expensive but they won't let me use anybody else. Is this allowed?

G_M

The landlord (or his agent) can impose any conditions he wishes for granting you a tenancy.

You can accept or decline (or negotiate).

Personally I think that as inventories primarily benefit the landlord, the landlord should pay, but that does not help you.

Of course, it may well be that the agent is charging the landlord also for the inventory. That would be contrary to the code of practice of The Property Ombudsman (5n), but you are unlikely to find out till later (if at all).

(I've not checked the other 2 schemes letting agents can join:
* Ombudsman Services Property
* Property Redress Scheme )

Tyler119

Could you ask that you pay half and the landlord pays half for an independent inventory. I must say, inventories, when done correct, protect both parties. They should be detailed and included date stamped photographs of each room, exterior etc.

robatwork

He_can't_sing wrote: »

I have applied to rent a flat and the agent says I must pay for an inventory. The company they use is really expensive but they won't let me use anybody else. Is this allowed?

I've heard it all now. The inventory mainly protects the landlord and is really something he should organise. When I rented I did my own inventory too, and took pictures of everything. Inside ovens and fridges - the lot.

I would suggest you're going to have problems with this landlord through your tenancy.

martindow

The sooner the proposed law on stopping these sort of charges comes into force the better.

You probably are over a barrel with the agent - you either pay their fees or they will let it to someone else - but no harm is done trying to negotiate.

When the inventory is done you need to check for any discrepancies and get all existing damage noted and the inventory amended before you sign it.

theartfullodger

He_can't_sing wrote: »

I have applied to rent a flat and the agent says I must pay for an inventory. The company they use is really expensive but they won't let me use anybody else. Is this allowed?

Yes it's legal. They won;t let you rent without it.

Suggest (if you want the place) you go ahead, also do your own photos and inventory anyway for your own protection and then if still p*ss*d off, take agent to small-claims (after LBA'ing them..) over this unfair charge. It should be simple enough to get comparative prices for inventories... Expect an s21 for your troubles.


IIRC if tenant pays for check-in inventory, landlord must pay for check-out. What does your agreement say?

Yes, such fees have been unlawful in Scotland since at least 1984: Come on England, catch up!

You could of course set some condition you insist upon before signing (e.g. repaint the place, change CH boiler..) but you'd not get anywhere unless LL/agent agree... you see the problem?