5 Things To Look For In A Property Inventory Company - Bright Inventories

By Author: Bright Inventories
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If you are searching for a property inventory company you may find all of the options confusing, especially if you have never rented out a property before.
As a landlord in the UK, ensuring your property is well-documented at the start and end of each tenancy is crucial. Engaging an independent property inventory company can save you time, mitigate disputes, and protect your investment. But with many companies to choose from, how do you select the right one? Here are five key things to look for when choosing a property inventory company.
1 - Accreditation and Professionalism
The first thing to consider is whether the property inventory company is accredited by a professional body. In the UK, reputable property inventory companies often belong to associations such as the Association of Independent Inventory Clerks (AIIC) or the Inventory Clerks Association (ICA). These organisations set high standards for their members, ensuring they adhere to best practices and provide reliable services.
Professionalism is also paramount. From the first contact to the delivery of the final report, the company should communicate ...
... clearly, meet deadlines, and present themselves in a professional manner. This professionalism reflects their reliability and dedication to providing quality service.
Bright Inventories is registered with the AIIC and we comply with all their rules and standards.
2 - Experience and Expertise
Experience matters when it comes to property inventories. An experienced inventory clerk will have a keen eye for detail and a thorough understanding of what needs to be documented. They will be familiar with various property types and potential areas of concern.
Ask potential companies about their experience in the industry. How long have they been operating? Do they have experience with properties similar to yours? A seasoned company will likely provide more accurate and comprehensive reports, reducing the risk of disputes.
Our clerks are all very experienced with some having worked for the business for over ten years!
3 - Comprehensive and Clear Reports
The primary purpose of hiring a property inventory company is to obtain a detailed and unbiased report of the property's condition. These reports should be comprehensive, covering all aspects of the property, including fixtures, fittings, furniture, and cleanliness.
Clarity is equally important. The report should be easy to understand, with clear descriptions and accompanying photographs. Check for sample reports on the company’s website or request one. This will give you an idea of the quality and thoroughness of their documentation.
Bright Inventories’ reports have been assessed by the TDS and approved for use in all domestic properties. With a full set of HED photography, clear and accurate descriptions and an easy to follow format our reports are the gold standard in the industry.
4 - Use of Technology
In today’s digital age, the use of technology can significantly enhance the efficiency and accuracy of property inventories. Look for companies that utilise the latest inventory software and digital tools. These technologies can facilitate real-time reporting, high-quality photographic evidence, and secure data storage.
A property inventory company that embraces technology is likely to offer a more streamlined and reliable service, making it easier for you to access and manage your inventory reports.
At Bright Inventories we use InventoryBase as our inventory management software. This provides you with some wonderful advantages such as;
• Instant reporting - depending upon connectivity, your report could be with you before you get the keys back
• HD photography - super-clear imagery that can be expanded and zoomed when viewed online
• Digital delivery - you can choose to print out the report or send it direct to your tenant
• Digital signatures - you can choose to get your tenant to sign online which means less work for you.
• Awesome checkouts - comparing the original inventory with the current state and with comparison photos
5 - Fair Pricing and Transparent Policies
Cost is always a consideration, but it should not be the sole deciding factor. Instead, focus on the value you receive for your investment. Compare quotes from multiple companies, but also pay attention to what is included in the price. Some companies might offer lower rates but charge extra for additional services.
Transparency is key. The company should provide a clear breakdown of their pricing and any additional fees. Additionally, their terms and conditions should be straightforward, outlining what happens in case of a dispute or if you need to reschedule an appointment.
The price we quote you is the price you pay - we don’t add things on later.
Conclusion
Choosing the right property inventory company is an important decision for any landlord. By looking for accreditation, experience, comprehensive reports, the use of technology, and fair pricing, you can find a company that will help protect your property and maintain a positive relationship with your tenants.
Investing time in selecting the right inventory company will pay off in the long run, providing peace of mind and ensuring that your property is in good hands.
Call us now on 0333 090 6033 or fill in the form and book your comprehensive Property inventory services.