PROPERTY INVENTORY GUIDES
What Should a Check-Out Report Include?
A professional Check-Out report provides a clear record of a property’s condition and cleanliness at the end of a tenancy. Where an original Inventory or Check-In report is available, the property can be compared against the opening record, with relevant changes supported by written observations and photographs.
REPORT AT A GLANCE
What does a Check-Out report record?
A Check-Out records how the property is found at the end of the tenancy and, where suitable opening documentation is available, highlights relevant differences from the original record.
Condition & cleanliness
Records the visible condition and cleanliness of the property, including relevant changes, damage, marks or deterioration observed at the inspection.
Contents & fixtures
Records relevant differences involving fixtures, fittings and contents, including items that may be missing, damaged, moved or otherwise changed from the opening record.
COMPARING THE RECORDS
How the opening report is used at Check-Out
Where an original Inventory or Check-In report is available, the clerk can compare the property’s condition and cleanliness at Check-Out against the opening record. Relevant differences are noted in the report and supported by photographs where appropriate.
This comparison helps distinguish changes that have occurred during the tenancy from conditions already recorded at the start. The Check-Out report provides evidence for review, but it does not determine final liability, deposit deductions or the outcome of any dispute.
USING THE OPENING RECORD
What can be compared at Check-Out?
The level of comparison depends on the opening documentation provided and what can be clearly observed at the property at the time of inspection.
With an Inventory or Check-In report
The clerk can compare the property against the opening record, noting relevant changes in condition, cleanliness, fixtures, fittings and contents.
Without suitable opening documentation
A Check-Out can still record the property as found at the end of the tenancy, but it may not be possible to establish whether particular conditions or changes arose during the tenancy.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
What else can be recorded at Check-Out?
Depending on the instruction and what is accessible at the property, a Check-Out can also record practical information relevant to the end of the tenancy.
Meter readings
Available meter readings will be recorded at the time of the inspection, providing a clear reference at the end of the tenancy.
Smoke and CO alarms
Where applicable and accessible, relevant smoke and carbon monoxide alarm information will be noted as part of the inspection.
Keys returned
Keys, fobs and other access items presented at Check-Out can be recorded and compared with the available opening information.
Access and attendance
Relevant access arrangements and attendance information can be recorded where this forms part of the instructed Check-Out.
AFTER THE INSPECTION
How is a Check-Out report used?
The completed Check-Out report provides a documented record of the property at the end of the tenancy. Landlords and letting agents can use it alongside the opening Inventory or Check-In report when reviewing changes in condition, cleanliness, contents and other recorded details.
Where appropriate, the report may identify observations relevant to fair wear and tear or possible responsibility. However, the report does not make the final decision on liability, deposit deductions or the outcome of any dispute.
Need a professional Check-Out report?
Book a professional Check-Out with Dock Inventories for a clear, independent record of the property at the end of the tenancy, supported by detailed observations and photographs.
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