Property Industry Articles and News

Landlord and tenant industry related articles and news

Welcome to the Stencel Inventories Articles & News page — your helpful corner for tips, info and advice on all things property inventory. Whether you're a landlord, letting agent, or tenant in London, we've got you covered with easy-to-follow articles, industry insights, and practical info on check-ins, check-outs, mid-term inspections, and more. Dive in and stay informed — we’re here to help make your rental journey smoother and more secure.

People going through the inventory report

What evidence may I require, as a landlord, in the event of a dispute?

Deposit disputes can be stressful — but they don’t have to be. At Stencel Inventories, we help take the tension out of end-of-tenancy disagreements by providing clear, unbiased inventory reports. Our check-in, mid-term, and check-out inspections include detailed notes and photos to show exactly how the property was handed over and returned. This helps landlords and tenants avoid confusion and makes it easier to resolve any issues fairly. Whether it’s cleaning, damage, or missing items, having the right evidence on hand makes all the difference.

How to assess damages at the end of a tenancy and a formula to help calculate potential costs.

Wondering what counts as damage when a tenant moves out? This page breaks it down in simple terms. Stencel Inventories explains the difference between normal wear and tear and actual damage — like stained carpets, broken fixtures, or missing items. It shows how a professional inventory report can help clarify responsibility and prevent disputes. With detailed descriptions and clear photos, landlords and agents have the evidence they need to claim deductions fairly, while tenants get a better understanding of what’s expected. It’s all about being fair and transparent at the end of a tenancy

Why is an independently compiled inventory and schedule of condition report preferred?

An inventory isn’t just a list of items—it’s your protection when renting out or moving into a property. This article explains why a thorough inventory report is so important for landlords, tenants, and letting agents alike. It covers how having detailed records of the property’s condition helps avoid disputes and ensures both sides are on the same page. Whether it’s damage, missing items, or simple wear and tear, an inventory makes everything clearer and more transparent. It’s all about setting the right expectations from the start and keeping things smooth at the end of a tenancy

Source: AIIC

What is considered as fair wear and tear?

In this article, you are given an overview of what The AIIC ( Association of Independent Inventory Clerks) considers as standard fair wear and tear. These guidelines are followed by most inventory companies and independent inventory clerks.

What is considered as fair wear and tear when renting

Governments vision on decent homes standard

Source: Gov UK

Decent homes standard - A fairer private rented sector

The Department of Levelling up, Housing and Communities has published the government’s long-term vision for a private rented sector (PRS) that is fit for the 21st century and delivers a better deal for tenants.

Decent home standard PDF brochures

Source: Gov UK

Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (Amendment) Regulation 2022

The UK Government has updated the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide alarm Regulations in the private rented sector. New regulations came into force on the 1st October 2022

Full smoke and carbon monoxide alarm regulation

Source: Gov UK

What is the tenancy deposit scheme?

As of April 2007, all landlords and letting agents in England and Wales must ensure that the assured shorthold tenancy deposit has been put into one of the government approved deposit schemes. The landlord has 30 days to provide the tenant with all relevant information and proof, that the deposit has been secured in a scheme.

All about the TDS

Source: Shelter England

Right to rent checks

Before any tenancy can start in England, certain checks about the prospective tenant need to be carried out by either the landlord or the letting agency, who is acting on behalf of the landlord. There are however some exceptions, which can be found via the below link

Right to rent checklist

Source: Gov UK & Shelter England

The landlord`s safety and repairs responsibilities

The landlord, whether your property is privately rented, council owned or rented through housing associations, is responsible for most repairs and all safety aspects - which includes electric, fire and gas checks . It is advised to check your contract for extra responsibilities.

Safety responsibilities

Responsibility for repairs

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