What does an Inventory Clerk Do?

Letting business can be very risky at times without putting proper safeguards. However, when a landlord takes time in managing the property or when the landlord chooses a good letting agent to manage the property, the risk can be lessened.




There are many options a landlord can safeguard his/her property such as getting landlord insurance, getting an experienced property manager, tenant referencing, inspections, inventory reports, and getting an inventory clerk.


This article will discuss what does an inventory clerk do.


What is an Inventory Clerk?

The property inventory clerk receives professional training regarding the creation of detailed inspections of letting property. It is an independent body that inspects and records the condition of the property and the contents of the property. The inventory clerk creates a detailed account of the property itself such as the condition of the wall, floors, ceiling, windows, fixture, furniture, etc. Most importantly an independent inventory clerk provides an impartial report to the tenant and the landlord. This makes sure that there is a fair inspection that has been taken.

 

What does in Inventory Clerk do before an inspection?

Before the inspection takes place, usually the inventory clerk will talk to the landlord or the letting agent. This allows for both parties to have the property check-in the best time possible and when to get the keys. The inventory clerk will usually ask who the keys should be given to after the property inspection has been done.


The inventory clerk will request a copy of the previous inspection done at the property. And using the previous report, the inventory clerk will be able to familiarize himself with the property before the visitation takes place.

 

What does the Inventory Clerk do during the inspection?

On the day of the inspection, the inventory clerk will arrive in the property to be inspected. The clerk will take photos of the exterior of the property such as the front door, the path from the gate to the property, etc.


The inventory clerk will test all alarms in the property and will collect meter readings at the property.


Inspection of the Property

The inventory clerk will check the cleanliness and the condition of the property.

The clerk will take a record of the color, material, condition, and cleanliness of each item in the property. The following will be included but may not be limited to:

Doors

Walls

Floor

Fixtures

Fittings

Windows

Furniture

White goods

Outdoor spaces such as garden


Also, the property inventory clerk will test the items such as handles, locks, gates, blinds, doorbells, light switches, taps, flushes, etc.


At the same time, the property inventory clerk will take photographs of their findings. Then the property clerk will make a second round around the property to make sure that no missed items in the inventory.


What happens at the end of the inspection?

Towards the end of the property inspection, the clerk will create a schedule of the condition of the property. The schedule of the condition is the summary of the findings of the inventory clerk.

 

-        If it is a check-in inventory, the clerk may now meet the tenant who is moving into the property, expresses the findings of the property, and will provide the schedule of condition where the tenants will sign that they agree with the condition of the property. Then, the keys will be handed over to the new tenants.

-        If it is an inventory or checkout, the clerk locks up the property and leaves the property. Then gives back the keys to the landlord or letting agent.


After Inspection

The findings are typed up and referenced to the photographs which feature the findings of the inventory clerk.


Hamilton James is a property inventory specialist based in south London. If you are looking for an inventory clerk, Hamilton James Inventory Specialist is here to help you with your inventory needs. Visit our website www.hamilton-james.co.uk to know more.