Moving in soon? Here’s what to check in your inventory
Moving into a new property is always an exciting time, but it’s also a crucial moment to ensure that everything is in order—especially when it comes to the inventory. The inventory is a detailed list of the items in your rented property, including any furniture, fixtures, and fittings, as well as their condition. Checking this document carefully can help avoid misunderstandings with your landlord or letting agent later on. Here’s what you should focus on when going through your inventory.

Check the condition of the property
First, ensure that the condition of the property is accurately noted. Check walls, floors, windows, and doors for any existing damage such as scratches, stains, or marks. If these issues aren’t already listed, make sure to add them. Documenting these details will protect you from being held responsible for any damage that was there before you moved in. Take photos or videos of any areas of concern and keep a copy for yourself.

Inspect furniture and appliances
Next, pay attention to the furniture and appliances provided by the landlord. Make sure all items listed are present, including things like chairs, tables, beds, and kitchen appliances. Inspect each piece for any visible wear or damage, and ensure everything is in working order. This is especially important for appliances like fridges, cookers, and washing machines. If anything is broken or missing, let your landlord or agent know immediately to avoid future disputes.

Check safety equipment
Don’t forget about safety equipment. Check that smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers are all in place and functional. These are important for your safety, and it’s essential that they’re accounted for in the inventory.

Note cleanliness and hygiene standards
Lastly, ensure that any cleanliness and hygiene standards are noted. Check for any cleanliness issues in the kitchen, bathroom, and other living spaces. If there are areas that need attention, notify your landlord right away.

Protect yourself from future disputes
By thoroughly checking the inventory, you’re protecting yourself from any future disputes. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help make your move-in process as smooth as possible.

Is rent negotiation still a thing in 2025?
Rent negotiation has long been a part of the renting process, but as the rental market evolves, many wonder if it’s still relevant in 2025. With fluctuating demand, changing legislation, and the rise of online platforms, understanding whether rent negotiation is still an option is crucial for both tenants and landlords.

The role of local market conditions in rent negotiation
In 2025, rent negotiation is certainly still a possibility, but its success largely depends on the local market conditions. In areas where demand is high, especially in popular cities or regions with limited housing supply, landlords may be less inclined to negotiate, as they know they can find tenants willing to meet the asking price. However, in areas with more available properties or where demand is lower, tenants may have more room to negotiate, especially if they’re prepared to commit to a longer lease or offer something appealing, such as a higher upfront deposit.

How tenants can leverage negotiation tactics
For tenants, negotiating rent can also be influenced by personal circumstances. For example, if you’re moving into a property that’s been on the market for a while or if the landlord is eager to find a reliable tenant quickly, you may be able to secure a better deal. If you’re willing to sign a longer lease, pay a larger deposit, or agree to take on minor repairs, this can be a good bargaining chip in your negotiations.

Landlord considerations in rent negotiation
On the other hand, landlords have their own set of considerations. Rising maintenance costs, property tax changes, and market uncertainty might make them more open to negotiating rent, particularly if they’re keen to secure a stable tenant for a longer-term lease. Conversely, some landlords may be hesitant to lower rent due to rising property values or increasing demand.

Success of rent negotiation in 2025
While rent negotiation is still possible in 2025, success will depend on market conditions, the property in question, and the willingness of both parties to compromise. Understanding the dynamics of your local market can give you an advantage, whether you’re a tenant or a landlord.

If you're considering renting or negotiating your current rent, get in touch with us today for advice and guidance on your options.

 

How to split bills fairly in a shared house
Living in a shared house can offer a great balance of affordability and community, but one area that often causes confusion or tension is splitting the bills. Whether you’re sharing with friends or housemates, ensuring the costs are divided fairly is key to maintaining harmony. This guide is for lettings tenants looking to navigate the process of bill sharing without the stress.

Start with clear communication
The first step in splitting bills fairly is clear communication. It’s essential to discuss how you want to split the costs before you move in, rather than leaving it to chance later on. While the most straightforward method is to divide everything equally, this may not always be fair if some housemates use more of certain utilities. For example, one person might spend more time in the shower or have higher electricity usage due to work habits. A more accurate approach might involve discussing your individual usage and adjusting the split accordingly.

Consider payment methods and systems
Another important factor to consider is the method of payment. Many shared houses use a joint account to manage bills, where everyone contributes a set amount each month. This ensures that payments are made on time, and no one person bears the full burden. Alternatively, if your house doesn’t have a joint account, one person could manage the payments and everyone else reimburses them. In this case, it’s essential to keep receipts or a record of payments for transparency.

Adjusting for varying usage
In some cases, there might be different rates for certain utilities. For example, if one housemate works from home full-time, they may be using more energy for heating or internet. You can also agree on a tiered system, where larger contributors to a particular bill pay a bit more for that service. This ensures fairness, especially in houses where different lifestyles or work patterns impact utility consumption.

Review the arrangement regularly
Finally, to avoid any confusion, it’s wise to set a regular review period to reassess the fairness of the split. This ensures that everyone is happy with the arrangement, especially if there’s a change in circumstances, such as a new housemate joining or a change in work patterns.

If you need help managing shared living arrangements or have questions about your rental rights, contact us today for advice. We’re here to help you make the most of your living situation and ensure everything runs smoothly in your shared house.

What is an inventory report and why it protects everyone

An inventory report is a detailed list of the items and condition of a property when a tenant moves in. It typically includes everything from furniture and appliances to the condition of walls, floors, and fixtures. This document serves as a record of the property’s state at the start of the tenancy, and is usually completed by the landlord or a property agent in the presence of the tenant. Both parties will sign off on the report, agreeing that it accurately reflects the condition of the property.

How it protects landlords

For landlords, an inventory report acts as a form of protection for their property. It provides a clear record of the property’s condition before the tenant moves in, allowing the landlord to reference it at the end of the tenancy. If there are any damages beyond general wear and tear, the inventory report ensures that the tenant is held accountable for the cost of repairs. Without such documentation, it can be difficult for the landlord to prove that any damage occurred during the tenancy, which could result in disputes over the deposit.

How it protects tenants

An inventory report is equally beneficial for tenants. It protects them from being unfairly charged for damage they did not cause. If the property already has damage or wear and tear when the tenant moves in, the inventory report ensures they are not held responsible for it. It provides a baseline, so tenants can be confident that they are only liable for issues that arise during their stay. This can help avoid unnecessary disputes when it comes time to return the property.

The importance of a thorough report

A thorough inventory report ensures transparency and fairness for both parties, providing peace of mind. Both landlords and tenants should take time to carefully review the document before signing, ensuring that it accurately reflects the property’s condition.

If you need help with creating or reviewing an inventory report, contact us today for expert advice and guidance.